Oregon Zoo Polar Bear facts

Their Latin name is ursus maritimus or “sea bear”
Biologists estimate there are approximately 22,000 – 27,000 polar bears in the world
About 15,000 polar bears live in Canada
Alaska, Russia, Greenland and Norway are also home to polar bears
They are the world’s largest land predators
Males weigh 775 lbs. – 1,500 lbs.
Females weigh 330 lbs. – 550 lbs.
Polar bears are believed to be very intelligent
They communicate through body language and vocals
Partially webbed forepaws help them to swim
They can see up to 15 feet under water and can swim over 60 miles without rest
Their fur is actually clear with a hollow core (not white) – it looks white because it scatters and reflects light like snow and ice do
Polar bears sleep and nap about 7 – 8 hours a day
Polar bears do not hibernate but pregnant females do stay in a den
Breeding season is in August and September
Birthing season is in November and December
Females usually have two cubs
The average lifespan is 25 – 30 years of age
Ringed seal is their favorite food
After every feeding, the bears clean themselves
The only enemy of adult polar bears are humans and occasionally other bears

Photo provided by Polar Bears International.