While people tend to think that polar bears are violent or threatening to humans, they are generally solitary creatures, who only approach human settlements if hungry or curious and usually only lash out if they feel threatened or afraid. Though they are generally considered to be fairly calm, it is important to remember that polar bears are a large predator and can be unpredictable. When in polar bear country, practicing bear safety is critically important and one should never approach a polar bear for any reason.