We have replaced Thursday’s video post of Inuk guides working for Arctic Kingdom. Upon receiving information from a trusted source we have learned that the group encourages baiting and herding bears for the benefit of photographers. This is an unconscionable practice as it not only exploits and harasses the polar bears but jeopardizes their lives by placing them in strenuous situations where they could be shot if they approach too closely. The human interaction also breaks down the natural barrier between the animals and humans which could cause life or death situations later on.
These classic shots remind us all that those stoic, cuddly – looking polar bears in Churchill deep down quite ferocious and dangerous. The way they slowly amble across the tundra lulls travelers and photographers into a sense of awe at their majestic beauty. Please don’t pet the polar bears!
Polar bear on the outside trying to get into the ship. Kyrakos Kaziras/Rex photo.
Polar bear intent on getting in. Steve Selden photo.
Polar bear trying to get in the vehicle in Churchill. Steve Selden photo.
Mother and her cub on the tip of Eskimo Point. Moira Le Patourel photo.
When you think summer in Churchill you usually think beluga whales, tundra wildflowers and amazing numbers of migratory life – list birds. Polar bears are generally not on traveler’s radar though summer bear activity has become more of the norm these days. When I guided Churchill arctic summer trips, polar bear activity usually ramped up in August and it was always an incredible surprise when groups did see the king of the arctic in their natural habitat. These days expectations have grown and polar bears seem to surface or rather emerge from the Hudson Bay on a more regular basis and even in July. Although there’s no guarantee, the chances of venturing to Churchill and seeing polar bears in summer have grown dramatically. Churchill Arctic Summer can be an incredible jackpot of natural wonders!
Polar bear sow and cub in the Hudson Bay. Stephanie Fernandez photo.
Curious polar bear checking out travelers. Natural Habitat Adventures photo.
Polar bear on the rocks in Churchill. Photo Rhonda Reid.
Polar bear on the rocks, Churchill,MB. Natural Habitat Adventures photo.
Churchill has four seasons that all seemingly blend into one. There are distinctions between the seasons, mostly temperature to a certain “degree” (see what I did there), as well as different wildlife viewing opportunities. Fantastic northern lights are more visible during the heart of winter though can be seen in fall and even summer with the right conditions. Beluga whales and certain migratory birds prevail only in summer although this past ‘fall’ the whales opted to stick around for awhile during the onset of polar bear season.
With all these amazing sights in Churchill there has been more overlapping of viewing possibilities over the past decade. Polar bears are arriving on land earlier and in greater numbers throughout the summer, a likely repercussion of global warming. This year in particular polar behavior has changed and we are seeing more scavenging in the form of seal – kills and other foraging on the tundra. Adaptation right before our eyes?
Whales, bears, birds, northern lights or beautiful tundra can be seen throughout the year in Churchill. Come see what this amazing region of the sub – Arctic can tantalize you with in any season!
Permafrost contains tons of carbon. Ed Bouvier photo.
Northern lights with Churchill in the background. Katie de Meulles photo.
Churchill sled dog. Brad Josephs photo.
Beluga up close and personal with snorkelers in the Churchill River. Alex De Vries – Magnifico photo.
Polar bear curious of camera on polar rover. Natural Habitat photo.
Polar bear in the fireweed in Churchill. Dennis Fast photo.
Winter has settled in to the Churchill region. Polar bears are out on Hudson Bay pack ice in search of seal meals in order to stockpile fat for energy supplies that will keep them alive during the ice free months on land. this is the life cycle of the king of the Arctic. Enjoy this look into their incredible lives!
