Polar bear cub walking across pack ice, Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, Alaska, United States

Polar bear cub, Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, Alaska, United States

Polar bears are closely tied to their frozen Arctic realms, roaming vast icy landscapes and sometimes covering hundreds of kilometres in search of food. The world's largest land carnivores are perfectly adapted to life on sea ice, with large paws that can span more than 30 centimetres and help them swim for kilometres.

This time of year is especially important because it's when mothers and their newborn cubs stay tucked inside snow dens. These chambers, often dug into deep drifts, provide warmth and safety during the harsh Arctic winter. Cubs are tiny at birth—about 500 grams—and rely completely on their mother for survival until they’re strong enough to venture out in spring.

Shrinking sea ice threatens this delicate cycle. By reducing carbon emissions and supporting conservation efforts, it's possible to help protect the vast Arctic habitats polar bears depend on. Every action counts toward their future.