Black Bears

Black bears are the most common bears in North America. They have thick fur that is usually black, but can also be brown or even white. Black bears are smaller than grizzly bears, but they are still strong. They live in forests and love to climb trees.

Climbing Champs

Black bears are great climbers. They use their sharp claws to grip tree bark. Baby bears, called cubs, often climb trees to stay safe from danger. Black bears can climb up a tree very quickly. They sometimes even sleep in trees.

A mother black bear near a lake in the woods.
A mother black bear near a lake in the woods. (Alan D. Wilson / Wikimedia Commons)

Food and Hibernation

Black bears eat plants, berries, nuts, and insects. They also enjoy honey and fish. In the fall, they eat as much as they can to store fat. Then they sleep in dens all winter long. Their heart beats slowly while they rest.

Fun Facts

  • Black bear cubs are born tiny, about the size of a squirrel.
  • Black bears can live more than 20 years in the wild.
  • Not all black bears are black. Some are brown, blond, or even bluish gray.

Did You Know?

Black bears have a great sense of smell, even better than a dog's.