Written by Karine, Camping La Chauderie, February 2, 2025
Celebrating National Groundhog Day in Auvergne
Today, February 2, is Groundhog Day, celebrated in many parts of the world. Groundhog Day has its roots in Native American traditions and was popularized by the famous event in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, where a groundhog named Phil predicted the length of winter. According to the legend, if Phil sees his shadow, it means winter will last another six weeks. If not, spring will come sooner. This tradition has evolved into a festive event, attracting thousands of visitors every year.
The marmot: a fascinating animal
The marmot is a mountain-dwelling rodent known for its hibernation. In winter it retreats into its burrow, but in spring it comes out to enjoy the sunshine and feed. If you’re staying at our campsite in the Puy de Dôme, you may well be able to spot one on your outings. National Marmot Day is an opportunity to celebrate the marmot’s return and to remind people of the importance of preserving its natural habitat.
An ideal habitat
Marmots are mainly found in mountainous areas, where they dig burrows in alpine meadows. Not far from our campsite near Puy de Sancy, you can spot them in places like the Parc Naturel Régional des Volcans d’Auvergne, particularly around the Massif du Sancy. These areas offer an ideal habitat for marmots, with grass-rich meadows and rocks where they can hide from predators.
Behaviour and lifestyle
Marmots are diurnal animals, which means they are active during the day. They spend their time feeding on grasses, flowers and roots, and are often seen playing or basking in the sun. Their social behavior is also fascinating: they live in colonies and communicate with each other by whistling to alert their fellow creatures to imminent danger.
Best times to see the marmot
The best time to observe marmots in the Auvergne is during the summer, when temperatures are pleasant and marmots are particularly active. If you’re staying at our Auvergne volcano campsite, the months of June to September are ideal. This is when young marmots emerge from their burrows to explore their surroundings. Don’t forget to bring binoculars so you can observe them without disturbing them!
Observation tips
1. I’m quiet : Marmots are very sensitive to noise. Approach them slowly and speak softly so as not to frighten them.
2. I choose the right time: Early morning or late afternoon are the best times to spot them, as they are most active at these times.
3. I respect their habitat : Stay on marked trails and don’t disturb their burrows. Preserving their habitat is essential to their survival. 4. I’ll be accompanied : ask for a guide on organized outings so that you don’t miss anything during your observation.
To continue your exploration of the fascinating wildlife during your stay at our campsite in the heart of nature in the Puy-de-Dôme, don’t miss our next article where we’ll tell you all about the majestic mouflons, the emblematic animals of the Auvergne mountains.
Next article : mouflons