Polar bear Facts
The polar bear is a large Arctic mammal and the heaviest living bear and the heaviest land carnivore, with males weighing 300 to 800 kg.
- Class
- Mammal
- Scientific name
- Ursus maritimus
- Conservation status
- Vulnerable (IUCN)
About the polar bear
Under its white or yellowish fur, a polar bear has black skin and a deep layer of fat. Compared with its close relative the brown bear, it is slimmer, with a narrower skull, a longer neck and sharper teeth made for slicing meat. Big paws spread its weight on ice and work as paddles in the water. Because it depends so heavily on the sea, it counts as a marine mammal.
Seals are the main target, especially ringed seals, and the bear mostly eats their blubber. It may stalk prey or wait patiently at a breathing hole. Walruses and beluga whales are also on the list. When summer melts the sea ice, polar bears move onto land. Cubs are born in winter dens and may remain with their mother as long as two and a half years.
Did you know?
- Polar bears and brown bears can interbreed.
- Experts estimate the world has between 22,000 and 31,000 polar bears.
- During breeding season, male polar bears guard females and fight off rivals.
Questions about the polar bear
What do polar bears eat?
Mainly seals, especially ringed seals, plus walruses, beluga whales and some land animals.
Are polar bears endangered?
The IUCN lists the polar bear as vulnerable.
Sources
- Wikidata Q33609, checked October 8, 2026
- Wikipedia: Polar bear, checked October 8, 2026
Facts are compiled from these open sources and rewritten in our own words. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.