American Black Bear

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American Black Bear
American Black Bear

(Ursus americanus). Patient Number 25-474 .

Date of admission: June 3, 2025.
Reason for admission: Orphaned.

Patient History:

The American black bear is the most widely distributed bear species in North America and is the world’s most common bear species. American black bears continue to inhabit much of their historical Canadian range. The preferred habitat consists of sparsely settled hardwood forested areas. American black bears are omnivores, but up to 85% of their diet consists of vegetation. When emerging from hibernation in the spring, black bears will feed on carrion and newborn ungulates. During the summer, they will feed on honey and a variety of plant species, with their diet consisting primarily of fruits and berries. During the autumn months, black bears actively search out nuts, particularly hazelnuts, acorns, and pine nuts. If food is abundant, bears can be known to feed in groups

Black bear mating takes place in June, July, and August, and pairs will likely remain together for only a few hours or days; the remainder of the time, they are typically solitary. Average home ranges are 3 to 40 square kilometers, and are typically exclusive, except a male range may be larger and overlap with females during mating seasons. The female has a gestational period of approximately 220 days, with cubs being born in the den between January and February. The average litter size is two, though it can be upwards of five in some cases. Cubs are fully weaned by 6-8 months but will remain with their mothers for the first year. Additionally, most female black bears only mate every two years. The average lifespan of a black bear is 20 to 25 years.

This black bear cub was brought to AIWC after being found alone, with no mother around, for an extended period of time. They are estimated to be about 4 months of age and weighed in at 2.7 kg upon arrival. They are quite fearful of us and have a thin body condition, but otherwise, no significant injuries or illnesses.

They have since been introduced to two other orphaned cubs in our care, which will be an incredible benefit for their overall growth and enrichment. 

Since we began caring for black bear cubs in 2019, we’ve admitted 21 cubs, with a 100% success rate.

It’s thanks to your support that we can continue to provide such high-quality care to Alberta’s wildlife in need.

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