This year, scientists will conduct extensive research of the polar bear distribution area as well as a count of these predators, Russian Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Alexander Kozlov said during President Vladimir Putin’s meeting with Government members.

“Animal population is an indicator used to assess wildlife conservation measures. Regrettably, we do not have exact figures for all species. Given the importance of efforts to collect such data, we are starting this year the first polar bear count  ,the minister said.

According to Mr Kozlov, the expeditions will reach Wrangel Island in early August. Next year, the experts will expand their work to the Medvezhyi Islands, and they will use drones for their research.

“Researchers will study polar bears and their habitats to detect pollutants; for these purposes they will collect samples of polar bear fur, water, snow, ice and soil,” Alexander Kozlov noted.