The American black bear is the most common bear species in North America—and while it’s called a “black” bear, it actually comes in a range of colors! From black and brown to cinnamon and even blonde, this adaptable animal is found in forests, swamps, and mountains across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
Black bears are omnivores, which means they eat both plants and animals—but most of their diet comes from berries, nuts, grasses, roots, and insects. They’ll also eat fish, small mammals, and sometimes raid bird feeders or campsites when food is easy to find. Their strong sense of smell helps them locate food from miles away!
These bears are great climbers and swimmers, and they’re surprisingly fast—able to run up to 30 mph! But most of the time, they move slowly and spend their days exploring, foraging, and getting ready for winter.
In colder regions, black bears go into hibernation during the winter months. They spend this time sleeping in dens made in hollow trees, caves, or dug-out hillsides. Before they hibernate, they eat a lot—gaining up to 30 pounds of fat to keep them cozy through the cold.
In zoos, black bears are often featured in North American wildlife exhibits, where guests can watch them climb logs, splash in pools, or interact with enrichment toys that keep their brains and bodies active.
