Scientists of the Severtsov Institute of Ecology and Evolution at the Russian Academy of Sciences put tracking collars on polar bears on Bely Island and Vilkitsky Island in the Kara Sea.

In July 2019, the scientists continued their polar bear research programme. This year, they are focusing on making seasonal estimates of the polar bear population and distribution on the islands during the ice-free period, and also on evaluating the current state of the population in the face of climate change in the Yamal-Nenets Autonomous Area.

The research is a collaboration effort between the Severtsov Institute of Ecology and Evolution at the Russian Academy of Sciences, the Russian Arctic Development Centre and Rosneft.

Expedition members were based in the village of Seyakha. During two days of observations from a Yamal Airlines Mil Mi-8MTV helicopter, the scientists scanned Bely and Vilkitsky islands and spotted three polar bears on Bely Island and four on Vilkitsky Island.

On Bely Island, the scientists immobilised a female accompanied by two cubs born this year. Another female was immobilised on Vilkitsky Island. Both adults were immobilised from the helicopter using a remote injector and later examined to determine their size, age and weight.

Both the adult bears and cubs received the highest score for nourishment. The scientists took samples of their blood, fur and feces for further research. Tests will detect any heavy metals and other contaminants in the bears’ bodies as well as provide a broader picture of their general health and any ailments. 

Russia-produced Argos tracking collars were put on the adult females to track their movements in close to real-time. This will allow the scientists to assess the daily, seasonal and annual activity and mobility of polar bears as well as understand the animals’ behaviour in response to climate change and human impact.