27.2.2026 – Source: Polar Bear International
High on a mountain slope in Svalbard, Norway, a polar bear mom cuddles with her cubs in the shelter of their snow den. Outside, Arctic winds sweep across the frigid landscape but, inside, the family stays safe and warm.
Photo: Joanna Sulich
Photo: Daniel J. Cox
We created International Polar Bear Day, February 27, to coincide with the denning period. Every year on this day, we celebrate moms and cubs and draw attention to the need to protect them across the Arctic.
Photo: Daniel J. Cox
Right now, polar bear moms and their newborn cubs are snuggled together in snow dens across the Arctic. 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.
Photo: Daniel J. Cox
International Polar Bear Day Toolkit
Photo: Meril Darees
By Alysa McCall, Staff Scientist:
As I write this, my own little cub tears around the house, demanding water and snacks and attention. She’s up and down and up and down and up … I am tired but at the same time can recognize how privileged I am. My daughter has an excellent chance of surviving to adulthood, and I’m fortunate to have all the conveniences of modern life at my fingertips to help me raise her—from grocery stores and indoor heating to FaceTiming with Nana. I can offer books or toys, keep our home safe, and turn on Baby Shark to distract for a desperately needed minute. Plus, so much coffee.
Polar bear moms have no such support. Not even close.
Photo: Dick and Val Beck
Photo: Kt Miller
Photo: Shannon Curtis
All moms work hard, but polar bears are undoubtedly some of the hardest working single moms.
Photo: Steven Amstrup
Here are some key facts about polar bear families:
We look forward to celebrating International Polar Bear Day with you and working together to ensure the polar bears’ future.
Photo: Meril Darees
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