Animals
Polar Bear
he polar bear (Ursus maritimus) is a symbol of Arctic endurance, evolving from brown bear ancestors around 500,000 years ago. This evolutionary split allowed polar bears to adapt to the extreme conditions of the Arctic, developing traits suited for hunting seals on sea ice.
Their white fur provides both camouflage and insulation, while a thick layer of fat protects them from freezing temperatures. Polar bears' large, webbed paws enable them to swim vast distances, a critical adaptation as their icy habitats shrink due to climate change.
As apex predators, polar bears play a crucial role in Arctic ecosystems. However, their survival is increasingly threatened by warming temperatures and melting ice, underscoring the importance of conservation efforts to preserve this unique evolutionary marvel.