Remote Scales Track Endangered Vancouver Island Marmots' Vital Gains2 (Copy)

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A groundbreaking remote scale developed by Vancouver Island University helps researchers track endangered marmots without capturing them.

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These specialized scales, designed to be portable yet sturdy, monitor wild Vancouver Island marmots' weight throughout their active season.

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Canada's most endangered mammal population bounced back from less than 30 in 2003 to over 300 marmots recorded in 2023.

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Marmots can lose up to one-third of their body mass during hibernation, making pre-winter weight gain crucial for survival.

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Scientists provide nutrient-rich biscuits made from pressed dry leaves through feeding tubes near hibernation dens to boost marmot health.

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The Marmot Recovery Foundation noticed female marmots breeding more frequently after introducing supplemental feeding programs.

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Vancouver Island marmots, found nowhere else globally, faced rapid population decline due to landscape changes and predator-prey imbalances.

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The new weighing system replaces stressful manual captures, allowing researchers to collect continuous data on marmot health and feeding success.

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