Habitat: Where bears thrive

Bears inhabit a remarkable range of environments, from temperate forests to Arctic tundra and tropical forests. The choice of habitat is driven by food availability, climate, denning sites, and seasonal cycles. Different species specialize in distinct landscapes, yet all bears share an ability to exploit a wide menu and adapt their movements to the weather and resources around them.

• Forests and woodlands: Most species rely on cover for foraging and safety, using berry patches, nuts, and insects as seasonal staples.
• Coastal and river systems: Brown bears along coastlines and salmon rivers capitalize on high-protein fish runs, often traveling large distances to feed.
• Arctic and alpine zones: Polar bears depend on sea ice to hunt seals, while some brown and black bears use alpine meadows in the summer for forage.
• Tropical forests: Sun bears and sloth bears live in dense canopies where fruit, honey, and insects are abundant.

Diet: What bears eat

Bears are opportunistic omnivores. Their diets vary by species, season, and local abundance, but most blend of plants and animal matter keep energy intake steady through the year. In coastal and riverine areas, fish can be a major protein source; in forests, berries, nuts, and roots may dominate when salmon are scarce.

• Plant foods: berries, fruits, nuts, tubers, and honey when available
• Insects: a reliable protein source found in logs, underground nests, and compost
• Animal prey and carrion: small mammals, ungulates, and scavenged remains
• Species notes: polar bears rely heavily on seals; pandas focus on bamboo; sun bears forage fruit and insects; sloth bears eat termites and fruit

Behavior: How bears act in the wild

Bears are largely solitary outside of cubs and breeding periods. They roam wide areas in search of food, use scent marking and vocalizations to communicate, and display a range of postures to signal hunger, fear, or aggression. Mothers are the central social unit, guiding cubs for one to two years as they learn to find food and stay safe. In harsher climates, many bears den to conserve energy during winter, while polar bears may den for months when pregnant. Close encounters with humans are best avoided; knowledge of bear behavior and safe practices reduces risk for both people and bears.

Adaptations: Senses, physiology, and movement

Bear bodies balance strength and resilience. Large forelimbs, powerful claws, and strong teeth support digging, climbing, and catching prey. A thick fur coat and a substantial fat layer provide insulation in cold environments. A highly developed sense of smell helps identify food sources and potential mates from long distances. Bears are versatile athletes—excellent climbers, swimmers, and steady runners, using body language to communicate intent to other bears or to deter threats.

Conservation and coexistence

Many bear populations face habitat loss, climate change, and conflicts with people. Protecting critical habitats, creating wildlife corridors, and adopting bear-aware practices in communities reduce risks for both bears and humans. While some species remain widespread, others are vulnerable in parts of their range, underscoring the need for ongoing monitoring, research, and habitat protection to support healthy bear populations for the future.