About the Image(s)

Equipment used: Canon EOS R6m2, Canon RF15-35mm
Camera settings: 35.00mm, 1/640sec; f/16; ISO 1250; Manual
Lighting conditions: Natural
Post-processing steps/software used: DXO, Photoshop
Accessories used (e.g. filters, tripods): Non
Date: May 14, 2024 @ 9:26 AM
Location: Svalbard, Arctic

Note:
Polar Bear, The King of the Arctic
The polar bear – known as the King of the Arctic – is one of the world’s largest carnivores. The polar bear population in the Svalbard archipelago and Barents Sea is around 3,000.
The polar bear is considered a marine mammal as it spends most of its life on the drifting sea ice. Polar bear sightings are most common on the surrounding islands east of Spitsbergen, but you should be prepared to encounter a polar bear anywhere in Svalbard. Female polar bears give birth to their cubs in snow caves, and the cubs generally remain with their mother until they are around two years old. Their diet consists primarily of ringed seals, the most common seal species in the waters surrounding Svalbard.
Adult polar bears range in size from 200 to 800 kg. Humans are considered aliens in the polar bear habitat, and a polar bear may see us as potential prey. The polar bear is incredibly strong, and even cubs weighing under 100 kg can be extremely aggressive and dangerous.
You can encounter polar bears anywhere in Svalbard all year round. Be cautious when moving outside the settlements and preferably be accompanied by a local guide. The polar bear has been protected by international law since 1973. Hunting, luring, pursuing, feeding, or disturbing a polar bear is considered a criminal act. Anyone who blatantly violates this provision will face strict penalties.