Bear Biology

Bears are large mammals belonging to the family Ursidae. There are eight species, including the American black bear and the polar bear. They are omnivorous, meaning they eat both plants and animals. Bears have strong bodies and are adapted for varied habitats—forests, mountains, and tundras. They have sharp senses, particularly smell, which they use to find food. Bears undergo a period of hibernation during winter, slowing their metabolism to conserve energy. They typically give birth to cubs in dens during this time. Conservation efforts are crucial as habitat loss and climate change threaten their populations.