A long-term study on yellow-bellied marmots led by Daniel Blumstein has faced funding challenges, particularly after cuts to environmental research under the Trump administration. To address this, the team drew inspiration from the Apple TV comedy series Margo’s Got Money Troubles, and created an OnlyFans account called “OnlyMarms” to share amusing videos of marmots in a G-rated manner.
Since June, OnlyMarms has been posting new and humorous images of individual marmots twice a week. They are currently preparing for a “Fat Marmot Week” event to promote body positivity and encourage public engagement. This initiative might involve collaboration with Canadian Vancouver Island Marmots.
Blumstein’s lab, focusing on yellow-bellied marmots and their responses to climate change, is one of the longest-running studies on individually identifiable wild mammals. The research delves into aging and epigenetics, exploring how environmental factors impact gene function over successive marmot generations.
Despite facing funding rejections, Blumstein has sustained the study through collaborations and external grants. OnlyMarms has raised approximately $3,000 US since its inception, but additional funding is required to support ongoing research efforts. While OnlyFans generates income, Blumstein encourages direct donations to UCLA to ensure the project’s continuity.
The team’s unique approach has garnered attention and support, emphasizing the importance of sustaining valuable wildlife research initiatives.