It was in 2006 that scientists were alerted to a polar and
grizzly bear hybrid. Now, LiveScience.com reports that
researchers have discovered scores of further examples of Arctic
creatures who are mating outside their species. The news
provider reports that the data was compiled by Brendan Kelly of
the National Marine Mammal Laboratory, who noted at least 34
cases of hybrid animals. "The greatest concern is species that
are already imperiled," said Kelly, first author of the Nature
comment. "Interbreeding might be the final straw." Other hybrids
that were discovered in the Arctic region were crosses between
narwhal and beluga whales, as well as ringed and ribbon seals.
The news source reports that hybrid animals are likely to push
those endangered species into extinction. While global warming
is hurting all sorts of animals, polar bears are especially at
risk. The warmer weather is forcing the animals to venture to
land where food is scarce. Because of this, the endangered
creatures are slowly dying of starva