Neighbors: the Olympic Marmot

December 28, 2022 / 5:00 am

caption: Washington state is home to three different species of marmot: the Olympic marmot, the hoary marmot, and the yellow-bellied marmot (pictured).

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Washington state is known for its variety of flora and fauna. But when it comes to public adoration, it seems like one local animal has been a little jilted — the Olympic marmot. It's ironic, considering the fuzzy rodent was officially declared a state symbol in 2009. But what makes the marmot so worthy of a government distinction?

Soundside producer Noel Gasca introduces us to a scientist and a citizen activist who tell us why, and what the process of getting state recognition for the Olympic marmot looked like.

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Noel Gasca
General Assignment Reporter

Noel is a general assignment reporter for KUOW, covering everything from city hall to pickleball. Prior to joining the newsroom, Noel worked as a producer for KUOW’s midday show Soundside. Noel has also worked as an online editor and producer with KUOW’s web team, and she’s also a proud graduate of KUOW’s RadioActive program.
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