OnlyMarms': Marmots Are on OnlyFans to Raise Money for Research

OnlyMarms’: Marmots Are on OnlyFans to Raise Money for Research describes how a UCLA biologist and colleagues turned to a mainstream subscription platform to fund long-running field studies. The concept began when Daniel Blumstein, a biologist, faced limited funding amid federal cuts, then drew inspiration from a TV premise about using OnlyFans for income. He created an account named OnlyMarms that posts research videos of wild marmots, offering free subscriptions while requesting tips to support studies. The team at the Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory in Crested Butte, Colorado, has studied yellow-bellied marmots since 1962, tracking behavior and lineages. Early performance included about 2,900 visits, 112 subscribers, and roughly $650 in tips, far below what’s needed. Blumstein said the platform flagged a mismatch when he uploaded a driver’s license photo, but email resolved it, and the page continues seeking grant funding.