Mammal · GBIF taxon 2433407
American Black Bear
Ursus americanusAlso known as Black Bear, Baribal
American black bears are highly adaptable omnivores that spend much of their day foraging through woodlands, using exceptionally keen senses of smell to pinpoint food miles away. During late summer and autumn, they enter hyperphagia, feeding constantly to store fat reserves necessary for surviving months of winter dormancy inside hollow trees or dens. Sows give birth during winter hibernation and display devoted maternal care, keeping cubs close for nearly two years.
MammalOmnivoreForest Dweller
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Berries
- Insects
- Fish
Predators
- Grizzly Bear
- Cougar
- Gray Wolf
ThreatsHabitat fragmentation, vehicle collisions, human-wildlife conflict
HabitatsConiferous and hardwood forests, wooded mountains, swamps
Life span20 to 30 years
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- OrderCarnivora
- FamilyUrsidae
- GenusUrsus
- SpeciesUrsus americanus
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskHigh
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is high
- Large animal capable of defensive attacks when cornered or protecting cubs; maintain a safe distance.
- Why it is dangerous
- Equipped with powerful jaws, strong limbs, and short curved claws capable of causing severe or fatal injuries.
- How to recognize a risky encounter
- Identified by a straight facial profile, short curved claws, and the absence of a distinct shoulder hump.
- What to do
- Maintain a distance of at least 100 meters, carry bear spray, and never approach females with cubs.
Responsible observation
- Food Storage: Secure trash in bear-resistant containers and hang food bags while camping in bear country.
- Encounters: Stand tall, speak in a low calm voice, and slowly back away without turning your back or running.
- Leash Pets: Keep dogs on a leash during outdoor hikes to avoid triggering defensive bear reactions.
Competitor (c) Nathan Ruser, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Nathan Ruser · cc-by
Food Source (c) Douglas Goldman, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA), uploaded by Douglas Goldman · cc-by-sa
Prey (c) Cole Wolf, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Cole Wolf · cc-by
Close Relative Alan Wilson / CC BY-SA 3.0 · cc-by-sa
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Found in Collections
Ecosystem chain
The Forest Floor
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