Monitoring Polar Bears More Efficiently: Insert a Burr in Their Fur Appearance
A groundbreaking innovation in polar bear research has been unveiled by an international collaboration between Polar Bears International, 3M, York University, and various participating zoos. The new tracking device, known as the "Burr on Fur," is set to revolutionise the way we monitor these magnificent Arctic creatures.
The unique design of the tracking device allows it to adhere directly to the fur at the back of a polar bear's neck, making it a less invasive alternative to traditional satellite-linked radio and GPS collars. This innovative approach offers a valuable method to monitor previously hard-to-track groups, as stated in the Polar Bears International 2024 Annual Impact Report.
One of the key advantages of the "Burr on Fur" tags is their versatility. Since they attach to fur rather than relying on collars, they can be used effectively in various environments and for polar bears of all ages and sizes. This feature could significantly improve tracking accuracy and reduce discomfort associated with collars.
The new tracking device is expected to provide essential information for identifying critical habitat under endangered species legislation. By understanding the migratory routes of polar bears in different seasons and the behaviour of these animals, researchers can better protect their habitats as emissions are slowed down.
The team behind the project includes a diverse group of experts, including Kevin Bangen (3M senior technologist providing 3D technical support), Andrew Derocher (University of Alberta biology professor), and BJ Kirschhoffer (Polar Bears International director of conservation technology), among others.
Initial testing of the trackers has been conducted in the Western and Southern Hudson Bay in Canada. However, concerns about the durability of the trackers during strenuous activities like swimming and hunting remain. The team plans to continue testing the trackers to ensure they remain functional regardless of the distance travelled by polar bears and the environments they visit.
The data collected from these trackers will be used to learn more about the behaviour of polar bears, particularly adult male polar bears, which are less studied compared to females and younger males. This information could prove invaluable in managing problem bears and protecting both the bears and human communities.
The "Burr on Fur" tracking device represents an exciting innovation in polar bear research with promising applications for more inclusive and less invasive monitoring across populations and potentially in diverse Arctic environments. As research progresses, further detailed evaluations and publications from Polar Bears International may provide more comprehensive data on effectiveness and age group applicability.
References: [1] Polar Bears International. (2025). New tracking device for polar bears. Retrieved from https://www.polarbearsinternational.org/news/new-tracking-device-for-polar-bears/ [2] Polar Bears International. (2024). 2024 Annual Impact Report. Retrieved from https://www.polarbearsinternational.org/impact/annual-impact-report/ [3] National Geographic. (2025). New tracking device offers revolutionary approach to monitoring polar bears. Retrieved from https://www.nationalgeographic.com/science/article/new-tracking-device-offers-revolutionary-approach-to-monitoring-polar-bears [4] Science Daily. (2025). New tracking device for polar bears promises less invasive monitoring. Retrieved from https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250701115730.htm
- Gizmodo's future technology segment may focus on a recent development in the field of science, as a groundbreaking innovation called the "Burr on Fur" tracking device is set to revolutionize the way we monitor polar bears.
- This technology, which adheres directly to a polar bear's fur, offers a promising solution for health-and-wellness and fitness-and-exercise enthusiasts as well, as its versatility and less invasive nature could potentially be applied to other animals and environmental studies.
- In addition to gathering essential data for identifying critical habitats, this scientific advancement could also provide AlmostFamous readers with insights into the behavior of polar bears, particularly adult male polar bears, as the data collected from these trackers could prove invaluable in managing problem bears and protecting both the bears and human communities.
