Bears are unique in that they go into a "semi-hibernation"stage in the winter. Their metabolism slows down, but they are not in a deep sleep like true hibernators. They do not defecate or urinate in their winter den. The young are born in the den in mid-winter, and are nursed from a tiny size to well-developed cubs, when they emerge from the den in the spring.

They are also unique in their reproductive process, bears have delayed implantation. They breed in mid-summer but conception is delayed until fall. At that time, the females body condition determines how many embryos develop. Thus, only females in best physical condition tend to have multiple cubs, often, twins, or triplets, occasionally more. Females in poor condition may have no young. Thus, nutritional levels can limit reproductive rates, and the degree of stress on breeding females.

Polar bears are considered marine mammals as they spend much of their time in the icy waters of the Arctic and sub Arctic. They travel from ice flow to ice flow seeking seals,their primary winter food. The rapid reduction of ice, caused by global warming is a threat to the future existence of the "Great White Bear"

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