Polar Bears feeding on Remains of White-beaked Dolphins

Researchers while studying polar bears on the Arctic shores of Norway came to know the bears are now feasting on dolphins.

The bears were feasting on the remains of white-beaked dolphins, which might have been trapped under the ice. The research paper published in the journal Polar Research unveiled that it is the first time that it has been reported that dolphins have become prey of polar bears.

"White-beaked dolphins are frequent visitors to Svalbard waters in summer, but have not previously been reported this far north in early spring", said the researchers.

In April 2014, the scientists took many photos of the bears with the remains of the dolphins. Jon Aars, biologist with the Norwegian Polar Institute, said that one of the bears was quite skinny and its ribs can also been seen.

Study's lead researcher Jon said that the discovery could prove beneficial for the bears, but dolphins could not replace the seals. Warm climate could make it difficult for the predators to have sufficient amount of food.

The researchers saw that the bear finished off dolphin and then buried the remains of the second one in the snow so it could have it later. It is a common practice being used by some animals, but seen rarely in polar bears.

Andrew Derocher, a biologist, said that it has been noticed that many species can be found in lower latitudes drifting further and further north over time.