“I am deeply impressed by the very mission of the Russian Geographical Society: “To inspire people to love Russia.” This shows the desire to help the Russian public and the entire world discover Russia’s beauty, diversity and originality, and to present its authentic image. I welcome the opportunity to participate personally in the work of the Russian Geographical Society, helping implement its impressive, meaningful projects” (Vladimir Putin)

The studies are being held by experts from the Severtsov Institute of Ecology and Evolution at the Russian Academy of Sciences as part of the “RAS Permanent Expedition to study animals listed in the Red Data Book of the Russian Federation and other important species of Russian fauna,” together with experts from the Russian Geographical Society.

Current programmes include: the Polar Bear Programme, the Amur Tiger Programme, the Snow Leopard Programme, the White Whale Programme and the Far Eastern Leopard Programme.