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The polar bear (Ursus maritimus) is a large bear native to the Arctic and nearby areas. It is closely related to the brown bear, and the two species can interbreed. The polar bear is the largest extant species of bear and land carnivore, with adult males weighing 300–800 kg (660–1,760 lb).
Jun 29, 2024 · Learn about the polar bear, the largest and most powerful carnivore on land, and its adaptations, diet, and threats. Find out how global warming is affecting its sea ice habitat and population.
- The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica
- A polar bear is a great white northern bear (family Ursidae) found throughout the Arctic region. Except for one subspecies of grizzly bear, the pol...
- Polar bears are mostly carnivorous. They eat the ringed seal as well as the bearded seal and other pinnipeds. Additionally, polar bears are opportu...
- One important adaptation of polar bears to their unique climate is the transparency of their thick fur, which allows sunlight to pass through and r...
- No, polar bears are not an endangered species, but they are threatened. In 2015 the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Polar Bea...
Learn about the polar bear, the largest bear and the Arctic's top predator, and how climate change is threatening its survival. Find out how WWF is protecting polar bears and their habitat through research, advocacy, and community engagement.
Sep 8, 2017 · Learn how polar bears have adapted to life on top of the world... How do polar bears survive their Arctic habitat? Is climate change affecting their population?
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- Polar bears are classified as marine mammals. Because they spend most of their lives on the sea ice of the Arctic Ocean depending on the ocean for their food and habitat, polar bears are the only bear species to be considered marine mammals.
- A polar bear skin is actually black. Beneath all that thick fur, polar bears have jet black skin. The polar bear’s fur is also translucent, and only appears white because it reflects visible light.
- They can swim constantly for days at a time. As well as reaching speeds of up to 6mph in the water, polar bears can swim for long distances and steadily for many hours to get from one piece of ice to another.
- Less than 2% of polar bear hunts are successful. Although about half of a polar bear’s life is spent hunting for food, their hunts are rarely successful.
Learn how polar bears have adapted to life on top of the world, what they eat, how they breed, and why they are vulnerable to climate change. See stunning photos and videos of these Arctic giants and their environment.
Learn about the polar bear, the world's largest terrestrial carnivore and a key indicator of Arctic health. Find out how WWF is working to protect its habitat, reduce human-wildlife conflict, and innovate in research.
