Polar bear mothers are among the most affectionate and protective of all of them, especially when they only have one cub.

This is probably due to the extreme environment cubs have to face when they exit their maternity dens for the first time, usually when they’re about three months old. Polar bear moms engage and play with a single cub more often, as there are no siblings to demand her attention.

Daisy Gilardini is a conservation photographer who specializes in the Polar Regions, with a particular emphasis on Antarctic wildlife and North American bears. She is a member of the International League of Conservation Photographers (ILCP), the Royal Canadian Geographical Society, a fellow of the Explorers Club, Greenpeace Antarctic Ambassador and Canadian Geographic photographer in residence. 

Follow Daisy on Instagram @daisygilardini.