Discussions of symbolism in the geopolitical world are usually represented with metaphors of the American Eagle and the Russian Polar Bear. The two animals have become synonymous with countries United States and Russia respectively and are always present in most discourses about international relations. Does the eagle actually “hate” the bear and why might that be so? Let’s look at some deeper historical, political and cultural context to understand the intriguing relationship.
If we take the American Eagle and the Russian Polar Bear as real animals instead of political symbols, this question becomes a fun ride into nature and biology.
Do Eagles and Polar Bears “Hate” Each Other?
The short answer is no, because eagles and polar bears live in very different habitats and rarely, if ever, interact in the wild. Here’s why:
Habitats:
Eagles, and particularly bald eagles – a symbol of America-they are found in North America, frequently near large bodies of water, such as rivers or coasts.
Polar bears are found in the Arctic region, primarily on sea ice or tundra. Their ranges do not overlap.
Behaviour:
Animals do not “hate” as people think of it. Instead, animals are driven by the need to survive. These needs could be food or territory. Since there’s no competition or interaction between eagles and polar bears, by default, there is no animosity between them.
