In a recent interview with Fat Marmot Week organizer Katie Adler, it was revealed that a plump yellow-bellied marmot named Dawn emerged as the victor in Gothic, Colo. during the event’s debut this summer. Dawn clinched both the popular vote and the weight-gain contest, doubling in size from 2.5 to 5.9 kilograms.

Known for fathering multiple marmot litters and indulging in rocks for their salt and minerals, Dawn’s weight gain was a standout achievement. Organizer Katie Adler praised Dawn’s unique eating habits, stating, “He is a special boy who likes to eat rocks.”

Despite his victory, Dawn’s role extends beyond being a champion. He now serves as an informal ambassador for the Marmot Project, a long-standing research initiative facing uncertainty due to funding cuts in the U.S.

Inspired by the successful Fat Bear Week in Alaska’s Katmai National Park and Preserve, Fat Marmot Week sheds light on the hibernation habits of marmots like Dawn. As these creatures prepare for their winter slumber, they pack on weight to endure the cold months ahead.

The Marmot Project, a comprehensive study of yellow-bellied marmots ongoing since 1962, faces challenges due to funding reductions in research organizations. With cuts affecting vital grants and resources, the project seeks alternative avenues for financial support, including unconventional campaigns like OnlyMarms on OnlyFans.

Raising over $120,000 in donations through innovative initiatives, the Marmot Project continues its vital research work. However, the reliance on donations is not sustainable for long-term projects. To address this, a petition urging Congress to reverse research cuts has been launched.

Looking ahead, the Marmot Project plans to host another Fat Marmot Week in 2027, aiming to engage the public in appreciating these resilient creatures. Adler hopes that through these efforts, marmots like Dawn will garner greater admiration from the public for their ability to endure and thrive in challenging environments.