Current status of forest-steppe marmot Marmota kastschenkoi settlements on the northern periphery of its range (Tomsk Oblast) and problems of its protection
Title
Современное состояние поселений лесостепного сурка Marmota kastschenkoi на северной периферии ареала (Томская область) и проблемы его охраны
The forest-steppe marmot, Marmota kastschenkoi was historically clas-sified as a subspecies of the gray marmot M. baibacina. However, based on morpho-logical, karyological, and ecological characteristics, it has been proposed to elevate its taxonomic status to that of a distinct species. This species was initially described as a subspecies from the vicinity of Tomsk, which represents the northern boundary of its geographic range. This marmot also inhabits Kemerovo and Novosibirsk Oblasts, as well as Altai Krai. It is estimated that the total population of forest-steppe marmots is approximately 13 000 individuals, which is the smallest number among all marmot species in Russia. The proposal to include this species in the Red Data Book of Russia has been put forward repeatedly, but unfortunately has not been implemented. The number of marmots in Tomsk Oblast is the smallest of all the regions where this spe-cies lives. Regrettably, contemporary data regarding this species in Tomsk Oblast are scarce. Population estimates ranging from several dozen to 200 individuals. The for-est-steppe marmot is listed in the regional Red Data Book. The study is aimed to as-sess the current state of population of forest-steppe marmots within some existing colonies in Tomsk Oblast, as well as to quantify the number of burrows and family groups present within these colonies. The significance of this study is emphasised by the ongoing economic activities in proximity to marmot habitats. These activities, which include cottage construction and mining, pose a substantial threat to the surviv-al of population of marmots in these rare settlements.
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