Polar Bear
by Kassie


 
Polar Bears are large white bears that live in Northern Hemisphere usually around sea ice.  Their white coat has water repellent hairs and dense under fur.  They have a short furry snout, and short furry ears.  The Polar's feet have a thick padding that protects their claws and provides traction when it walks.  They have long necks making them a streamline swimmer.

     The Polar Bear is the largest living carnivore.  Its long canine teeth allow it to be a true carnivore, the only bear that eats almost nothing but meat.  For the lack of prey in the Artic, the Polar Bear must make the most out of every meal.  An adult male can eat up to 220 pounds of meat and blubber in one meal.
Click here to return to front page

Marten
by Kassie


     The Marten is a member of the weasel family.  It is related to the mink and the badger. The Marten's length is from 19 to 25 inches, not including the tail.  They may weigh up to 3 pounds.  Marten have sharp claws which they use for climbing and holding their prey.  Large furry paws allow the Marten to travel easily over deep snow.

     Marten depend on meadow voles and red-backed voles or mice.  The Marten like to eat berries, blueberries, followed by small birds, eggs, and vegetation.  Those are probably the second most critical food source for the Marten.

     Marten are found throughout the state of Alaska.  The Marten is one of the most widely trapped animals in Alaska.
 
 

Sources:
Animals of the World
Alaska Wildlife Notebook Series
www.state.ak.us/local/akpages/FISH.GAME/notebook/notehome.htm

Click here to return to front page