Recent reports have challenged the global warming alarmists' belief that the polar bear (Ursus maritimus) is endangered because of thinning Arctic ice caused by global warming. Disturbing pictures of bears on floating bits of ice, marooned by early melting, have surfaced in the media, often accompanied by references to debunking stories in the press.
And it is true that polar bear populations were about 5000 in the 1960s and are now between 20-25,000 throughout the Arctic region.
Well, I am going to reveal the naked, unvarnished, plain, ungilded truth about polar bear populations! Follow me below the fold--but only if ye be brave souls, for polar bears are top predators who think nothing of eating human beings, the vicious carnivores!
More information here: http://www.polarbearsinternational.o... with a summary by me following.
First, there are 19 sub-populations of polar bears throughout the Arctic, somewhat separated by open water and warmer areas. For example, there are distinct groups in Western and Eastern Hudson's Bay. In 2005 there were 5 groups in decline; in 2009, according to the International Union of Conservation of Nature (IUCN) 8 sub-populations are declining.
Second, the small population of bears in the 1960s was largely due to overhunting. Since hunting of polar bears was made illegal, there is no hunting in Canada or Alaska, and only a small amount of poaching in Russia. In the 21st century, however, many populations are showing signs of group stress, such as smaller adult bears and fewer yearlings, suggesting a more limited food supply. With cessation of hunting in Arctic North America, populations rebounded. There isn't an easy solution for the persent problem. Yes, there are more bears than in 1960, BUT there are fewer than 5 years ago, and the populations are threatened.
Third, as supporting evidence, walrus populations (which also depend on pack ice) are also in decline.
So when global warming nay-sayers hit you with this base canard, you now have the information to fight back.
Save the polar bears!!