# @thetorontozoo on Instagram

- **Type:** Image
- **Original URL:** https://www.instagram.com/p/DGk-bNDNIUT
- **Gondola URL:** https://gondola.cc/posts/29017157-thetorontozoo-instagram
- **Thumbnail:** https://img.gondola.cc/tr:w-,h-,fo-auto/postThumbnails/950bfc230b.jpg
- **Posted:** 2025-02-27T13:21:14.000+00:00
- **Account Owner:** Toronto Zoo (@thetorontozoo) — https://gondola.cc/thetorontozoo

## Caption

At this time of year, wild polar bear mothers and their newborn cubs are nestled in their dens, where the cubs remain until they are strong enough to brave the Arctic. Today we celebrate International #PolarBearDay, a day founded to coincide with this critical time in the life of polar bear🐻‍❄️

Keeping moms and cubs safe while also addressing climate change is a critical part of protecting polar bear populations. The denning period is the most vulnerable time in a polar bear’s life. And in a warming Arctic, where polar bears face enormous challenges, the survival of every single cub is critically important.

Sea ice loss due to climate change is impacting denning polar bears across the Arctic. In Svalbard, Norway—where sea ice loss is most dramatic—we are observing fewer maternal dens, as well as moms and cubs in poorer condition when they emerge from their dens. In addition, polar bear dens, which are hidden under the snow, are at risk from disturbances as human activity increases in the Arctic.

Together, we can ensure that polar bears have safe and stable denning periods, free from outside disturbances. By protecting dens, we’ll protect cubs, helping to ensure their future.

Test your Climate IQ for a chance to WIN a behind-the-scenes experience with the polar bears at your Toronto Zoo! Discover how climate change is impacting their Arctic habitat and enter by March 1, 2025, for your chance to win (LINK IN BIO) 🐻‍❄️

PLUS, tune in to todays Facebook Live at 11am to learn more 🐻‍❄️
#InternationalPolarBearDay #SaveOurSeaIce #ProtectMomsAndCubs
 
(📸: Polar Bears International)

## Stats

- **Views:** 0
- **Likes:** 3,324
- **Shares:** 0
- **Comments:** 5

## Tags

saveourseaice, polarbearday, protectmomsandcubs, internationalpolarbearday

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