Every february 27th marks the International Polar Bear Day; the polar bear is already considered an endangered species, and on this occasion, WWF Italy raises the alarm about the possibility of the Arctic king's extinction.
We think we know everything about these magnificent animals, but did you know that they are actually black and not white?
CURIOSITIES ABOUT THE ICE GIANT
The polar bear (Ursus maritimus) is the largest terrestrial carnivore on the planet and one of the most iconic species in the world. However, there are lesser-known facts about them:
- They are considered marine mammals: They are the only bears considered equivalent to seals and whales.
- They are actually black: Their fur is translucent, and they appear white to us only due to the reflection of light. Under their thick fur hides black skin.
- DNA extraction from a footprint: Two tiny snowballs from a polar bear track can detect its DNA and gender!
- They swim for hours: Their powerful paws allow them to swim quickly and for long periods of time.
- They can smell prey from several kilometers away: With their developed sense of smell, they can detect prey even under meters of snow.
SAVING THE ARCTIC KING
Polar bears need sea ice to move across vast territories and search for food. However, if the trends of polar ice cap melting and disappearance of suitable habitat continue as in recent decades, from today to 2050, we could lose up to 30% of their population.
To ensure their future, it is necessary first and foremost to fight against climate change. This requires putting pressure on governments and companies, focusing more on renewable energy sources, and drastically cutting CO2 emissions from fossil fuels, which are responsible for the greenhouse effect and rising temperatures.
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Fonte: WWF Italia
