New remote scale helps weigh biscuit-eating endangered marmots

Vancouver Island’s Vancouver Island marmots are facing a critical situation where their survival hinges on having more weight on their bodies. Researchers from the Marmot Recovery Foundation and the Wilder Institute have been conducting a study on the benefits of providing supplemental food to these endangered mammals. The goal is to understand how body weight impacts their survival during hibernation and their reproductive success.

To enhance their research, technicians at Vancouver Island University have developed a remote weighing scale specifically designed for marmots. This new scale allows for continuous monitoring of the marmots’ weight throughout the season without the need to capture and stress the animals. The scale, about the size of a laptop with a durable plywood surface, is strategically placed in areas frequented by the marmots.

The Vancouver Island marmot population had dwindled to less than 30 in 2003, prompting conservation efforts by the Marmot Recovery Foundation. By 2023, their population had climbed to over 300, a testament to the success of the recovery program. These marmots have adapted to harsh conditions, but factors like landscape changes, predator pressures, and prey availability have contributed to their decline.

One key aspect of the marmots’ survival is their ability to gain weight before hibernation, as they can lose up to one-third of their body mass during this period. Researchers believe that providing nutrient-dense biscuits immediately after hibernation can help the marmots thrive. The biscuits, made from pressed dry leaves, are placed in feeding tubes outside their dens and have shown positive impacts on their health and breeding success.

Adam Taylor, the executive director of the Marmot Recovery Foundation, highlights the importance of the supplemental feeding program and the positive effects it has had on the marmots over the past decade. With the new remote weighing technology, researchers hope to gather concrete data on the effectiveness of the program in aiding the marmots’ survival.

The Vancouver Island marmots are a unique and endemic species to Canada, underscoring the importance of preserving biodiversity. Taylor emphasizes the significance of saving these marmots, as they are a vital part of the planet’s rich ecosystem. The research and conservation efforts being undertaken are crucial in ensuring the survival of these endangered species for future generations.