At their March 2009 meeting in Tromsø, Norway, the five polar bear range states expressed deep concern over the accelerating rate and extent of changes in the Arctic induced by climate warming. They unanimously agreed that the impacts of climate change and the continued and increasing loss and fragmentation of sea ice - the key habitat for both polar bears and their main prey - constituted the most important threat to polar bear conservation.  In their statement, however, the PBSG encourages the Government of Nunavut to re-examine its position and adhere to the international Agreement on the Conservation of Polar Bears.  Read more here>>>

In May, Council was sad to receive the news from Piero Genovesi (Italy) that he was resigning his post as Vice President to Eurasia due to time constraints.  We thank Piero for all of his hard work and dedication during his tenure.  Andreas Zedrosser (Austria/Norway) was elected as his replacement, and we consider him to be an excellent choice.  We look forward to Andreas' contributions and energy to Council.  Because Andreas formerly held the position of Council Member (Europe), Alexandros Karamanlidis (Greece) was elected as his replacement.

Online Membership is finally here! Membership in the IBA pays off for bear researchers, managers, and conservationists alike.  The IBA offers connectivity with peers, professional meetings, publications, and updated information and news pertaining to bears and bear projects worldwide.  Click on our Membership Page to learn more, or to sign up now!

Give to bear conservation without leaving your desk!  The Bear Conservation Fund works to advance the conservation of all bear species, particularly those most at risk, by providing funds for grants programs of the IBA. These generate the information and collaboration necessary for effective science-based conservation of bears and bear habitats.  The Bear Conservation Fund is now accepting donations online, with IBA membership close behind on the schedule.  To learn more about online giving, click here>>>

Occassionally, the IBA needs to contact you regarding important notices, membership renewal, and conference announcements.  Your updated email address is necessary for us to contact you!  To update your email address, click here>>>

Beginning in 2010, the International Bear News will be published electronically for 2 of the 4 issues/year.  The IBN also publishes reviews about books on bears, and articles pertinent to bears in history and culture.  Be sure that your electronic information is updated in our IBA database by sending us your current email.  Click here>>> to submit your information.

Ursus Journal is now located at www.bearbiology.com.  Ursus includes a variety of articles on all aspects of bear management and research worldwide.  Original manuscripts are welcome.  In addition to manuscripts reporting original research, submissions may be based on thoughtful review and synthesis of previously-reported information, innovative philosophies and opinions, and public policy or legal aspects of wildlife conservation.  Click here>>> and take a look!

The recent 19th International Conference on Bear Research & Management in Tbilisi, Georgia was a great success!  Conference dates were May 18-22, 2010.  For more information, click here>>>

Ottawa, Ontario, will be our venue for the 20th International Conference on Bear Research & Management.  Mark July 17-23, 2011 on your calendars!  For more information, view our Conferences and Workshops page, or contact Marty Obbard.