In 2015, an image of a thin polar bear raised awareness about climate change's impact on the species. While polar bears are classified as vulnerable, a 2020 study predicts local extinctions by 2100. However, a new study shows that Svalbard polar bears' body conditions have improved despite sea ice loss, with their fat reserves increasing. This may be due to recovering land-based prey and more efficient hunting. Yet, scientists warn that further ice loss could negatively affect these populations.