Anthropogenic food: an emerging threat to polar bears

Abstract Supplemental food from anthropogenic sources is a source of conflict with humans for many wildlife species. Food-seeking behaviours by black bears Ursus americanus and brown arctos can lead to property damage, human injury mortality the offending bears. Such conflicts are well-known conservation management issue wherever people live in bear habitats. In contrast, use foods polar maritimus less common historically but growing across Arctic. Here we present six case studies that illustrate how negative food-related interactions between become either chronic or ephemeral unpredictable. Our examination suggests attractants an increasing problem, exacerbated climate change-driven sea-ice losses cause increased terrestrial habitats Growing populations visitation increase likelihood human–polar conflict. Efforts reduce conditioning include attractant management, proactive planning adequate resources northern communities improve safety. Permanent removal unsecured nutrition, conditioning, should begin immediately at local level as this will help mortality.