Habitat
ForestsSwampsMountainsMixed woodland edges
Diet
- Omnivore: plants + animals
- Berries, fruit, sedges, insects
- Occasional fish/honeycomb
- Can be attracted to unsecured human food/garbage
Bear Species
American Black Bear
Ursus americanus — The most widespread bear in North America.
Highly adaptable omnivore found in forests and wild edges across much of the U.S. and Canada.
Widely distributed across North America; commonly associated with forested habitats but often uses mixed landscapes near human communities.
Where:
AlaskaPacific NorthwestRockiesUpper MidwestAppalachiansSoutheast (including Florida)Northeast
Zoom to: Upper Midwest • Appalachians • Pacific NW
Size & life history
Lifespan (wild): Can live into the 20s; NPS notes broad omnivory and adaptability (varies by region).
Conservation
Status: Least Concern (IUCN); managed by states/provinces
- Human–bear conflict is often driven by food attractants—secure trash is a major prevention step.
- Diet is extremely flexible; they will eat “almost anything.”
Fun facts
- Curved claws help with tree climbing (better climbers than brown bears).
- Excellent sense of smell; very food-motivated and smart around attractants.
Map
MAP
American Black Bear — hotspots & sightings
Starts centered on this bear’s primary region. Use chips to jump around.