Polar Bears: The Fate of an Icon

摘要: Polar bears are one of the most iconic animals on our planet. Worldwide, even people who would never see drawn to these charismatic arctic ice hunters. They world's largest terrestrial carnivore, and despite being born land, they spend their lives out sea considered a marine mammal. Current global studies estimate there around 20,000 in some 19 discrete circumpolar populations. Aside from pregnant females denning winter months give birth, white do not hibernate. winters hunting seals, an activity spectacularly adapted for. Research is incredibly difficult because inhospitable surroundings inhabit how inaccessible make bears. For many years, sum understanding natural history polar came tracks, scats, remains kills, abandoned dens, anecdotal observations native hunters, explorers, early biologists. Nonetheless, last 40 years have seen much better picture biology emerge thanks to, first, dedicated Canadian researchers and, later, truly international efforts workers countries. Veterinarians contributed knowledge by delivering monitoring anesthesia, obtaining blood samples, performing necropsies, investigating reproduction, conducting radiotelemetry studies, examining behavior. Recently, new technologies been developed that revolutionize study undisturbed These advances include satellite equipment development remote-controlled miniature devices equipped with high-definition cameras. Such modalities provide dramatic insights into life The remarkable degree specialized adaptation allowed be successful very reason so vulnerable effects climate change. few alternatives if habitat (the ice) access ringed seal prey rapidly disappear. Predictions may able adjust sustain themselves alternative food sources based reality. Spring breakup happening earlier as well fall freezeup getting thereby prolonging open water period shore bound. If trends continue continues disappear, effect devastating. must stay involved bear multidisciplinary conservation dealing threatened endangered species worldwide. On account training, veterinarians can offer unique skill set number critical efforts. oath take graduation veterinary school charges them sworn "conservation animal resources" education public. We only good oaths we keep.