The Polar Bear, scientific name Ursus maritimus is a large bear. They are native to the Arctic region. Polar Bears are closely related to the brown bear. Adult males weigh between 300 and 800 kg (660 to 1,760 lb) and are significantly larger than females. They have white or yellowish fur, black skin, and a thick layer of fat, polar bears are more slender than brown bears, featuring a narrower skull and longer neck.
As both terrestrial and ice-living animals, polar bears are classified as marine mammals due to their dependence on marine ecosystems. They prefer annual sea ice but move to land during summer. Mainly carnivorous, they specialize in hunting seals, particularly ringed seals, ambushing their prey or waiting at breathing holes. In addition to seals, they may eat walruses, beluga whales, and some terrestrial animals.
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has registered the polar bear as a vulnerable species due to the effects of climate change, which now significantly impacts their range. There is an estimated population of 22,000 to 31,000 individuals. Major threats include climate change, which reduces sea ice and access to prey, alongside pollution and energy development. Polar bears face increased conflicts with humans as they spend more time on land. They have been hunted for their fur and are prominent in culture, art, and folklore.
