Black Bear Information

There is a great deal of fascinating Black Bear Information bits available on the web, where you can read articles of wildlife specialists or experienced wildlife observers taking particular interest in Bear behavior and sharing with us their own Bear observance experiences. The American Black Bear (Ursus Americanus) is the most common Ursidae species in North America. This is the smallest Bear species in the world. He is about 2-3 ft high at the shoulders, and when standing upright, he can reach 5-7 ft high. Males average 150-300 lbs in weight, but on rare occasions, they can weigh up to 500 lbs. Females are much smaller than males, and their maximum weight does not usually exceed 200 lbs.

Black Bears are easily distinguishable through their black coat, which is brown on the muzzle and chest. However, there are Black Bears with lighter coats, and they are more common in western parts of the continent. There are even Bears with white-bluish coats, and they can be found in coastal areas in Canada and British Columbia. Black Bears usually dwell in forested regions and they are common in many parts of the North American continent. Today there are around 600,000 Black Bears in the wild in North America. Some Black Bear information sources state that there were more than 2 million Black Bears in America before European settlers arrived.

Black Bears are omnivorous, and they feed on leaves and twigs and may hunt small and medium-sized ground animals. Their small size permits them to climb trees with a stunning ease. They are also fast runners. Black Bears are usually lone foragers, but may tolerate other Bears if there are large amounts of food in the area. Black Bears usually fall into winter sleep, but southern species can stay active year round. Northern Black Bears breed seasonally, while southern Bears can mate any time of year. Black Bear Information sites usually provide detailed information on their feeding habits.

Young are usually born in winter. Females are very protective around their young, and they do not usually allow males to approach their dens. Some males are known to kill cubs, especially those produced by competing males. Because nursing females are protective around their cubs, they can be extremely dangerous to people. Therefore, people should be cautious in Bear areas, especially during breeding seasons. It is highly recommended to avoid overgrown places, as Black Bears often use them as cover. Many Black Bear Information sites feature tips on how to avoid occasional contact with Bears or what to do if you are faced with this formidable defender of wildlife.