American Black Bear

More Information

American black bears are the smallest bear species in North America, averaging 5–6 feet long, 3 feet tall at the shoulder, and up to 600 pounds in weight. Despite their name, they come in many colors, including shades of brown and even grayish-blue and white. They are good swimmers and can climb trees thanks to their powerful limbs and strong claws.

In the northern part of their range, they may hibernate for up to seven months while living off stored fat. In the southern part, they may hibernate for shorter periods or remain active year-round, if food is plentiful. During hibernation, they can wake up easily. Breeding takes place between May and July, but delayed implantation means that pregnancy usually does not begin until November. Females generally have two cubs in January. Those cubs remain with their mother for two winters, then separate.

Did You Know?

• There are twice as many American black bears than all other bear species combined.
• Black bears experience delayed implantation of fertilized eggs. Those eggs are only implanted when the mother’s body is ready, so energy isn’t wasted sustaining a pregnancy that may not succeed.
• Black bear populations experienced a decline after Europeans settled in North America due to habitat loss and hunting. Today, they are known for feeding on human food, and this continues to lead to conflict with people. However, protections have helped this species rebound in the last few decades.