Today a polar bear was sighted about a mile away from the USCGC Healy. The bear was spotted when the Healy was traveling through thicker ice at approximately 82°40’ 46” N Latitude and 174°34’ 57” W Longitude.  According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the polar bear is listed as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act.  They are specially adapted to live in the icy Arctic with their water repellent coat, white coloring, and small suction cups on their feet.  The polar bear primarily eats ringed seals.

Polar bear on the ice in the Arctic Ocean. Photograph courtesy of Lisa Robbins.

Polar bear habitat in Alaska. Source: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service