Marmot hitch-hiker rumbled after great escape from Yosemite national park

A marmot who hitched a ride out of Yosemite National Park in the engine of a car, has been rumbled and returned to his natural habitat with the help of local firefighters.

Usually found at altitudes of more than 6,500ft, this yellow-bellied marmot was discovered in Pollock Pines, California - hiding some 135 miles from Yosemite.

Stunned by the discovery, the car's owner, who had recently returned from a trip to the historic park , enlisted the help of firefighters from the El Dorado County Fire Protection District. After an injury-free removal, the marmot got another free ride, back to Yosemite this time with the help of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Native to Yosemite , yellow-bellied marmots live at high altitudes, roaming the cliffs and mountain tops in colonies of 10 to 20 animals. Fully grown marmots weigh between 5 and 11lb (2.25 to 5kg) and can live up to 15 years, surviving off a diet of grass, flowers, fruit, grasshoppers and bird eggs.

If you encounter a marmot in the wild, remain still for a chance to see the rest of it's colony. Marmots can also be hostile if they feel their territory is threatened, so don't attempt to pet or touch them .