Why Don’t Polar Bear Paws Slip on Ice?

What Crafty Clover says in this video

Intro

Hi there, curious minds! I'm Crafty Clover! Let's discover something amazing. Why don’t polar bear paws slip on ice?

The Big Idea

Polar bear paws do not slip on ice because they are covered with tiny bumps! The bumps grip the ice like a rubber doormat. And their huge paws spread out the bear's weight, too.

Little Bumps

Step one: tiny bumps. The bottoms of polar bear paws are covered with small bumps called papillae. They work like tiny grips that hold on to the ice.

Wide Paws

Step two: huge paws. Polar bear paws can be up to a foot wide. They spread out the bear's weight, so it can walk on thin ice or snow without sinking in.

Furry Toes

Step three: furry toes. Thick fur between the toes keeps the feet warm. It also adds extra grip, like a winter boot.

A Closer Look

Let's take a closer look! A polar bear's paws are wide and strong. The bottoms are covered in tiny bumps. Fur grows between the toes. All together, they grip the ice.

Quick Facts

Quick facts! Polar bears also use their big front paws as paddles when they swim. They are excellent swimmers and can swim for many miles. A thick layer of fur and fat keeps them warm in the water. Never walk on ice alone. Always stay with a grown-up, and keep a safe distance from wild bears.

Think Like a Scientist

Now, think like a scientist! Rub your hand on a smooth tile, then on a rough doormat. Which one gives a better grip? The bumps on a bear's paw work like the doormat! Share what you discover with a grown-up.

Outro

Tiny bumps and wide paws help polar bears walk on ice. Science is amazing! Crafty Clover can be found on Amazon Books, Google Bookstore, and Apple Books. Available for purchase or download! Bye for now!