Black Bear

About

How black bear lives

Black bears are adaptable forest omnivores that feed on berries, nuts, insects, fish, carrion, and young plants. Black bears often enter winter dens in a lighter torpor rather than the deepest form of hibernation. Forest habitats reward animals that can climb, hide, or move quietly through layered vegetation.

Conservation

Status and habitat pressure

Stable populations still depend on habitat quality, food availability, and low human pressure. Protecting black bear also depends on keeping forest, mountains habitats healthy and connected.

Common species still depend on habitat quality, clean water, food webs, and low disturbance.

Quick Facts

Things to notice

• Black bears often enter winter dens in a lighter torpor rather than the deepest form of hibernation.
• Hair, fur, and milk production are hallmark mammal traits that separate them from other vertebrates.
• Forest habitats reward animals that can climb, hide, or move quietly through layered vegetation.
• Stable populations still depend on habitat quality, food availability, and low human pressure.