Polar bear attacks on humans are rare but can be serious. Understanding the behaviors that lead to these incidents and knowing how to respond is important for safety in Arctic regions.
How Often Do Polar Bears Attack?
Polar bear attacks on humans are statistically infrequent. Between 1870 and 2014, 73 confirmed attacks occurred across the five polar bear range states: Canada, Greenland, Norway, Russia, and the United States, resulting in 20 fatalities and 63 injuries. Globally, only one to three polar bear attack instances occur per year.
The frequency of these attacks has changed over time, with the period between 2010 and 2014 seeing the highest number on record. This increase coincided with historically low sea ice, which can bring bears and humans into closer proximity. Most attacks since 2000 have occurred between July and December, when sea ice is at its annual minimum.
Understanding the Causes of Attacks
Several factors can motivate a polar bear to attack, with hunger being a primary driver. Nutritionally stressed adult male polar bears are particularly likely to pose a threat to human safety. Studies indicate that 61% of bears involved in attacks were in below-average body condition, suggesting desperation for food. When their primary prey, seals, become harder to find due to sea ice changes, bears may seek alternative food sources, including humans.
Defense is another reason for attacks, particularly when a mother bear is protecting her cubs. Female polar bears are highly protective and may attack if they perceive a threat to their young, even if unintentional. Such defensive attacks are often reactive rather than predatory. However, unlike some other bear species, polar bears rarely attack in defense of a carcass.
Curiosity can also play a role in polar bear encounters, sometimes escalating into an attack. Polar bears are naturally inquisitive, and anything unusual in their environment, such as a campsite or human presence, can attract their attention. While an initial approach might be driven by curiosity, it can quickly turn aggressive, especially if the bear feels threatened or provoked.
Preventing Encounters
Proactive measures minimize the risk of a polar bear encounter. Managing food and waste is essential, as bears are attracted to scents. Using bear-resistant containers and securing waste minimizes odors, preventing bears from being drawn to human settlements or campsites. Electric fences or alarm systems can also provide additional protection around camps.
Travelers in polar bear country should always carry deterrents, such as bear spray or noisemakers. Bear spray has proven highly effective against polar bears, stopping undesirable behavior in 18 out of 19 incidents in one study, even in cold or windy conditions. Traveling in groups is advised, as larger groups can appear more formidable and are less likely to be approached by bears.
Maintaining awareness of surroundings is important. Avoiding areas known for high polar bear activity, such as denning sites, coastal bluffs, or marine mammal carcasses, reduces the likelihood of a surprise encounter. If a bear is sighted from a distance, quietly backing away and making a wide detour helps avoid attracting its attention.
What to Do in a Polar Bear Encounter
If an encounter with a polar bear becomes unavoidable, remain calm. Prepare any available deterrents, such as bear spray, and avoid running, as this can trigger a chase response. Polar bears can run surprisingly fast, reaching speeds of up to 25 miles per hour. Instead, group up with others to appear larger and make loud noises to deter the bear.
If the bear continues to approach or charges, stand your ground. Wave your arms, shout, and use noisemakers to make yourself seem more threatening. If the bear makes physical contact, fight back immediately and aggressively. Unlike some other bear species, playing dead is not an effective strategy against a polar bear, as they often view humans as potential prey. Focus on striking sensitive areas like the bear’s nose and eyes.