Home / Environment / Polar Bear Finds Arctic Chill in Oregon Zoo Ice Bath
Polar Bear Finds Arctic Chill in Oregon Zoo Ice Bath
14 Jun
Summary
- Kallik, a three-year-old polar bear, enjoyed an ice bath at the Oregon Zoo.
- Polar bears have adaptations like thick fur and fat to withstand extreme cold.
- These adaptations mean polar bears must actively cool down to avoid overheating.
As temperatures began to climb, Kallik, a three-year-old polar bear residing at the Oregon Zoo, found a delightful way to stay cool. A video shared by the zoo captured Kallik enthusiastically diving into and playing in an ice bath, rolling and even nudging the camera. This playful behavior highlights the natural adaptations of polar bears for their native Arctic environments.
Polar bears possess specialized features like two layers of fur and a thick layer of fat, enabling them to endure extreme cold, with temperatures as low as -40°C to -46°C. These adaptations are so effective that adult males can overheat easily when active. Therefore, activities like ice baths are essential for them to regulate their body temperature and avoid succumbing to heat.
