Rescuers Returned Two Marmots to Sierra Nevada
The animals traveled 200 miles in vehicle undercarriages after leaving their Lake Tahoe home.
Updated on Sept. 24, 2026 in Wildlife
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Two marmots have been released back into their native Sierra Nevada habitat after being discovered in the Bay Area. The animals were found hiding in vehicle undercarriages after returning from the Burning Man event.
Why it matters
Wildlife experts believe the marmots were attracted to the warmth of vehicle undercarriages or the scent of radiator fluid. Their release ensures the animals can return to their natural habitat to prepare for winter hibernation.
The marmots were relocated to an elevation of 7,800 feet after spending 18 days in rescue care. They survived a 200-mile journey from the Lake Tahoe region to the San Francisco and Antioch areas.
The players
Yggdrasil Urban Wildlife Rescue
This organization specializes in the care and rehabilitation of displaced wildlife in the region.
The details
The animals were discovered in San Francisco and Antioch after hitching rides in car undercarriages during the return from Burning Man. Volunteers at Yggdrasil Urban Wildlife Rescue monitored and fed the pair to ensure they were healthy enough for release.
Timeline
September 4, 2026: The first marmot was found in San Francisco.
September 10, 2026: The second marmot was discovered in Antioch.
September 23, 2026: The two marmots were released into the Sierra Nevada.
Culture Shift
This incident highlights the growing tension between nomadic seasonal tourism and the native wildlife habitats that border major transit corridors. As travel to remote event sites becomes more popular, rescue groups are seeing a corresponding rise in displaced mountain animals seeking warmth in vehicle components.
Motorists returning from remote areas in the Sierra Nevada should inspect their vehicle undercarriages for stowaway wildlife before beginning their drive home. If you encounter a displaced animal, you can contact the emergency wildlife hotline at (510) 421-9897.
The takeaway
Wildlife experts remind travelers that mountain animals are often drawn to the smell of automotive fluids or heat sources. Checking your vehicle after camping in high-elevation areas can prevent long-distance displacement for local fauna.
Further reading
Learn more about local efforts to protect native animals on the Wildlife page.
Live Poll
Do you make a point to check your car for stowaway wildlife after visiting natural areas?
