Wildlife

Polar Bear Welfare in a Warming Arctic

Polar bears are an iconic species facing existential threat from rapid sea ice loss driven by climate change, with profound welfare implications.

Key Facts

Polar bears depend on sea ice to hunt ringed seals, their primary prey
Arctic sea ice extent is declining at a rate of 13 percent per decade
Polar bears are forced onto land for longer periods without adequate food
Body condition scores in Hudson Bay polar bears have declined significantly
The IUCN lists polar bears as Vulnerable with continued decline projected

Welfare Considerations

Polar bears enduring extended fasting periods as sea ice disappears experience nutritional stress, weight loss, and reduced reproductive success. Cubs born to malnourished mothers have lower survival rates. Drowning incidents from longer swims between ice floes are increasing. Climate change is the defining welfare threat for this species.

What You Can Do

Reduce your carbon footprint to slow Arctic warming
Support climate advocacy organizations working on emissions reduction
Donate to polar bear research and conservation programs
Learn about polar bear ecology and share this knowledge
Advocate for ambitious climate policy at local and national levels