In biological science, M’Clintock Channel is possibly most famous for its polar bears. The M’Clintock Channel sub-population estimate is 284 polar bears, based on mark-recapture work completed in 2000. There is low harvest on the polar bears, and the population is thought to be increasing from reduced numbers. The area has the classic flora and fauna of this part of Nunavut, incl. ringed seals, geese, gulls, turns, waders (shorebirds), etc. The M’Clintock Channel is 274 km long, and between 105 to 209 km wide, making it one of the largest channels in the Canadian Arctic Archipelago.

Polar bear research made by scientists supplemented with traditional Inuit knowledge has been the focus of the research at the M’Clintock Channel Research Cabins. For more information, please contact the Gjoa Haven Trappers and Hunters Association.