The Vancouver Island marmot is unique to the island. Scientists think the species evolved from hoary marmots that crossed from the mainland and became isolated from that population about 10 000 to 12 000 years ago, during the withdrawal of the Wisconsin glaciation. This species is adapted to a habitat of alpine and sub-alpine meadows and avalanche slopes.

Vancouver Island marmots are chocolate brown with a paler muzzle and often some white hairs on the forehead, chin and sometimes on the undersides. Males, which are larger than females, average about 3.5 kg (8 lb.).

Habitat disturbance has restricted its range to only a few of the higher mountains on Vancouver Island. Survival of the species has suffered from human interference through logging, recreational activity, and hunting. Its numbers have been declining since scientists first became aware of it in 1910, and in 2000 it was estimated that fewer than 100 animals remained.

This endangered species has gained the attention of naturalist groups and government agencies. Protective measures call for no further habitat disturbances, especially logging, mining and ski developments; complete protection from hunting; and a ban on scientific collecting.