International Polar Bear Day

What Is International Polar Bear Day?

Every year on February 27th, the world observes "International Polar Bear Day," established by Polar Bears International (PBI), a conservation organization with offices in the United States and Canada. The day aims to raise awareness of the extinction risk facing polar bears -- apex predators of the Arctic ecosystem -- and to encourage climate action to protect the sea ice they depend on.

Disappearing Sea Ice and the Crisis Facing the "King of the Arctic"

For polar bears, sea ice is an essential platform for hunting, traveling, and breeding. But climate change is causing Arctic ice to shrink year after year, making it harder for bears to catch the seals they rely on for food -- leading to starvation and declining birth rates. February 27th is a day to connect this distant reality in the far-off Arctic with our own daily lives.

The "Thermostat Challenge": What We Can Do

This observance promotes a worldwide "Thermostat Challenge" -- lowering your heating a degree or two (or raising your air conditioning setting in summer) and turning off unnecessary lights to reduce carbon emissions and help preserve Arctic ice for a little longer. February 27th is a day to recognize how each person's small choices are directly connected to the future of polar bears.

The Role of Zoos in Conservation

Zoos around the world mark this day with special enrichment activities and educational events for their polar bears. Zoos play an important role as "ambassadors" -- both researching ways to protect wild populations and helping educate the public about environmental issues. February 27th is a day to let the charm of the bears in front of you spark thoughts about global conservation.

Facts and Trivia About Polar Bears

• Black skin: Beneath their white fur, polar bears actually have black skin -- a color thought to help absorb heat.
• Transparent fur: Their fur looks white but is actually made of hollow, transparent hairs that scatter light (making it appear white) while also providing excellent insulation.
• Master swimmers: Polar bears can swim long distances; one study found that their long swims lasted an average of 3.4 days and covered about 150 km.
• Keen sense of smell: Their large olfactory system is adapted for smelling prey over long distances.
• Vulnerable species: Polar bears are listed as "Vulnerable" on the IUCN Red List.

Protecting a Future Where the White King Still Roams

International Polar Bear Day is a day to think of other species as fellow members of our planetary family. Polar bears roaming vast ice fields are a powerful symbol of nature's richness. On February 27th, let's make a few small, planet-friendly updates to our lifestyles so future generations can still see this beautiful sight.

Ideas for Observing International Polar Bear Day

• Take small energy-saving actions at home, like lowering the thermostat by one degree or turning off lights more often
• Watch a documentary or read a book about polar bear ecology and climate change to deepen your understanding
• Follow a zoo's social media to check in on how their polar bears are doing and show your support
• Start one new environmentally friendly habit, like using a reusable bag or reducing waste

Cold Yet Warm: Thoughts for the Arctic

February 27th is a day to imagine the cold breath of the distant Arctic and take a fresh look at our own way of living. Protecting polar bears ultimately means protecting our own rich environment as well. May today be a gentle yet powerful step toward thinking about both "the temperature of the planet" and "hope for the future."