The American Black Bear, Ursus americanus, is an intelligent and adaptable mammal found throughout North America, including an isolated subspecies, the Florida Black Bear found in Florida. These shy, solitary creatures inhabit forests and urban areas in search of food. As omnivores, they aren't picky. Their acute sense of smell allows them to locate food from up to 2 miles away. Black bears are also great climbers and swimmers. Though they are considered North America's smallest bear species, black bears can weigh as much as 500 pounds or more, especially as they pack on the weight to prepare for winter, though they don't truly hibernate. Black bears typically live 20 to 30 years. Despite their name, the most common color for black bears is actually brown. They also can be found with cinnamon, blonde, blue-gray, or white fur. The bear featured here was spotted during a visit to Cataract Falls in Tennessee.
