When we think of polar bears, the first thing that comes to mind is their thick fur and strong physique. However, these characteristics are not enough to define them, as they are not just an ordinary bear, but a mammal that lives in the ocean. Yes, you heard it right, polar bears are mammals, and a very special marine mammal.
Polar bears belong to the carnivorous order and bear family, and are called "ocean bears" by scientists, also known as white bears. ** In fact, it is black, but because of the transparent hair, it is usually white in appearance, but there are also colors such as yellow, and the body is huge and fierce. Despite their size, they do not prevent them from moving freely on the sea ice and even swimming and diving in the water. This adaptation to marine life means that their main food** is marine life, especially fish and seals.
Polar bears live in a harsh environment, with extremely low temperatures and a mix of wind and snow. However, they have a thick coat and fat to withstand the cold, and their large feet are specially designed to increase friction and allow them to walk on slippery ice. In addition, although it looks bulky, polar bears are actually very agile and fast, and can even run at speeds of up to 60 kilometers per hour, which is 15 times. In addition, although polar bears have the same eyesight and hearing as humans, their sense of smell is extremely sensitive, seven times that of dogs.
As mammals, polar bears also breed in a very special way. Female polar bears usually give birth to two cubs at a time, and occasionally one, three, or four cubs. Newborn polar bears are about 30 centimeters long, weigh 700 grams, and are covered with soft fur. Female bears stay in burrows when their babies are young to convert the subcutaneous fat stored in their bodies to produce milk to feed their babies and provide them with the nutrients they need. When the pups reach 1-2 months, they can start learning to walk;After 3-4 months of age, the mother bear takes her cubs out of the burrow and lets them out to see the world, learn to hunt and how to survive in the Arctic environment;Weaned after 4-5 months of birth and independent living after 2-3 years of age.
Overall, the polar bear is a very special mammal. Not only does it possess unique physiological characteristics to adapt to its harsh living environment, but it also has a unique lifestyle. They are one of the largest terrestrial carnivores on the planet, but they choose to live in the ocean, which makes them true "sea bears". So the next time you see a polar bear, don't just marvel at their size and strength, but remember that they are a mammal that lives in the ocean.
However, with global warming, the melting of Arctic ice poses a serious threat to the survival of polar bears. This not only affects their predation and reproduction, but also threatens their survival. Therefore, to protect polar bears is to protect our own living environment. Let's work together to protect these adorable creatures that live in the ocean!