Polar bear

Ursus maritimus

Vulnerable ↓

Diet

Carnivore

Lifespan

25 years

Length

2.4 m

Weight

450.0 kg

Population

26.0K

Trend

↓ Decreasing

On this page

About

The largest land carnivore on Earth, polar bears can exceed 700 kg and are found across Arctic sea ice from Canada to Russia. Highly specialized marine mammals that rely on sea ice to hunt ringed and bearded seals. Excellent swimmers capable of covering vast distances in open water. Listed as Vulnerable, with populations under severe pressure from rapid Arctic sea ice loss due to climate change.

Fun Facts

✨ Polar bear fur is actually transparent, not white.
✨ Their skin is black to absorb heat.
✨ They can swim for days at a time.

Habitat & Distribution

Found across multiple habitat types including temperate broadleaf and mixed forests, temperate coniferous forests, and boreal forests and taiga, among 4 distinct biome types within the Palearctic biogeographic realm. Populations are also found in montane and highland environments at higher elevations.

🌊 Marine Oceanic 🏖️ Marine Intertidal

Found in Norway. Currently classified as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, this species faces significant conservation challenges across its range.

🇳🇴 Norway

Diet & Behavior

🥩

Carnivore

Polar bear is classified as carnivore, adapted to its ecological niche.

Diet

🥩 Carnivore

Animal matter 100%

Conservation Status

VU Vulnerable

Estimated Population

26.0K

Population Trend

↓ Decreasing

Full Taxonomy

Carnivora (Carnivorans)

Species

Ursus maritimus (Polar bear)

Names in Other Languages

Spanish Oso Polar

French ours blanc

German Eisbär

Russian Bely Medved

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the scientific name of Polar bear?

The scientific name of Polar bear is Ursus maritimus. It belongs to the genus Ursus.

What is the conservation status of Polar bear?

Polar bear (Ursus maritimus) is classified as Vulnerable by the IUCN Red List. The population trend is decreasing.

Where does Polar bear live?

Polar bear is found in Found in Norway. Currently classified as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, this species faces significant conservation challenges across its range.. Countries include Norway.

What family does Polar bear belong to?

Polar bear (Ursus maritimus) belongs to the genus Ursus, which is part of the taxonomic family Ursidae.

What does Polar bear eat?

Polar bear is carnivore. Its diet is adapted to its natural habitat and ecological niche.

How long does Polar bear live?

Polar bear has an average lifespan of approximately 25 years in the wild.

How many Polar bear are left in the wild?

The estimated wild population of Polar bear (Ursus maritimus) is approximately 26,000 individuals.

Is Polar bear endangered?

Yes, Polar bear (Ursus maritimus) is classified as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, which means it faces a significant risk of extinction in the wild.