Polar bears see, hear, and smell better standing up than they do down on all fours. Getting up on two legs for a polar bear is like the equivalent of a person standing up on a chair for a clearer view of what’s around them.
The Tundra Buggies of Churchill, Manitoba give off a number of aromas, including food and people. Hanging around the vehicle this bear gets a whiff of something that it needs to investigate. A curious polar bear may utilize all its senses, not just its nose, to get a better understanding of its surroundings. Cubs in particular get an improved vantage point by standing on their hind legs. But an adult will show this behavior if something really gets their attention. Careful when spotting one, though; polar bears can stand over ten feet tall on their hind legs! Check out the clip:
