The black bear is a big, furry mammal with a powerful nose and a serious appetite. Despite its name, it comes in black, brown, and even cinnamon colors.
It lives in forests, mountains, and sometimes near people’s homes when food is scarce. Black bears are found across North America, especially in wild parts of California.
It eats fruit, insects, nuts, meat, and whatever it can find. It roams forests, spreads seeds, and helps clean up carcasses, making it an all-around forest manager.
Female bears give birth during winter while hibernating in their den. Cubs are born tiny, blind, and helpless. They stay with mom for over a year, learning everything about bear life.
They can smell snacks from over a mile away. They’re excellent climbers and swimmers. And they sometimes stand on two legs just to get a better look (not to fight!).
Black bears help control nature’s balance. They’re part of forest health, cultural heritage, and even tourism. Protecting bears protects the wild places we all need.
