2. Black Bear Ursus americanus Morphology: 60-65” (4” tail) 200-400lbs (males ave. 500lb- larger than national ave.) Black (brown, cinnamon, blonde) Plantigrade Excellent smell, good vision and hearing Climb trees at all ages Male = Boar Females = Sow Young = Cub

3. Habitat Poconos & North Central PA Mixed forests, swamps and thickets(adaptable)

4. Feeding Behavior Omnivores (PA’s largest carnivore) Active in spring & fall Why? Spring - lose 30% of body weight during “hibernation” Fall - Build up 4” fat (blueberries, insect larvae juneberries, beechnuts, acorn, skunk cabbage)

5. Reproductive Strategies/Population Dynamics/Life History : Breed in June and July [female in heat for 2-3 weeks] Delayed implantation - 6-7 mo. gestation but young develop for ~ only 6 weeks Cubs - most born in January (in the den) - can’t see, hear, or smell: “heat seekers” - age determined by hair length Breed once every 2 years 1-3 cubs (k- selective)

6. Other Notes and Distinguishing Features: Regulated hunting season (3 days / extended in some areas) Check stations ( hunters harvest 3000-4500/year statewide) “Mark” trees, wallows Can run 30 mph Gary Alt – ex PGC biologist 8,500 +/- in Pa (~ 20,000 carrying capacity) Aged by “rings” in teeth. (1 st upper premolar)