International Polar Bear Day
Every year, this global event draws attention to the challenges polar bears face in a warming Arctic - and how we each can help.
"We founded the day to coincide with the time period when polar bear moms and cubs are snug in their dens. As part of our celebration, we focus on the need to protect denning families across the Arctic."
Protecting Moms and Cubs
Right now, polar bear moms and their newborn cubs are snuggled together in snow dens across the Arctic.
Denning is the most vulnerable time in a polar bear’s life. And in a warming Arctic, where polar bears face enormous challenges, the survival of every single cub is critically important.
Polar bear cubs are born in winter dens hidden under the snow. At birth, they are blind, weigh little more than one pound, and have only a light layer of fur to protect them from the cold. Families remain in the den until spring when the cubs are finally large enough to survive the rigors of outside Arctic conditions.
Keeping moms and cubs safe while also addressing climate warming is a critical part of our work on behalf of polar bears—and your support can make a real difference.