| Animal movement can be an important determinant in population dynamics. Polar bears (Ursus maritimus) move over thousands of kilometers of dynamic sea ice hunting seals, but recent decreases in sea ice thickness and extent are affecting the population in western Hudson Bay. The purpose of this research was to examine polar bear movement patterns on the ice of Hudson Bay in relation to individual reproductive status, temporal variations in sea ice, and prey distribution. Overall, movement patterns were not dependent on reproductive status, but changed significantly with season. Annual distance moved by bears in Hudson Bay has decreased since 1991, which suggests that measured declines in bear condition and numbers are due to reduced prey intake. This study is the first to quantitatively examine polar bear movement on the sea ice of Hudson Bay and presents new insights into polar bear ecology in a rapidly changing arctic ecosystem. |
