October 9, 2018
Washington, D.C. -- Today, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced that it will waive environmental laws in order to construct gates between sections of border barriers in South Texas' Rio Grande Valley.
Save the Marmots
Save the Marmots
Marmots are one of the largest members of the squirrel family. They can be two feet in length and weigh up to 11 pounds. Their large body size is an adaptation to the cold, high elevation sites in which they live. Marmots have reddish-brown fur and a yellow belly, from which they get their name. They are related to woodchucks and groundhogs in other parts of the country.
A marmot's day consists of morning and evening feedings, while they spend the middle of the day and nights hidden in their burrows.
About Marmots
Marmots are omnivores and eat grasses, flowers, insects and even bird eggs when available. While feeding out in the open, one marmot stands as a sentinel and whistles sharply when danger is near.
Read MoreYellow-bellied marmots live in colonies of 10-20 individuals.
History & etymology
Marmots have been known since antiquity. Research by the French ethnologist Michel Peissel claimed the story of the "Gold-digging ant" reported by the Ancient Greek historian Herodotus, who lived in the fifth century BCE, was founded on the golden Himalayan marmot of the Deosai Plateau and the habit of local tribes such as the Brokpa to collect the gold dust excavated from their burrows.
Read MoreFind out everything about marmots.
Marmot licks GoPro
This Marmot would like to give you a kiss for helping to save its home!
How hard to realize that every camp of men or beast has this glorious starry firmament for a roof! In such places standing alone on the mountain-top it is easy to realize that whatever special nests we make - leaves and moss like the marmots and birds, or tents or piled stone - we all dwell in a house of one room - the world with the firmament for its roof - and are sailing the celestial spaces without leaving any track.
John Muir
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Press Releases
June 19, 2018
Mission, TX-- Today, the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security passed an appropriations bill that includes $1.6 billion for border walls and increased funding for Border Patrol. If passed through Congress, the appropriations…
September 20, 2017
Ajo, AZ: The International Sonoran Desert Alliance will hold its 14th annual International Day of Peace celebration at the Ajo Plaza. The day will feature an after-school festival, parade, dancing and entertainment--all in celebration of youth and…