Black Bears (Ursus americanus) are medium-sized bears native to North America and are the most commonly sighted bear species across the continent. Contrary to their name, black bears can display a variety of fur colors—ranging from black to brown and even blonde—though in the Northeast, they are exclusively black.
Physical Characteristics
Size: Males are significantly larger than females, weighing up to 70% more.
Speed/Agility: Despite their size, black bears can run at speeds of 25 to 30 miles per hour and are skilled climbers.
Life History
Habitat: Black bears prefer wooded areas with dense vegetation to avoid detection but can adapt to urban settings by altering their activity patterns and food sources.
Senses: They possess eyesight and hearing comparable to humans but have a sense of smell seven times more sensitive than that of dogs.
Activity Patterns: Black bears can be either nocturnal or diurnal, depending on their needs and environmental conditions. They frequently appear in indigenous stories, often depicted as respected figures.
Diet
Black bears are omnivorous and have a varied diet throughout the year:
Summer/Fall: Primarily consume fruits and nuts.
Spring: Eat emerging plants and the carcasses of animals that died over the winter.
Hibernation: They spend much of winter hibernating, which reduces their need to eat frequently. Although they primarily forage, they are strong predators capable of hunting moose calves and deer fawns. Bears living near humans may forage for food in garbage dumps and campsites, so it’s crucial to bear-proof food and waste in their vicinity.
At Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller
Black bears are frequently observed in the park during the early summer months as they emerge from their winter dens. To avoid unexpected encounters, it’s advisable to make some noise while hiking—saying phrases like “Hey Bear” can alert potential bears to your presence and help prevent surprises.
