The bear is a mammal in the order Carnivora. Bears are widespread all around the world. The live in a variety of habitats and are found in North America, South America, Europe, and Asia.
There are eight bear species in the world: Andean bear, American black bear, Asiatic black bear, Brown bear, Giant Panda, Polar bear, Sloth bear and Sun bear. Bears have large bodies, strong legs, a long snout, strong claws, thick fur and short tail.
The largest bear is the polar bear. Adult polar bears can weigh up to 1,500 pounds. The sun bear is the smallest member of the bear family, weighing up to 100 pounds.
About Black Bears
The American black bear (Ursus americanus) is the most common bear species native to North America. It inhabits heavily forested areas and wooded mountains. An adult black bear has small eyes, rounded ears, long snout, large body, and short tail. Males weigh an average of 150-300 lbs., and females are smaller.
The Asiatic black bear (Ursus thibetanus), also called the moon bear, is a close relative of the American black bear. It has a large, white crescent-shaped mark appearing on its chest. Asiatic black bears live in mountain forests at altitudes of 1,000 to over 3,000 meters. The Asiatic black bear is listed as vulnerable species.
About Grizzly Bears
The grizzly bear (Ursus arctos horribilis) is a subspecies of the brown bear. It can be found in Canada, Alaska, and in reserves in Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, Washington, USA. Grizzlies are highly adaptable to various habitats, from dense forests to arctic tundra. The grizzly bear can weigh up to 1,500 pounds. Males are larger than females. The grizzly is an amazing animal, but unfortunately is listed as threatened species in the USA and as endangered species in parts of Canada.
Behavior
Bears are intelligent and curious creatures. They are solitary animals. Only the mother and her cubs live together for an extended time. These animals have a keen sense of smell but poor hearing and eyesight. Bears are most often nocturnal or crepuscular animals. They can be also active during the day. Bears are omnivorous and opportunistic feeders. They eat plants, leaves, fruit, nuts, berries, honey, insects, and mammals. Bears have few predators.
Reproduction
Sexual maturity usually occurs when bears are 3 to 6.5 years old. The gestation period is between 95 and 266 days, depending on the species. Baby bears are called cubs. Cubs are born toothless, blind, and bald.
Bear Facts
- Bears have color vision.
- Bears are great climbers and excellent swimmers.
- Polar bears can run at speeds of up to 25 miles per hour.
- The polar bear’s skin is actually black.
- At birth, a panda bear is smaller than a mouse.
- Panda bears can spend up to 16 hours a day eating.