Ursus maritimus Phipps, 1774
Polar bear
Species recognized by T Orrell (custodian), The Integrated Taxonomic Information System
in 
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- Description
- Morphology
- Behavior
- Reproduction and Life History
- Trophic Strategy
- Biology
- Ecology and Distribution
- Distribution
- Habitat
- Associations
- Conservation
- Trends and Threats
- Relevance
- Uses
- Biodiversity Heritage Library
- References and More Information
- Literature References
- Specialist Projects
- Common Names
Description
Source and Additional Information
The polar bear is the largest living land carnivore in the world today with adult males growing up to 2.6 meters in length (2). The most well known of all bears, the polar bear is immediately recognisable from the distinctive white colour of its thick fur (2). The only unfurred parts of the body are the foot pads and the tip of its nose, which are black, revealing the dark colour of the skin underneath the pelt (3). The neck of the polar bear is longer than in other species of bears, and the elongated head has small ears. Polar bears have large strong limbs and huge forepaws which are used as paddles for swimming (3). The toes are not webbed, but are excellent for walking on snow as they bear non-retractable claws which dig into the snow like ice-picks (3). The soles of the feet also have small projections and indents which act like suction cups and help this bear to walk on ice without slipping (2). Females are about half the size of males, although a pregnant female with stored fat can exceed 500 kg in weight. Polar bear cubs weigh up to 0.7 kilograms at birth. They look similar in appearance to adults, though they have much thinner fur (2).
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