Barents Sea bears adapt to lack of sea ice

Research published in *Scientific Reports* reveals that polar bears in the Barents Sea, north of Norway, are faring better than expected despite declining sea ice due to climate change. This subpopulation of bears has shown stable body conditions and health, potentially benefiting from alternative food sources like walruses and bird eggs. However, experts caution that this adaptation may be temporary, and further ice loss could still pose significant challenges. The study highlights the importance of understanding variability within animal populations amidst climate change.