Friends or Froze?

Midway between the North Pole and Norway, on the islands of Svalbard, a tale of coexistence unfolds between polar bears and the people who call this frosty wonderland home. Drawn by the opportunity to immerse themselves in a remote Arctic experience, Svalbard’s 2,700 human residents are undeterred by its extreme climate and icy wilderness.

Within the frozen landscape, polar bears reign as the largest land predators on Earth. An adult male polar bear can weigh as much as 1,300 pounds (600 kilograms) and stand on its hind legs up to 10 feet (3 meters) tall.

Bear in Mind

Scientists estimate that around 300 polar bears roam Svalbard’s vast 23,570 square miles (61,450 square kilometers). With roughly 60 percent of the archipelago covered in glaciers, it offers a refuge for these creatures, providing vital hunting grounds and a sanctuary for their survival.

Polar bears are naturally curious, and they have adapted to a barren environment by investigating anything that might be a food source. Encounters with humans may occur when polar bears venture near settlements or research stations in search of a meal, driven by their remarkable sense of smell and instinct to survive.

Polar Opposites

Local regulations carefully manage the relationship between humans and polar bears in Svalbard to ensure safety on both sides. By law, people venturing outside town limits carry firearms and flare guns to deter potential run-ins. They discharge rifles to create noise. This precautionary measure reduces the likelihood of conflict. Shooting a polar bear is legal only in cases of imminent danger.

A polar bear’s diet includes birds, fish, and whales, but they prefer seals. Sea ice provides them with excellent platforms to seek their favorite prey. With climate change, however, polar bears spend more time on shore, where they are more likely to cross paths with a human. A 2017 report found that 61 percent of attacks occur when a polar bear is malnourished.

Arctic Tactics

In addition to carrying deterrents, Svalbard residents use a variety of other strategies to stay safe. When camping, for example, they set up trip wires and take turns keeping watch during the night. At home, they leave their doors unlocked in case they have to make a quick getaway. Drivers often park their snowmobiles with keys in the ignition so they can retreat swiftly.

As habitat loss throws people and polar bears together, researchers will be studying how to mitigate danger to both populations. Respectful stewardship can foster a shared future that benefits humans and protects the remarkable creatures on our planet.

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