Scientists with the U.S. Geological Survey are reporting a steep decline in the number of polar bears in the southern Beaufort Sea. In a study published on Monday, they show the population dropped 40 percent in the first 10 years of this century.
Between 2004 and 2007- out of 80 cubs the researchers observed, they only know of two that survived.
Jeff Bromaghin is a USGS researcher and lead author of the study. He says more cubs from that group may have survived, but the scientists didn’t see them.
Lori Townsend is the news director and senior host for Alaska Public Media. You can send her news tips and program ideas for Talk of Alaska and Alaska Insight at ltownsend@alaskapublic.org or call 907-550-8452.
