How does the stiff hairs on bottom of polar feet help it to survive in its natural habitat?

You're likely thinking of the bristles on the bottom of a polar bear's paws, not "stiff hairs". These bristles are actually incredibly important for their survival in the Arctic!

Here's how they help:

* Increased Traction: The bristles act like tiny gripping claws, providing the polar bear with excellent traction on the ice and snow. This is crucial for walking, running, and hunting on slippery surfaces. Imagine trying to chase a seal on a sheet of ice without any grip - the bristles make all the difference!

* Stability on Slippery Surfaces: The bristles create a larger surface area for the paws to contact the ice, improving their balance and stability. This is especially important when hunting seals on thin ice or navigating uneven terrain.

* Sound Reduction: The bristles also help to muffle the sound of the polar bear's footsteps, allowing them to approach prey undetected. This is a critical advantage when stalking seals on the ice.

* Heat Insulation: While not their primary function, the bristles also offer a slight degree of insulation, helping to keep the paws warm in frigid temperatures.

In short, these tiny bristles are a crucial adaptation that helps polar bears thrive in their challenging Arctic environment. They are essential for movement, hunting, and overall survival!