Wade Karman Black Bear Ursus americanus Behavioral Adaptations: Communication occurs with cubs by using low grunts and huffs. The bear will sob or growl if injured or threatened. Hibernation occurs during the winter months to conserve energy. Bears will drop their heart rates and not eliminate waste during this time. Bears will mark trees with urine or claw the tree as a sign of territory. Tree marks also are used to attract mates. Structural Adaptations: Black bears have thick, long, black hair to insulate the body and protect against temperature extremes. Bears have five toes on each foot with long claws to dig, mark trees, and climb trees. Strong limbs allow the bear to run up to 30 mph, stand upright, climb, and swim. The black bear has a long nose to assist with scent. This helps to find food, find mates, and check territory. Strong canine teeth help with their omnivorous diet of fruit, nuts, meat, fish, insects, and carrion. Animal Facts: Males are larger than females and can weigh as much as 400kg or 880lbs Nocturnal, solitary animals that use scent to find food Drink water frequently and will lay in water during high temperatures Habitat is hardwood deciduous forests such as maple, birch, and oak trees Nest sites or den sites include ditches, caves, rock ledges, tree roots Mating occurs from early June to mid July; will mate will several males Females will hibernate alone and give birth in January while in the den Average litter size is three cubs with five being a high offspring number Cubs leave the den at three months and are weaned at seven months Cubs will remain with the mother for 17 months to learn behaviors