International Polar Bear Day is today. The day was established by the organization Polar Bears International to raise awareness of the problems polar bears are facing today. Global warming is reducing polar sea ice and thus reducing their habitat. The organization encourages people to lower their thermostats in winter and raise their thermostats in summer.
The polar bear is classified as a marine mammal because it spends so much time in ocean waters. However, it easily navigates on land and ice. It is carnivorous, preying primarily on seals. However, they will eat land mammals, birds, and eggs.
Polar Bears International chose February 27 as the day to celebrate the animals because mothers and babies are safe in their dens.