Welcome to the World of Polar Bear
Polar Bear
Ursus maritimus
Also known as: Sea bear
Average lifespan: 20–25 years in the wild (up to 30 in captivity)
Primary habitat: Sea ice, Arctic coastlines, and tundra
Geographic range: Arctic regions of North America, Greenland, Russia, and Norway
Overview
The polar bear is the largest land carnivore on Earth and a top predator of the Arctic. Perfectly adapted to life on sea ice, it depends heavily on seals for survival. As climate change reduces sea ice, polar bears face increasing challenges across their range.
What It Looks Like
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Massive body with a long neck and narrow head
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Thick white fur that appears translucent
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Black skin beneath the fur for heat absorption
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Large, powerful paws adapted for swimming and walking on ice
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Strong claws for gripping prey and ice
How It Behaves
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Mostly solitary except during mating or with cubs
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Active throughout the day
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Travels long distances in search of food
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Excellent swimmer capable of covering many miles
What It Eats
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Primarily seals, especially ringed and bearded seals
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Occasionally fish, birds, and carrion
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Carnivorous apex predator
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Hunts mainly from sea ice platforms
Life Cycle
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Mating occurs in spring
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Delayed implantation of embryos
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Females give birth to 1–3 cubs in snow dens
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Cubs remain with their mother for over two years
Survival Skills
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Thick blubber layer for insulation
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Dense fur that traps heat
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Exceptional sense of smell to locate seals
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Strong swimming ability in icy waters
Fast Facts
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Largest bear species in the world
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Fur is hollow and not actually white
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Can smell seals from over a mile away
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Considered a marine mammal by many scientists
Conservation
Polar bears are apex predators that play a key role in Arctic ecosystems by regulating seal populations and reflecting the overall health of sea ice environments. They are threatened primarily by climate change, which is rapidly reducing sea ice needed for hunting, along with pollution and increased human activity in the Arctic. Conservation efforts focus on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, protecting critical habitat, managing human–bear conflict, and international cooperation to help polar bears survive in a warming Arctic.​