Brown Bear
Scientific Name: Ursus arctos
Category: mammal
Brief Description
A large, powerful carnivoran mammal with thick fur, a muscular build, and a distinctive shoulder hump.
Characteristics
Thick brown fur, a prominent shoulder hump (a mass of muscle for digging), short rounded ears, a concave facial profile, and long, heavy claws.
Habitat
Found in a variety of habitats including forests, alpine meadows, and coastal regions across North America, Europe, and Asia.
When to Find It
Active during the day and twilight; enters a state of torpor (hibernation) in dens during the winter months.
Conservation Status
Least Concern (globally), though specific subpopulations are threatened or endangered.
Ecological Role
As apex predators and scavengers, they regulate prey populations and disperse seeds through their diet. They also move nutrients from marine to terrestrial ecosystems during salmon runs.
Easily Confused With
Black Bear (Ursus americanus) - Black bears lack the shoulder hump, have a straighter facial profile, and larger, more pointed ears.
Observation Tips
Always maintain a safe distance (at least 100 yards), use binoculars or telephoto lenses, and never provide food which can habituate them to humans.
Interesting Facts
Brown bears are incredibly fast and can reach speeds of up to 35 mph (56 km/h) despite their bulky appearance.