The polar bear is the largest extant species of bear and land carnivore by body mass, with adult males weighing 300–800 kg (660–1,760 lb). The species is sexually dimorphic, as adult females are much …

May 4, 1999 · Polar bear, great white northern bear found throughout the Arctic region. The polar bear is the largest and most powerful carnivore on land, a title it shares with a subspecies of brown bear …

Polar bears live along shores and on sea ice in the icy cold Arctic. When sea ice forms over the ocean in cold weather, many polar bears, except pregnant females, head out onto the ice to...

Feb 13, 2025 · Polar bears (Ursus maritimus) are closely related to brown bears but have adapted to life in the snow and ice and live in the coldest environments in the nation.

The polar bear's Latin name, Ursus maritimus, means "sea bear." It's an apt name for this majestic species, which spends much of its life in, around, or on the ocean–predominantly on or near the sea ice.

From cubs and habitat to status and threats, learn about all things polar bears from the leading polar bear nonprofit.

The polar bear is an iconic species and a vital indicator of the health of the natural world. Their future is threatened by climate change, habitat loss, and the pressures of living in closer contact with people. …

Feb 20, 2026 · Their thick white coat and a layer of fat keep them warm and camouflaged in their harsh Arctic environment. Polar bears are classified as vulnerable. There are between 22,000 to 31,000 …

Feb 9, 2006 · Genetic research has confirmed that polar bears evolved from brown bears (U. arctos) roughly 500 thousand years ago. Polar bears and brown bears overlap in regions of northern …

Hundreds of thousands of years of evolution have prepared polar bears for life on sea ice. It is an essential habitat and they use it for hunting, mating, and denning.