Black Bears

American Black Bears are common in North America, their range extending from Alaska and Northern Canada to Mexico. There were about 2 million Black Bears on the continent in pre-colonial times. Later, due to massive deforestation and habitat destruction, their numbers have dropped tenfold. However, recent conservation efforts and bear hunting limitations have given a substantial boost to the Black Bear population.

There are two Black Bear species; the American Black Bear and the Asiatic Black Bear. They are believed to have descended from the same European species. Black Bears are not very large; males average 120-300lbs, and females weigh 50-200 lbs. Their shoulder height does not usually exceed 3 ft, and they can reach 7 feet tall in the upright position.

Black Bears have dark fur, but it is brown on the muzzle and chest. There are some color differences between western and eastern Black Bears: western Bears feature lighter coat than eastern species. There are also species with bluish coats, which are found in Canada and British Columbia.

Black Bears, like all other Bear species, are famous for their ability to adapt in the wild. Being omnivorous, they inhabit densely vegetated and forested areas, preferring places with thick ground vegetation. Black Bears are solitary and territorial. However, if there is enough food, they do not usually get involved in conflicts. Males are assertive in claiming their rights for territory and sexual possession. They do not usually take any part in weaning the young. In some cases, males kill baby Bears produced by other males. It has been observed that in such cases they tend to kill young males.

Black Bears inhabiting northern areas reproduce seasonally, while those residing in southern regions breed year round. Litters usually contain 2-3 cubs. Young are born hairless, toothless and blind. The young feed on the mother’s milk until they grow up a little and start feeding on their own. The cubs stay around the mother for about 3 years, and reach sexual maturity by age of 6-7 years. In the wild, Black Bears live 20-25 years, while the life span of an average wild bear does not usually exceed 10-15 years. Although Black Bears are feared for their alleged aggressive attitude toward humans, they prefer to avoid contact with people.