While most kids can be found doting over their pet cats and dogs, Matteo Walch prefers the company of his tight-knit group of Alpine Marmots friends. Instead of fleeing when he approaches, these furry ground squirrels find Matteo simply irresistible, and immediately run to his side to give him nuzzles and kisses.
The eight-year-old boy from Innsbruck, Austria has been dubbed the "Marmot Whisperer" for his amazing ability to charm the pants off of them. While some news outlets have claimed that Marmots are typically shy around humans, researchers point out that in areas of high tourism, such as the alpine region of Groslocker Matteo has been vacationing at for years, they are more likely to habituate and be friendly towards humans…especially when there's a tasty snack for them at stake!
Either way, we think that these photos (and Matteo's love of the marmots) are absolutely ADORABLE. According to Matteo's mom, Michaela Walch, his friendship with the marmots he visits has lasted for over four years.
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"I could spend hours watching animals, it gives me a connection with nature and its life forms," said Matteo.
Matteo and his family return to the region for two weeks each year for vacation.
Marmots are excellent diggers, and are generally considered to be the largest species of squirrel.
The marmots love Matteo and get excited whenever he visits them.
Most Alpine marmots can be found throughout the European Alps (naturally).
“When we come, they run straight to him,” Matteo's mother, Michaela Walch, told Today.com
Matteo seems right at home with these furry critters.
The bond between children and animals is amazing to behold.
“The first time we came, four marmots jumped on top of him and he was falling down, smiling and laughing,” his mother said.
Matteo spends many hours playing with his marmot friends whenever his family comes to visit the region.
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