A "panserbjørn," or armored bear, is a fictional creature from Philip Pullman's His Dark Materials series. These large, powerful bears are known for their strength and are often depicted as skilled warriors. They are unique in that they can wear armor, which enhances their combat abilities and showcases their craftsmanship. In the series, panserbjørne are intelligent beings with their own culture and traditions. They are deeply loyal and often serve as protectors for those they bond with. One of the most notable panserbjørn characters is Iorek Byrnison, who plays a significant role in the story.