Motorists frequenting trailheads and campgrounds on Casper Mountain are facing an unconventional mechanical hazard: marmots. According to wildlife officials with the Wyoming Game & Fish Department, the small mammals are increasingly seeking shelter in vehicle engine bays, leading to damages and costly repairs.

Marmot Invasion

Game & Fish wildlife biologist Kylie Sinclair explained that marmots are known to crawl into vehicles through their undercarriages, wheel wells, and engine bays, and are capable of squeezing through tight spaces. Sinclair said marmots like crawling into vehicles because they see the spaces as a warm, elevated, and safe place to find shelter.

Once inside the cars, the marmots can do significant damage. They really like to chew on wires, especially in newer vehicles, Sinclair warned. Some of that wiring has soy-based coverings on them, which is an attractant for them. When they start to chew on those wires, it can cause serious issues in vehicles.

Game & Fish PIO Janet Milek added that mother marmots sometimes find refuge with their young in cars as well. To prevent marmot invasions, Sinclair recommended checking the car before departing, as the creatures are most likely to be found under the hood.

Several deterrents can be used to ward off the critters, including spraying peppermint essential oil around the vehicle, mothball cakes, an Epsom salt solution, or fox or other animal urine. However, if marmots do work their way into a person’s car, Milek advised against calling the department for help, as marmots are considered non-game wildlife, and it can often take several hours to coax a marmot out of a car.

Instead, people are encouraged to coax or prod them out with a stick or pole, Sinclair said. However, she also advised that the animals can bite, so people should keep their distance or wear protective coverings.

Original reporting: Oil City News (Casper WY) — read the source article.