Scientists in Canada have documented a rare case of a female polar bear adopting a new cub, highlighting the complex relationships among the apex Arctic predators. According to Polar Bears International, a non-profit conservation group, researchers tracking a female polar bear known as X33991 noticed she had gained a second cub of roughly the same age last month. The researchers initially placed a GPS collar on the female polar bear in the spring, and when they spotted her with two cubs, they realized they were witnessing an exceedingly rare case of adoption.

Evan Richardson, a research scientist with Environment and Climate Change Canada, said that female polar bears are known to be "really good moms" and are "primed for looking after and caring for their offspring." Richardson attributed the adoption to the female polar bear's natural instinct to care for any cub that is bawling on the coast and has lost its mother. "These females just can't help themselves but to take them on and look after them," Richardson said.

The adoption is a remarkable example of the complex social dynamics of polar bears, which are often misunderstood as solitary animals. In reality, polar bears have been observed showing empathy and cooperation towards each other, particularly among females. This behavior is crucial for the survival of polar bear cubs, which rely on their mothers for food and protection.

The adoption also highlights the challenges faced by female polar bears in the Arctic, where they must navigate harsh weather conditions, limited food resources, and human activities such as oil and gas exploration. Female polar bears are particularly vulnerable to these challenges, as they must care for their cubs while also competing for food and resources.

Polar Bears International has been studying the behavior of polar bears in the Arctic for over 30 years, and their research has shed light on the importance of female polar bears in the ecosystem. "Female polar bears are the backbone of the polar bear population," said a spokesperson for the organization. "They are the ones that care for the cubs, teach them how to hunt and survive, and pass on their knowledge and skills to the next generation."

The researchers are continuing to monitor the female polar bear and her adopted cub, and they hope to learn more about the complex social dynamics of polar bears. The adoption is a rare and remarkable example of the resilience and adaptability of polar bears in the face of climate change and human activities.