Ecology of Bears

The ecology of bears involves their interactions within ecosystems, where they serve as both predators and scavengers. Bears influence populations of prey like fish, small mammals, and vegetation, helping maintain balanced ecosystems. They adapt to various habitats, from forests to tundras, and have seasonal behaviors such as hibernation to survive harsh conditions. Bears also contribute to nutrient cycling; for example, by fishing and leaving carcasses, they help distribute nutrients across different parts of their environment. Understanding bear ecology is essential for conservation efforts, ensuring these species thrive while maintaining healthy and functioning ecosystems.