The black bear is the most widely distributed bear species in North America. Following human-caused population declines, many black bear populations have increased during the last 75 years. Today, black bears inhabit much of their former range and most populations are sufficiently abundant to be managed as game species, with hunting regulations determined by state or provincial agencies.

Red River is black bear country. These incredible animals are our neighbors and it is not uncommon to see a bear in town, sometimes during daylight hours. If you see a bear, keep your distance and do not approach the animal. Always remember that they are wild creatures who are very strong and unpredictable.

Black bears like large forests with many different kinds of fruits and nuts. Small sunny openings within the forest provide many kinds of food for the bears. DO NOT feed the bears. DON’T leave garbage where they can find it. Human food is not healthy for them. When bears become attached to human chow they can pose a threat to humans, often resulting in their ultimate destruction by forest authorities. To feed a bear is to kill a bear.

Bear Facts

The black bear is approximately 4 to 7 feet from nose to tail, and two to three feet high at the withers. It has small eyes, rounded ears, a long snout, a large body, a short tail, and shaggy hair. It differs from grizzly bears in being smaller with a smaller shoulder hump, a furred rear instep, a less concave facial profile, smaller claws that are more tightly curved, and longer, smoother, and more tapered ears.

Wild male black bears of breeding age usually weigh between 125 and 500 pounds, depending upon age, season, and food. Very well fed bears can be heavier. The record is 880 pounds.

Black bears can live 21-33 years or more if they are not killed.