Adaptations
A thick fat layer, dense water-repellent fur, small extremities, and a dark heat-absorbing skin surface limit heat loss. Broad paws help with swimming, traction, and spreading body weight over snow and ice.
Behavior and daily life
Most adults travel alone, although bears can gather around concentrated food. Pregnant females excavate maternity dens in snow or earth and emerge with cubs after a prolonged fasting period.
Conservation
Current profile labelVulnerable
Long-term loss of sea ice reduces access to prey and can force longer swims or more time on land. Pollution, industrial activity, shipping, and conflict near Arctic communities add regional pressures.
Polar bears are classified as marine mammals because they depend heavily on the sea and its ice-covered hunting habitat.
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