If you love nature and would like to have a challenging and unorthodox summer job, watching polar bears in Svalbard might be the right job for you?– Regarding the documentation of hunting cabins in the Hornsund area we seek polar bear watchers for a three week period in the summer of 2013, it is written in the application text.

Hornsund is a fjord located on the south-west coast of Spitsbergen, Svalbard archipelago. According to Wikipedia, the fjord is an important habitat for polar bears and the most important area for animals located between Storfjorden and West-Spitsbergen.

There are about 3,000 polar bears in Svalbard. Earlier this spring, one was killed in Hornsund when it tried to break into a cabin with two residents.

Only a few scientists are residents in Hornsund, but the area contains several remains of whaling stations, hunting cabins, tombs and research installations.

The Governor in Svalbard says they have a great desire to recruit women and people from minority groups to the area. These groups are especially encouraged to apply.

Qualifications sought are wildlife experience, experience with polar bear security and use of firearms – as well as satisfactory conduct. Patience and courage are probably two major advantages.

Do you dare?

Text by: Anette Broteng Christiansen, Thor News

Photo: EcoWatch Wildlife Expeditions

Categories: Nature