BEHIND THE SCENE

Polar bear families generally emerge from their dens in March and April, when cubs are strong enough to survive outside and ready to make their first trek to the sea ice.

Exiting the den is a slow process. The mother will stay at or near the maternity den for several days while the cubs get used to the cold and explore the surroundings.

Once the trek proper starts, the mother will periodically stop to nurse and rest. In stormy conditions the mother bear will dig a “day den,” to protect her cubs from the elements.

The bond between mother and offspring, and between sibling and sibling, is very strong. It’s the only social structure among normally solitary polar bears to be recognized and identified by scientists. Playing, chasing, wrestling, fighting, cuddling and napping together are all part of daily life for a young bear. The cubs engage in fun and games that prepare them for their roles in life later on. Once weaned the siblings will stick together for a while hunting and playing.