polaarnurka

Polaarnurka, also known as the polar bear (*Ursus maritimus*), is the largest land carnivorous mammal and is native to the Arctic region. It is well-adapted to life in the cold, icy environment, with a thick layer of blubber and a dense, water-resistant coat that provides insulation. The polar bear’s fur appears white, though it is actually translucent and reflects light, giving it a ghostly appearance in the snow. Its skin is black, which helps absorb heat from the sun.

Polar bears are highly specialized predators, primarily feeding on seals, particularly ringed seals and bearded seals. They rely on sea ice as a platform for hunting, resting, and traveling. Climate change poses a significant threat to their survival, as melting sea ice reduces their access to prey and habitat. Due to habitat loss, hunting, and other human-related factors, the polar bear is classified as a vulnerable species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

These bears are solitary animals, except during mating season or when mothers care for their cubs. Females give birth to one to three cubs after a gestation period of about eight months, often in a den dug into the snow. Cubs remain with their mother for two to three years, learning essential survival skills before becoming independent.

Polar bears play a crucial role in the Arctic ecosystem, serving as both predator and prey. Conservation efforts focus on protecting their habitat, regulating hunting, and mitigating the impacts of climate change. They are also a cultural and ecological symbol in Indigenous Arctic communities, where they hold deep significance in traditions and folklore.