Bear Hunting

Bear hunting can involve many species of bear. In North America the black bear remains the most plentiful, thus the most successful hunting will take place in one of the 32 states where these creatures find a dense forest habitat. Bear hunting requires special skills and precautions due to the predatory nature of these large animals.

The white polar bear population remains in the artic regions of Alaska and Canada. Bear hunting for these white bears in Alaska is strictly limited to natives living in the state since polar bear meat provides the mainstay of their diet. The natives cure the white skins, then fashion them into warm clothing. Without the polar bear these people would be forced to migrate elsewhere for a living. That is why non-residents are not permitted to hunt polar bear in Alaska. Non-residents can hunt polar bear in Canada, but at this time are unable to take the hides out of the country.

The brown bear and grizzly are also found in Alaska and Canada and are pursued by many hunters in those regions. Black bear are found in most of Alaska, Canada and many states in the lower forty-eight.

Most bears hibernate during the winter months. When food becomes scarce they find a den to hide in. This is where the female gives birth to her cubs and nurtures them over several months as they suckle milk, staying tucked in next to their mother’s furry belly. Hibernation can last up to 6 months. Some bears leave the den during hibernation, making short excursions to gather food when the weather permits.

The black bear can be found in many colors from several shades of black to chocolate brown, cinnamon brown, pale blue (known as glacier bears) to white (known as Kermode bears). A black bear will often have a brown muzzle and may have a lighter color patch on its chest. Its feet are equipped with strong, highly curved claws for digging and tearing of food and any prey foolish enough to mess around with them.

In North America the black bear remains plentiful, thus bear hunting trips will be productive and enjoyable. They prefer fruits, nuts, acorns, roots and grasses and other plant matter to eat. They also eat prey they kill such as small deer, moose fawns and in coastal areas they stand knee deep in rapid running streams, feeding on spawning salmon. As the salmon struggles to swim up stream, it is easy prey for these fast critters.

Bears are usually solitary animals except females who travel along with one to three cubs. A male and female may travel together for a few days during mating season. The females reach sexual maturity by the time they are 3 or 4 years old. Mating takes place in June, July and August. Gestation takes about 220 days. The cubs are weaned at about 8 months of age.

Black bears prefer to stay away from the grizzly and brown bear, which are much larger species.

Grizzly bears prefer cool mountain forests with plenty of vegetation and they love river valleys. These bears are the most feared by man due to their size and speed. They can run up to 35 mph for short distances. They can weigh up to 1500 pounds. Newborns weigh about one pound and are about the size of a large rat. The grizzly gets its name from the dense fur that becomes silver tipped as they age. Their colors run from black, brown, reddish brown to blond.

Grizzly bears are fierce predators and can be easily awakened when they are supposed to be hibernating.

Make certain you understand all the Wildlife Rules and Regulations before setting out on a bear hunt. Have a safe and memorable hunting trip!