Barents Sea bears are coping without sea ice for now

Researchers analyzed 770 polar bears captured in Svalbard from 1995–2019 and found that body condition declined then recovered despite longer ice-free seasons; scientists note the change may rely on alternative land-based foods and warn the long-term outlook is uncertain.

Researchers report that a subpopulation of polar bears in the Barents Sea region has maintained body condition even as sea ice has retreated. The study used capture-mark-and-recapture data collected in the Svalbard archipelago between 1995 and 2019. Field teams recorded height, girth and other measurements as proxies for body fat and overall condition. Scientists and outside experts say the bears are using more on‑land and coastal food sources, though they caution this may not be sustainable over the long term. Key findings: - 770 polar bears were studied through live captures in Svalbard from 1995 to 2019. - After 2005, the area experienced roughly one month earlier ice breakup and about 100 additional ice-free days on average. - Body condition in the studied bears declined initially but later rebounded and stabilized. - Researchers report increased use of alternative prey, including walruses, bird eggs, whale carcasses and occasional reindeer kills. - Experts note that other polar bear subpopulations, such as those in western Hudson Bay and the Beaufort Sea, show declining condition and reproduction linked to sea ice loss. Summary: These Barents Sea bears currently maintain body condition in a changing local ecosystem by using on‑land and coastal food sources, which has so far reduced expected health impacts from longer ice-free periods. The regional findings do not alter evidence of declines in other subpopulations, and researchers say the long-term survival of polar bears as sea ice continues to shrink is uncertain. Undetermined at this time.