An estimated 100,000 black bears (Ursus americanus) inhabit Alaska. Adult black bears stand about 29 inches at the shoulders and measure about 60 inches from nose to tail. Males are larger than females. An average adult male in spring weighs about 180 – 200 lbs . Bears weigh considerably less when they emerge from winter dormancy.

Black bears can vary in color from jet black to white. Black is the color encountered most frequently across the state, but brown or cinnamon-colored black bears are sometimes seen in Southcentral Alaska and on the southeastern mainland. Cinnamon-colored black bears are also common in Alaska’s Interior.

Black bears often have brown muzzles and some also have a patch of white hair on their chest. Black bears are opportunistic when it comes to food. However, they do follow certain predictable patterns. In the spring, freshly sprouted vegetation, including grass, horsetails, and poplar buds are an important food source for bears. Bears readily scavenge winter-killed animals, and in some areas black bears are effective predators on newborn moose calves. As summer progresses, feeding shifts to salmon if that resource is available.

In Alaska, black bears occur over most of the forested areas of the state; depending on the season of the year, they may be found from sea level to alpine areas.