Abstract
Introduction
Human presence in the polar regions of Antarctica and the Arctic continues to increase. These areas have 3 known potential human predators: polar bears (Ursus maritimus), killer whales (Orcinus orca), and leopard seals (Hydrurga leptonyx).
Objective
The purpose of this study is to examine the existing evidence of documented attacks on humans by potential polar predators. These data are then utilized in an attempt to assess the level of risk to people living in or traveling to these areas.
Methods
This is a retrospective case series providing a descriptive review of the medical and nonmedical literature of any documented human attacks by polar bears, killer whales, or leopard seals. This study was not limited by any specified period.
Results
Reports of 11 fatalities and more than 100 serious attacks on humans by polar bears were found documented. Wild killer whales have been linked to 1 direct human attack, which was not in a polar region, 5 additional cases of perceived potential human attacks, and no documented human fatalities. Although there are many accounts of leopard seals attacking inflatable boats, only 3 direct human attacks, resulting in 1 fatality, have been documented.
Conclusions
Human attacks, and even more so fatalities, by potential polar predators are exceedingly rare in comparison with number of interactions. Polar bears pose the highest risk to humans for injury or death. Although there have always been relatively limited interactions and avoidance behaviors have been practiced, this review takes into consideration the ever-increasing number of polar predator and human encounters. As with all wildlife, a healthy respect should be held for the animals themselves, and their potential for human harm should be appreciated.