Results of observations of migrating polar bear at the coastal rookery of Pacifi c walrus at Cape Vankarem in 2017–2025

The work to determine age and gender composition of a group of the polar bear (Ursus maritimus Phipps, 1774) was carried out at the coastal rookery of Pacific walrus (Odobenus rosmarus divergens Illiger, 1815) during our survey at Cape Vankarem (Chukotka Autonomous District) in August–October 2017–2025. Based on the analysis of photos evaluation of physical condition (fatness) and extend of attachment of the predator to this rookery was made. It has been established that immature 3–5-year-old animals stay at the rookery longer compared to adult males or females with puppies, who usually do not stay at the rookery for a long time. There were no evidenced antagonistic interactions between bears about territory and resources due to the abundance of food, as well as a direct correlation between number of the bears and the number of walruses or their remains at the rookery. The physical condition of polar bears present at the rookery generally was average or above average.