Student Article

Polar bears are suffering from painful ice blocks on their paws, some as large as 12 inches in diameter, according to a recent study by scientists from the University of Washington. These ice blocks are causing deep, bleeding lacerations and making it difficult for the bears to walk or run.

Melty days, icy nights

The researchers discovered this issue while studying polar bear populations in Canada and Greenland. They found that the ice blocks form due to frequent freeze-thaw cycles caused by climate change. The ice melts and refreezes, adhering to the bears' foot pads and causing pain. In the Kane Basin population, 31 out of 61 polar bears showed evidence of ice-related injuries. In East Greenland, 15 out of 124 polar bears had similar lesions. The scientists believe that the gradual warming of the high Arctic is to blame for these injuries.

Paws designed for ice

Polar bears have bumps on their foot pads to help them grip the ice, but these bumps also provide a surface for slushy snow to freeze solid. Sled dogs in the Arctic are also being affected in the same way.

Sharp snow and frozen toes

Higher temperatures lead to thinner sea ice, allowing seawater to seep into and thaw the snow on top, which then clumps on the bears' feet and refreezes. Additionally, spells of warm weather melt the surface of the snow, which then hardens into a crust when it gets colder, causing the bears to cut their paws as they tread on it.

A call to protect the Arctic

To help polar bears, scientists emphasize the importance of reducing greenhouse gas emissions to limit climate warming and protect these majestic animals from further harm.

© Sheena Harvey / Our Media