The tangagumak are ursine humanoids native to cold northern climates that resemble upright polar bears, save with grasping hands and the glint of intelligence in their dark eyes. Though they are fierce hunters, the tangagumak are a peaceful race and slow to anger unless their families are threatened, in which case they are brave and merciless. Tangagumak society is tribal, usually led by elder female chiefs, with senior hunters, priests, and warriors making up an advisory council. Most communities make their living by hunting, fishing, and whaling. Skilled swimmers, tangagumak do not use boats, preferring to face the fish, seals, and whales of the frozen seas on their own, armed only with their teeth and claws. Tangagumak are also superb artisans and crafters, creating fine weapons and armor, as well as splendid carvings and other works of art.