logo

Video encyclopedia

Ursus americanus

0:21

Ursus americanus

0:46

Black Bear (Ursus americanus)

1:46

Kermode bear (Ursus americanus kermodei)

0:39

American Black Bear (Ursus americanus)

1:27

Black bears (Ursus americanus) at Yosemite

The American black bear is a medium-sized bear native to North America. It is the continent's smallest and most widely distributed bear species. Black bears are omnivores, with their diets varying greatly depending on season and location. They typically live in largely forested areas, but do leave forests in search of food. Sometimes they become attracted to human communities because of the immediate availability of food. The American black bear is the world's most common bear species.
  • Taxonomy and evolution 

  • Distribution and population 

  • Habitat 

  • Description 

  • Behavior and life history 

  • Relationships with humans