From Polar Bears to Permafrost: Churchill’s Changing Arctic

Churchill offers a rare convergence of Arctic wildlife and climate research in one accessible location. In late summer, thousands of beluga whales gather in the Churchill River, while polar bears move along the Hudson Bay coastline as they wait for sea ice to form.

Why Is Churchill One of the Best Places in the World to Study Arctic Wildlife and Climate Change?

Positioned where boreal forest transitions into tundra, this region supports both marine and terrestrial species within an ecosystem undergoing rapid change. This overlap allows participants to contribute to multiple research efforts in a single expedition, working alongside scientists to observe wildlife and document environmental change across tundra, coastal and marine environments.

Quick Facts—From Polar Bears to Permafrost: Churchill’s Changing Arctic

• Location: Churchill, Manitoba, Canada

• Research partner: Churchill Northern Studies Center and collaborating researchers

• Primary species: Beluga whales and polar bears

• Key activity: Marine wildlife research, tundra-based observation and environmental data collection

• Conservation focus: Understanding climate impacts on Arctic wildlife, permafrost and shifting ecosystems
  
  

What Wildlife Will I See on a Churchill's Changing Arctic Expedition?

Beluga whales and polar bears are the primary focus, but the Churchill region supports a diverse range of subarctic wildlife across marine, tundra and boreal transition zones. Wildlife sightings vary by location and conditions, with belugas most active in river and coastal waters and land species encountered across tundra and inland habitats.

Most Likely

• Beluga whales in the Churchill River and Hudson Bay

• Polar bears along the tundra and coastline

• Shorebirds and waterfowl along wetlands and coastal areas

Medium Likelihood

• Arctic foxes moving across tundra

• Sandhill cranes and other migratory birds

• Snowshoe hares in shrub and tundra habitats

Rare

• Caribou in tundra and boreal transition zones

• Snowy owls (more typical outside this season)

• Seals along the Hudson Bay coastline

• Wolves in remote areas
  

What Is the Climate Like on a Churchill's Changing Arctic Expedition?

Churchill experiences cool, variable conditions during August and September, with weather influenced by proximity to Hudson Bay. Temperatures are generally mild compared to winter, but wind, moisture and time on the water can make conditions feel significantly colder.

Fieldwork takes place in exposed environments on both land and water, where participants should expect changing conditions throughout the day, including wind, rain and periods of fog.

What Should I Pack for a Churchill’s Changing Arctic Expedition?

Participants should pack for cool, windy and highly variable subarctic conditions, with clothing suited to both land-based and marine fieldwork. Recommended items include:

• Layered clothing (base layers and insulating mid-layers)

• Warm jacket suitable for wind and cold conditions

• Waterproof rain jacket and rain pants

• Sturdy walking shoes or waterproof boots

• Warm hat and lightweight gloves

• Sunglasses and sunscreen

• Insect repellent (especially for August departures)

• Small daypack

• Refillable water bottle

A windproof outer layer is essential for time on the water during beluga research, where conditions can feel significantly colder than on land.

What Will I Experience on From Polar Bears to Permafrost: Churchill’s Changing Arctic?

Participants experience a combination of marine and tundra-based research, working alongside scientists to study beluga whales, polar bears and Arctic ecosystems. Time is spent both on the water and on land, offering a direct connection to wildlife and the changing environment.

What Does Daily Fieldwork Look Like?

Fieldwork shifts between marine and terrestrial environments, with activities shaped by weather, wildlife movement and research priorities. Participants assist with wildlife observation, data collection and environmental monitoring, depending on conditions and ongoing scientific needs.