Polar bears are the largest and most impressive bear species in the world. Unfortunately, with their relatively low numbers and living in remote and inhospitable climates, they are a much rarer sight than your average black or brown bear. They spend much of the year on ice sheets on the highly remote frozen sea.
Unique
They are unique from their cousins in a few ways, including that they don’t hibernate. They spend all year hunting for their prey, which is primarily seals. They are the largest bears, and males weigh 800 pounds. They are amazing swimmers and can spend days in at a time in the cold water thanks to their fur.
Endangered
With the species being endangered and having an estimated population of 25,000, many would love the chance to see them in their natural habitat, but the Arctic Circle is hardly the place for tourists. Thankfully, there’s another place where polar bears can be spotted—Alaska.
Polar Bears In Alaska
Anchorage’s Alaska Zoo is home to a female polar bear named Cranbeary. However, for those looking to see polar bears in the wild, they’ll have to head further into the wilderness. Tours can be found that will take people to Alaska’s northern coast, which borders the Arctic Ocean.
Viewing Them By Air
For those who can afford it, Arctic Air Expeditions will take clients on a plane tour of the polar bear population in Alaska. The cost of the tour includes airfare, transport, and meals. These tours are offered from October to November.
Other Alternatives
Thankfully, if the air expedition is too pricey, there are other options available for those who still want to view polar bears in the wild. If tourists are willing to head further out to the village of Kaktovik, polar bears can be spotted along the coast of Barter Island between August and October when they leave the sea ice and get closer to land.
Kaktovik
Kaktovik is an Inupiat village and, as one can imagine, has fewer amenities than a city. Although limited, hotel rooms are available, and even vehicles can be rented. People can also charter planes, which offer unique views of the area.
View Them With A Guide
It is strongly advised that tourists view polar bears with a guide as there are strict guidelines per the Marine Mammal Protection Act and the Endangered Species Act that must be adhered to. Thankfully, a guided tour made especially with the guidelines is available.
Utgiagvik
West of Kaktovik, there is another village—Utqiagvik—located in the far north of Alaska. There are hotels to stay in, but it is less likely that tourists will see a polar bear there than in Kaktovik.
Respect The Local Culture
Alaskan natives hunt polar bears to sustain themselves and regulate how much they hunt. They have an agreement with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and are following The Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972. Tourists are advised to respect Alaskan locals and not interfere with their hunting.
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