Avoidance ║  Encounters ║  Deterrents ║  Camping ║  Identification ║  Reporting 

Individuals of both species can range in size and colour. The most reliable way to identify bear species is to look for the following distinguishing features:

GRIZZLY BEAR

• Fur can be blonde, red, dark brown or black
• Adult males weigh between 180-360 kg (400-790 lb), while females weigh between 130-180 kg (290-400 lb).
• Evolved in more open habitats: today live in both open and forested habitats
• Front claws are long and specialized for digging

Notice:

• Large head
• Distinct shoulder hump
• Short, rounded ears
• Scooped snout profile
• Long claws

BLACK BEAR

• Fur can be blonde, red, brown, grey-blue or black
• Adult males weigh between 57-250 kg (126-551 lb), while females weigh between 41-170 kg (90-375 lb).
• Evolved in forested habitats: are agile climbers
• Diet is up to 90% vegetation, berry crops are a critical food source

Notice:

• Small head
• Rump is higher than shoulder
• Tall ears
• Flat snout profile
• Short claws