The world's largest polar bear fighting to the death

For the female only half his weight this must be a nerve-wracking encounter. The male could kill her if he chooses. But he has other intentions and she is ready and willing. She leads him to higher ground. It seems that courting polar bears prefer privacy. Often leaving the sea ice and heading for the hills to avoid the prying eyes of rival males who might disturb them. Few have witnessed this moment. For the male is only tender encounter in an otherwise solitary life. But it doesn't last long. A rival suitor has also caught the female's scent. Courtship has to be put on hold. He must fight for his rights. He sees off this first challenger without injury to either party. But bloodier battles are to come. Battle one though he has been slightly injured. He hurries back to his mate but now she seems to have lost her enthusiasm. Female polar bears are high maintenance. Mating with her when she allows and guarding her at all times. Over the next two weeks the male sees off many rivals but the battles take their toll on him. He is almost spent but he has ensured that no other bears have mated with his female. It's time for the couple to go their separate ways. She will give birth to his cubs alone in nine months time.