Hobbies And Interests
Ringed Seals
The ringed seal is the smallest seal species in the world. The seal is named after the light-colored circular patterns on its body. It can dive to depths of 300 feet and stay underwater for 45 minutes. A seal will usually move about on its own. It can only be found in groups when breeding and resting. To make an escape if there is danger, seals will rest close to breathing holes and cracks in ice. The main predator for the ringed seal is the polar bear.
Narwhal
The narwhal is a light-colored porpoise found in coastal waters in the Arctic.A male narwhal will grow a long tusk tooth through its upper lip. For this reason the narwhal is called the unicorn of the sea. Female narwhals will grow either a small tusk or no tusk at all. The porpoise travels in groups of 15 to 20, although they have been spotted gathered in the hundreds. Their diet consists mainly of shrimp, squid and fish. Polar bears will often prey on narwhals, in particular those that have become trapped by shifting pack ice.
Killer Whale
Preying on the narwhal and polar bear is the killer whale. The killer whale, also known as the orca, inhabits all the oceans in the world. It lives in Arctic waters the polar bears frequent, which is why it will prey on the bear. The whale is recognized by its black and white skin, while its dorsal fin is larger for males. The whale will tear its prey apart with its teeth and swallow the meat without chewing. The whale travels in groups, or pods, and hunt together.Other prey includes other killer whales, walruses and seals.
Walrus
The walrus is native to the northern Pacific and Atlantic waters. The animal spends most of its time in coastal waters. When it's time to rest and give birth, the walrus will go onto sea ice and small rocky islands. Walruses live in large herds, often separated into male and female groups. They make an easy target for polar bears.
Arctic Fox
An animal that lives on land with the polar bear is the arctic fox. Like the polar bear, this fox is covered in a snowy white fur coat. It protects the fox from the -58 degrees Fahrenheit temperature as well as providing good camouflage. It can live three to six years in the wild. During the winter when food is scarce, the arctic fox will eat the leftovers of the polar bear's kills.