Black Bear

Ursus americanus

ORDER: Carnivora

FAMILY: Ursidae

Description

Once gone from the state, the black bear has quietly returned to the rugged canyons of Big Bend, wandering north from Mexico. Shy and mostly solitary, it forages for berries, acorns, and insects through the Chisos highlands - a genuine thrill to find and photograph in the Texas wild.

Location

Texas

Habitat

wooded mountains and canyons of West Texas

Season

year-round resident, most active spring through fall

Size

~5-6 ft long, 200-300 lb

Diet

omnivore - berries, nuts, insects, carrion

Conservation Status

Least Concern