The Polar Bear
Ursus maritimus
What Does The Polar Bear Look Like? Where Is It Found?
Polar Bears are massive in size with a weight range of 900 to 1600 pounds, and a height range of 8 to 10 feet! These marine mammals can reach up to 8 feet in length, and males are generally larger than females. Polar Bears have large front paws, slightly webbed for paddling, and also covered on the bottom with fur to keep their pads from freezing. The pads on the bottom of their paws are also grooved to prevent them from slipping on the ice. Polar Bears have a thick coat of white fur, which helps to camouflage them in the snow and ice. Under their fur, they actually have black skin which helps them to better soak up the sun's warmth. These marine mammals have a long neck and narrow skull which streamlines them to swim faster in the water. Polar Bears also have a thick layer of blubber which provides excellent insulation and buoyancy. They are most often found along the shores and sea ice in the Arctic Circle, as well as in Alaska, Russia, Canada, and Greenland. The Polar Bears will stay in the same area all year long.
How Long Does It Live? Who's The Predator And Who's The Prey?
Polar Bears can live up to 25 years in the wild. These marine mammals don't really have any natural enemies for they are considered the "masters of their environment." Humans, however, can be a threat to them. Polar Bears mainly feed on seals, some carcasses of dead whales, and sometimes walrus, birds, vegetation, and kelp.
Is It Endangered? How Have Humans Impacted This Animal?
The Polar Bear is not endangered, but it is, however, a threatened species. The Endangered Species Act is currently working to protect this marine mammal though. Humans have indirectly impacted the Polar Bears. Our activities may be linked to a drastic climate change in the Arctic which is greatly impacting the population and life style of the Polar Bears.
Interesting Facts Time!
- Polar Bears are the largest predators on Earth
- Polar Bears are the largest of all bears
- Polar Bears have been known to swim 100 miles at one time