International Polar Bear Day
Next: February 27, 2027
Snug in the den, mother and cubs.
The story
Where it comes from
International Polar Bear Day was founded by Polar Bears International, a conservation group that studies and protects the bears across the Arctic. It chose 27 February because at this time of year polar bear mothers and their newborn cubs are tucked up together in snow dens. Denning is the most vulnerable time in a polar bear's life, and in a warming Arctic the survival of every cub matters, so the day puts its focus on protecting these families.
How it's celebrated
Polar Bears International holds live talks with its scientists, shares the latest research on denning families and invites supporters to start fundraisers or give to its work, and to speak up for denning families. The group even offers a free polar bear e-card, so sending one to a friend is a fitting way to join in.
Did you know
- Newborn cubs are blind and toothless and weigh little more than half a kilogram.
- On average only about half of all cubs reach adulthood.
- Scientists estimate that there are about 26,000 polar bears in the world.
Coming up next
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- World Wildlife Day · March 3, 2027