Students on Ice days 7-9: The stuff dreams are made of

“Three Bears!” I shouted as I burst onto the bridge of the ship after spotting the first polar bears of our Arctic journey. While the Russian officer looked at me rather skeptically, after spotting them as well, the ship stopped so that we could spend time observing this magnificent bear with her two cubs swimming gracefully through the water. As if posing for our ship, the bears eventually emerged on to the sea ice where they spent their time lounging, playing, and goofing around before settling down for a nap. It was a magical moment never to forget.
On that same day we saw an additional six bears in a variety of circumstances. From the water to ice, to land, the Nanuq (Inuk for Polar Bear) are as majestic as they appear on TV and on the pages of National Geographic. They are truly captivating. We were also lucky enough to spend some time observing a mother Walrus and her pup hauled out on the sea ice. I couldn’t have dreamed a better wildlife day, and feel like it was one I will remember always.

(C) Carolyn Dawe, WWF-Canada

The time on the ship is sailing by. Friendships have solidified amongst the students, and it is becoming apparent why we are here. It is so motivating to see students from so many cultures and backgrounds sharing their knowledge with each other. Workshops are diverse ranging from learning about the Land Claims Agreement, to Storytelling, to Climate Change 101, to topographic mapping.
Next post will detail out trip up the coast of Baffin Island, and our visit to the town of Quikiqtarjuaq.