“The first time I saw a polar bear in the wild – a huge male striding along the shores of Hudson Bay, while waiting for fall freeze-up – I was struck by his size, power, and grace. It was a life-changing moment for me, one that inspired me to do all that I can to ensure this symbol of the Arctic roams the sea ice for generations to come.

Polar bears are built for the cold and thrive in sub-zero temperatures, where they hunt blubber-rich seals from a platform of sea ice. From the bumps on the bottom of their paws that keep them from slipping to two layers of fur that protect them from the cold, they are perfectly adapted to their Arctic environment.

They are also keenly intelligent and endlessly fascinating to photograph and watch. Mothers snuggle with cubs, big males play-wrestle in the snow, and curious youngsters play with kelp along the shore. No two viewings of polar bears are the same. Every year, I see something new.

I’m also drawn to polar bears because they are a powerful symbol of sea ice loss from global climate warming and a poignant messenger on the urgent need to act. By taking action on climate change, we’ll not only ensure the polar bear’s future, but help people too.”

polarbearsinternational.org
www.instagram.com/polarbearsinternational

My Big 5

Polar Bear
Ermine
Arctic Fox
Arctic Hare
Snow Leopard