Polar bears live in the Arctic, primarily on the sea ice that covers the Arctic Ocean and surrounding regions. Their range includes parts of Canada, Alaska (USA), Russia, Greenland, and Norway (Svalbard) - collectively known as the five polar bear range states

. They depend on the sea ice for hunting seals, their main prey, as well as for resting, breeding, and denning. The sea ice habitat is essential because it provides a platform from which they hunt and raise their young. Polar bears are not found in Antarctica; they are exclusive to the northern polar region

. The Arctic sea ice habitat is dynamic, expanding in winter and retreating in summer, so polar bears follow the ice to access food. Some polar bears spend more time on land when sea ice diminishes, which can lead to nutritional stress and increased encounters with humans

. In summary, polar bears live across the circumpolar Arctic sea ice regions of:

• Canada
• Alaska (USA)
• Russia
• Greenland
• Norway (Svalbard)

They are closely tied to the presence of sea ice in these areas for survival