The Chukotka and Alaska population of polar bears is under examination by Russian and American scientists.

      The very first observations were made in the nature reserve Wrangel Island of the Chukotka Autonomous Region. Based on results of this work specialists are going to make a three-year plan of more wide-ranging studies of bears.

      According to the head of the nature reserve, Alexander Gruzdev, it is the for the first time that domestic scientists are so closely cooperating with colleagues from the United States. In particular, the issues of preserving wild flora and fauna species are studied.

      Mr. Gruzdev noted that in a month the research team has visited all the corners of the island. 180 polar bears have been registered altogether.

      The data received by experts will be promulgated at the Russian-American meeting on preserving animals in Alaska. Further on the study of bear population will be continued.