Researchers warn of dire consequences as climate change threatens species

In a poignant video captured in Canada, polar bears are seen hunting in the sea, shedding light on the harsh realities they face due to climate change.

Despite their formidable appearance, these majestic creatures are increasingly facing challenges as their habitat diminishes. Research conducted by Washington State University, in collaboration with the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), highlights the impact of melting sea ice on polar bears’ hunting habits.

Between 2019 and 2022, researchers monitored 20 bears using GPS collars equipped with cameras. The study revealed a shift in their behaviour, with polar bears spending more time on land due to the declining sea ice. This change in habitat has forced bears to adapt their hunting techniques, relying on land-based resources such as berries and carcasses.

Lead author of the study, Anthony Pagano, expressed concerns about the bears’ ability to acquire sufficient energy to survive as they are forced on land earlier in the year. He noted that increased land use could lead to higher rates of starvation, particularly among adolescents and females with cubs.

Despite their efforts to find alternative food sources, the study found that 19 out of 20 bears lost weight over the monitoring period. This indicates the challenges polar bears face in finding adequate nutrition as they spend more time on land.

Charles Robbins, director of the Washington State University Bear Center, emphasized the unsustainable nature of both land and water hunting strategies for polar bears in the long term. As sea ice continues to decline, polar bears will face an increased risk of starvation, posing a significant threat to their survival.

The findings underscore the urgent need for action to address climate change and protect the fragile ecosystems on which these iconic species depend.