Exploring the Effects of Climate Change on Polar Bear Populations

How is climate change affecting polar bear populations?

A. Decreasing sea ice levels

B. Limited access to prey

Answer:

The effects of climate change on polar bear populations include decreasing sea ice levels and limited access to prey.

Polar bears, as apex predators in the Arctic ecosystem, heavily rely on sea ice for hunting seals, their primary food source. However, with global warming causing rising temperatures, sea ice levels are decreasing at an alarming rate. This loss of sea ice not only reduces the polar bear's habitat but also limits their ability to hunt for seals, as seals use sea ice as platforms to rest and give birth.

As a result, polar bears are forced to travel longer distances to find suitable hunting grounds, leading to increased energy expenditure and decreased chances of successfully catching prey. This prolonged search for food also puts additional stress on polar bear populations, especially on females with cubs.

In addition to the declining sea ice levels, the reduction in available prey due to changing ecosystems further exacerbates the challenges faced by polar bears. With their main food source becoming scarcer, polar bears are struggling to meet their nutritional needs, leading to decreased body condition and reproduction rates in some populations.