Visitors to national parks in the American West are reporting a rise in disruptive behavior by marmots, a species of large ground squirrel. Reports from hikers indicate that these animals have become increasingly bold, leading to incidents involving the theft of personal items, such as shoes, and the intentional sabotage of vehicles.

In one specific incident documented in Sequoia National Park, a hiker reported waking from a nap to find a marmot licking his ear. These encounters suggest a shift in animal behavior, potentially linked to human interaction or food conditioning within park boundaries. While marmots are typically shy, their current behavior is causing significant frustration and concern for those attempting to enjoy the wilderness. The reports highlight the ongoing challenge of managing wildlife-human interactions in protected areas, where the animals' proximity to human campsites and parking areas has led to these unconventional and sometimes intrusive behaviors.