|
|
 |
 |
Melting Sea Ice in the Arctic Threatens Polar Bears
Melting ice in the Arctic sea is making it harder for polar bears to find food. Unlike people, polar bears don't eat year-round. Polar bears gather a large amount of the food that they need for energy each year between the months of April and mid-July. During this time they trek across the frozen sea, hunting for seals. But now, due to warming weather, this sea ice is melting beneath their feet. Polar bears now have 24 days less for storing up food.
The disappearing ice has forced polar bears off the sea and on to the land much earlier in the year. Unlike the sea ice, there is little food for polar bears on land. Some have turned to desperate acts. There have even been reports of polar bears eating other polar bears!
There is still a large population of polar bears. Scientists say between 22,000 and 27,000. Now the United States government is examining whether the bears should be given protection under Endangered Species Act. If that happens the bears and their habitat would be eligible for extra protections that could help them survive.
|
|
 |
|
|
|
|
