Adopt a Polar Bear

Of all of the wildlife species in the Artic, the polar bear is perhaps the most fitting icon for this ecoregion. Its amazing adaptations to life in the harsh Arctic environment and dependence on sea ice make them so impressive, and yet so vulnerable. An indicator of the health of the ecosystem can be measured by the biodiversity that lives there. There are strong signs of stress on the Artic marine system which are all factors in putting this species at risk.
Already areas once covered by sea ice are melting at an unprecedented rate. Polar bears need sea ice to access their ringed seals, their main source of food, and to move from hunting grounds to their summer resting areas. As the time on the ice becomes shorter, bears can not store up enough energy for summer and autumn when there is little available food.


There are an estimated 22,000 polar bears living in 20 discreet populations worldwide. Illegal hunting or over-harvesting does not affect all polar bear populations, but can be a major threat to smaller populations and in areas without established regulation or enforcement. Although actual harvest levels are unknown in some areas, an estimated 250-300 polar bears were illegally taken on Russia's Chukotka Peninsula in 2002, twice the level experienced in previous years. This increase is likely a result in changes in climate, causing early ice retreat and stranding large number of bears on land. A recent population study indicated that, even at a harvest level of 180 bears per year, there would likely be a 50 percent reduction in this population size in less than 20 years.

WWF is using its global reach and scientific expertise in the field to examine the effects of climate change and advocate for solutions that will help preserve the polar bears, and wild Arctic places for future generations. Listing the polar bear as Threatened under the Endangered Species Act will provide additional tools and a level of protection for this icon of the north.
Click on the TITLE "Adopt a Polar Bear" to link to WWF

Help save these beautiful, majestic creatures of the North.