Buzz
Bears are some of the most formidable predators in nature, armed with enough size, power, and strength to overpower nearly any prey. But what happens if a bear starts using tools as part of its attack strategy?
The consequence could be disastrous for walruses. A fresh study published in the scientific journal *Arctic* reveals that polar bears may be using tools to strike walruses. This behavior was once considered an invention of cartoons.
The idea is rooted in Inuit legends that have documented polar bears using rocks and other heavy objects to attack walruses resting below cliffs. Initially thought to be myths, these accounts have now been validated by researchers at the University of Alberta, Edmonton. After a detailed review, scientists found these stories to be credible. Though uncommon, it seems polar bears do indeed use available heavy objects—rocks or ice chunks—to strike at walruses.
Walruses present a formidable challenge to polar bears, with their enormous size (about 2500 pounds) and thick skulls making them hard to defeat. By using a weapon, polar bears may have a better chance of taking down a walrus.
The article mentions GoGo, a polar bear kept in captivity at a Japanese zoo, who has been seen tossing sticks and a tire at food just out of reach, attempting to knock it down. Similarly, polar bears in Alaska have been spotted throwing ice at seals. It seems reasonable to believe that polar bears might attempt to crush walrus skulls using the nearest available object.
