Rare Polar Bear Shot in Remote Icelandic Village Sparks Debate

In a remote Icelandic village, authorities made the difficult decision to shoot a rare polar bear that had wandered too close to human habitation. The incident, which occurred on 2024-09-19, has reignited discussions about how to handle these infrequent visitors from Greenland.

Helgi Jensson, Westfjords Police Chief, explained the situation: "It's not something we like to do. In this case, the bear was very close to a summer house with an elderly woman inside." The resident, who was alone, locked herself upstairs as the bear searched through her garbage. She contacted her daughter in Reykjavik via satellite link for assistance.

Polar bears, known scientifically as Ursus maritimus or "sea bear," are not native to Iceland. They occasionally arrive on ice floes from Greenland, approximately 300 kilometers away. Anna Sveinsdóttir, director of scientific collections at the Icelandic Institute of Natural History, noted that only 600 polar bear sightings have been recorded in Iceland since the 9th century.

While polar bears are a protected species in Iceland, authorities may euthanize them if they pose a threat to humans or livestock. This policy stems from a 2008 incident when two bears arrived, prompting a task force study. The group concluded that euthanasia was the most appropriate response, citing threats to people and animals, and the high cost of relocation.

Interestingly, polar bears are the only bear species considered marine mammals. They can swim for days at a time and reach speeds of up to 6 mph in water. These magnificent creatures can weigh up to 1,500 pounds and live 25-30 years in the wild.

The bear in this incident, estimated to weigh between 150 and 200 kilograms, will be studied by scientists at the Icelandic Institute of Natural History. They will examine it for parasites and infections, evaluate its physical condition, and possibly preserve the pelt and skull for their collection.

Polar bears face numerous challenges, including climate change, which has led to their classification as a vulnerable species. Their incredible adaptations, such as black skin under white fur (which is actually transparent) and the ability to smell seals up to 1 km away, highlight the importance of conservation efforts.

As Iceland grapples with these rare visitors, the incident serves as a reminder of the complex relationship between human settlements and wildlife. The last polar bear sighting in Iceland before this was in 2016, emphasizing the rarity of such events.

"She knew the danger."

Following the incident, authorities conducted a helicopter survey of the area but found no other bears. The woman who reported the bear decided to extend her stay in the village, demonstrating resilience in the face of this unusual encounter.