Urban Survival Stories: Unusual Tourists in an Alaskan Town

The small Alaskan town of Kaktovik is experiencing an unusual tourist boom, and many of the visitors are very, very hungry.

You guessed it – they’re polar bears!!

Thanks to special adaptations, such as a thick layer of blubber and two layers of fur, polar bears are able to thrive in the frigid temperatures of Alaska, even in temperatures as low as -50° Fahrenheit! (Now that’s COLD!!) However, scientists tell us that climate change is rapidly warming the earth, which is beginning to melt much of the sea ice polar bears survive on. This hurts bears, because they need to spend large amounts of time on the sea ice in order to hunt seals, a primary food source.

Luckily, the resourceful bears have found a way to adapt. Each August they arrive by the dozens to feast on the remains of whales killed by local hunters in the town of Kaktovik. Tourists (the human kind!) report being mesmerized by the majestic animals, whose typical white fur has turned brown from the muddy shoreline.

You can watch this video about the Kaktovik polar bears from ABC news:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8eLjlGxHxlM

What is Climate Change?

Climate change is the warming of the Earth caused by pollution in part from cars, energy power plants and deforestation of the world’s trees.

How Kids Can Help

Here are just a few important things you can do to help reduce climate change:

- Use our cars less (walk or take public transport whenever possible)

- Use energy efficient light bulbs (these are available in most household stores — encourage your parents and teachers to buy them!)

- Recycle more and avoid products that have lots of packaging.

- Turn off electric devices when you're not using them.

For more information you can google, “How kids can help climate change” or visit the American Museum of Natural History’s website: https://www.amnh.org/explore/ology

Sources: ABC News, Condé Nast Traveler, American Museum of Natural History