Characterization of polar bear (Ursus maritimus) diets in the Canadian High Arctic

Climate-driven changes in the quality and availability of sea ice habitat (e.g., spatial extent, thickness, and duration of open water) are expected to affect Arctic species primarily through altered foraging opportunities. However, trophic interactions in Arctic marine systems are often poorly understood, especially in remote high-latitude regions. We used quantitative fatty acid signature analysis to examine the diets of 198 polar bears (Ursus maritimus) harvested between 2010 and 2012 in the subpopulations of Baffin Bay, Gulf of Boothia, and Lancaster Sound. The objective was to characterize diet composition and identify ecological factors supporting the high density of polar bears in these regions. Polar bears across the study area fed primarily on ringed seals (Pusa hispida, 41–56 %), although bearded seals (Erignathus barbatus, 11–24 %) and beluga whales (Delphinapterus leucas, 15–19 %) were also important prey. Harp seals (Pagophilus groenlandicus) were a major food source in Baffin Bay. Dietary diversity was greatest in Baffin Bay, perhaps because marine mammals were attracted to the nutrient-rich waters in and downstream from the North Water Polynya. Foraging patterns differed across age and sex classes of polar bear. In Baffin Bay, adult females had high levels of bearded seal in their diet, whereas adult males and subadults consumed high levels of harp seal. Seasonal variation in polar bear foraging was related to known migration patterns of marine mammals. Our results add to existing evidence that polar bears in these three separate subpopulations have a shared conservation status.