Polar bears, Thalarctos maritimus, are inhabitants of the Arctic, although they are found as far as 750 miles (1,200 km) south of the Arctic Circle. Their ventures that far south normally are for food. They seek settlements to raid garbage dumps. Polar bears may be up to 11 feet (3.3 m) long and weigh more than 1,500 pounds (680 kg). Their white fur provides excellent camouflage in the snowy environment of their home. On the soles of their feet polar bears have fur, which keeps them from slipping on ice.