Polar bears are the largest land carnivores on Earth and one of the most iconic animals of the Arctic. International Polar Bear Day, on February 27, raises awareness of polar bears and the sea ice they depend on to hunt. The date falls during the time when mother polar bears are nursing newborn cubs in snow dens, making it a good moment to learn about these remarkable animals and what is threatening their habitat.
History of International Polar Bear Day
International Polar Bear Day was created by Polar Bears International, a conservation organization founded in the 1990s that studies and protects polar bears. The day is commonly said to have been first observed in the mid-2000s.
Polar bears live in Arctic regions of Canada, the United States (Alaska), Russia, Greenland and Norway. They rely on sea ice as a platform to hunt seals, their main food. In 1973, the five 'range states' signed the Agreement on the Conservation of Polar Bears, one of the first international wildlife agreements.
In 2008, the United States listed polar bears as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act, citing the loss of sea ice due to climate change. Scientists estimate there are around 26,000 polar bears worldwide, divided into about 19 subpopulations, some of which are declining.
Why International Polar Bear Day Matters
Polar bears are an indicator species: their health reflects the health of the Arctic. As sea ice shrinks, bears have less time to hunt and must fast for longer.
The day encourages people to learn about the Arctic and to take action on climate change, which affects ecosystems worldwide.
How to Celebrate International Polar Bear Day
- Learn about polar bears: watch a documentary or a live den cam.
- Reduce energy use: turn down the thermostat a degree or two.
- Support conservation: donate to a reputable polar bear charity.
- Visit a zoo responsibly: learn from accredited zoos with conservation programs.
- Share facts: post a polar bear fact to spread awareness.
Celebrating at Work, School and Home
At work, teams can mark the day by reviewing small energy-saving steps in the office, such as turning off equipment at night, or by supporting a conservation charity. In classrooms, polar bears are a great way to teach about adaptation, food chains and climate; students can test how blubber insulates by putting a gloved hand in shortening and ice water, or map where polar bears live. At home, families can watch a polar bear documentary, read a nonfiction book together, and talk about simple ways to save energy at home, like switching off lights.
Fun Facts About International Polar Bear Day
- Polar bears' fur is actually translucent, and their skin is black.
- There are about 26,000 polar bears in around 19 subpopulations.
- The U.S. listed polar bears as threatened in 2008.
International Polar Bear Day FAQs
When is International Polar Bear Day?
International Polar Bear Day is February 27.
Who created International Polar Bear Day?
Polar Bears International, a conservation group.
How many polar bears are left?
Scientists estimate around 26,000 worldwide.
Why do polar bears need sea ice?
They use sea ice as a platform to hunt seals, their main food.