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Polar Bear
Polar Bear
Mammal. Of all the mammals, polar bears are the most highly adapted to harsh conditions. They can survive for long periods of time without food or water, while continuing normal activities. They are great swimmers, with partially webbed forepaws, and they can swim over 96 kilometers (60 miles) without resting. Polar bears range in color from white to pale yellow to dark yellow. The hairs of the polar bear's fur are clear with a hollow center. The fur looks white or yellow because the hairs scatter the light, the way snow reflects light. Polar bears clean themselves after every feeding. Females typically have two cubs.
Scientific Name Lifespan
Ursus maritimus 25 Years
Diet
Carnivore. Ringed seals, bearded seals, walrus, and beluga whales.
Predators and Threats
Humans; effects of pollution (PCB's), and limited feeding opportunities due to shorter periods of hard freeze of the sea ice, as a result of global warming.
Habitat
Circumpolar Arctic: Greenland, Norway, Russia, and Canada.