Welcome to the POLAR BEAR'S DEN           

Quick facts:

  U. maritimus is just one of the many bear species.  The polar bear's heavy coat is most often pure white.  However, during the summer time, its coat may become yellowish in color.   The polar bear's body is elongated with shoulders that hang below the rest of the body.  Its head is small and flat with disproportionately small ears; whereas, its neck is long and lengthy.  The polar bear's feet resemble a  snow boot or swimming paddle.  Their feet are long and broad with short, thick curved claws.  The polar bear is a  large creature indeed.   Aside from the heavy weight Alaskan Kodiak brown bear, the polar bear is the largest member of the bear family.  Depending on the gender of the  polar bear , it can weigh anywhere from 400 and 1,400 pounds (Kurt, 500).

"I was inspired to do my research on the polar bear after spending a day at Lincoln Park Zoo near downtown Chicago, Illinois.  Out of all the animals I had observed that day, I found the polar bear to be most captivating.   I was really intrigued by the polar bear's morphological characteristics, physiological mechanisms, and structural makeup.  Aside from my immediate fascination with the polar bear, I realized that I knew very little about this species and was eager to learn about U. Maritimus.  I hope that you have some time to learn about the polar bear's fascinating way of life.   Sit back & Enjoy!!!"

By, Alison Kolinski