Polar bears are the largest species of bears alive today. It is also the largest extant carnivore, with adult males weighing between 350 to 700 kgs. Though polar bears are born on land, they spend most of their time out on the sea ice. In fact, their species name “maritimus”, reflects this fact – which means “maritime” bear.

Moreover, polar bears are heavily dependent on sea ice, which means they are classified as marine mammals. Their main prey are seals, especially the bearded seals (Erignathus barbatus). The bears hunt these seals by waiting near breathing holes in the sea ice. Once it senses a seal is near, it reaches inside the hole with its paw and drags the seal out. It kills the seal by biting its head, and crushing its crush.

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Also Read:

• Scientific Names of the Most Common Animals and Plants
• Mammalia – Characteristics and Classification Of Mammals
• What Is A Predator? – Types, Adaptation and Examples
• Herbivorous & Carnivorous Animals – Characteristics & Examples
• What is the Difference Between Herbivores and Carnivores?