JOURNAL ARTICLE

In a twist, polar bears are getting fatter in the Norwegian Arctic: With sea ice dwindling, the massive predators are relying more on land-based food sources such as reindeer.

  • Published In: Sciencemag.org, 2026. P. N.PAG 1 of 3

  • Database: Applied Science & Technology Source Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Cornwall, Warren 3 of 3

Abstract

The article focuses on the surprising health and adaptability of polar bears in Norway's Svalbard archipelago amidst declining sea ice due to climate change. Over the past two decades, polar bears in this region have gained weight, contrary to expectations, as they have shifted their diet to include more land-based food sources like reindeer and bird eggs, while also benefiting from higher densities of seals. Despite this positive trend, experts caution that the long-term survival of polar bears remains dependent on sea ice, and the overall prognosis for polar bears across the Arctic is still concerning due to ongoing climate impacts. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:Sciencemag.org. 2026/01, pN.PAG
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Zoology
  • Publication Date:2026
  • Accession Number:191263860
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