Use of Sea Ice Habitat by Polar Bears

January 1, 1983

Use of Sea Ice Habitat by Polar Bears

Use of habitat by polar bears (Ursus maritimus) on coastal sea ice was investigated through observation of undisturbed polar bears and their environment. Nearshore sea ice was kept under 24-hour surveillance from 4 field camps established successively from 19 May to 19 July 1979 on island coasts bordering Barrow Strait, Northwest Territories, Canada. Two of these study areas received relatively more use by polar bears than the other 2. Polar bears also exhibited selection of sea ice types within each study area. Recorded activities of the bears included travel, play, sleep, and several hunting behaviors.

Author(s) Sandra K. Martin and Charles J. Jonkel
Volume 5
Issue
Pages 255-259
Publication Date 1 January 1983
DOI 10.2307/3872545
File Size 169.67 KB
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