Wildlife
Black Bear (Ursus americanus)
 The term “black” used to describe this species is not entirely accurate. Black bears come in a variety of colors from brown to gray and the occasional cream, although black with a brown muzzle is the most common. Brown colored black bears are often confused with brown bears but normally Brown bears are much larger. Black bears also have a smaller, more pointed head with a straight profile. Brown bears have a more rounded head and dished-shaped face along with a distinctive hump on their shoulders that is lacking in the black bear. Average male black bears weigh between 180 to 200 pounds depending on the season and stand over two feet tall at the shoulder. Females are usually around 120 to 150 pounds also depending upon the season.
Black bears are omnivorous (eat both meat and plants), although vegetation makes up a substantial portion of their diet. Their diet varies from vegetation in the spring to fish in some areas during the summer. Otherwise, their diet consists mostly of berries and insects.
Breeding occurs June through July and the cubs are born in January or February, weighing only 8 to 10 ounces. Litter size varies from one to four, with twins being the most common. The cubs are weaned by September but will den with their mothers their second winter, after which they will be on their own. Females typically breed every year in good habitat.
Black bears are typically dormant during the winter months. Denning times can vary depending on location, snow levels, and temperature. Like brown bears, their metabolism and temperature are lowered and their need for food and water are eliminated. Bears in colder climates will remain in their dens longer and males typically emerge before females.
Last updated: July 23, 2008
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