There are several species of bears native to North America. These include ursus arctos (brown bear), ursus americanus (black bear), and ursus maritimus (polar bear). These three species belong to the genus known as ursus. There are many subspecies within these three species. For example, the species ursus arctos contains the subspecies ursus horribilis, commonly known as the grizzly bear. Another subspecies of ursus arctos is the subspecies Ursus arctos middendorffi, commonly known as the kodiak bear. The species ursus americanus and ursus maritimus have far fewer subspecies than ursus arctos.
Ursus Arctos
The brown bear is found throughout the Northern Hemisphere. They are mainly found in mountainous areas, where human contact is limited. They need large territories in which to feed before seeking a den for the winter months. It should be noted that grizzly bears do not actually hibernate during this period, but instead enter a state of semi-hibernation. Some grizzly bears are known to be fully active during the winter months. Ursus Arctos is an omnivore as its diet consists mainly of plant matter. A small part of their diet is made up of animal matter such as fish. Sometimes they feed on deer, elk, or other large mammals.
Ursus Americanus
The black bear is the smallest of the various species of bears found in North America. Its range is much more extensive than that of the polar or brown bear. These bears have been sighted very close to large metropolitan areas such as Toronto. In fact, a few years ago, one was spotted in the town of Barrie, which is located about 100 kilometers north of Toronto. Like the brown bear, they are omnivores.
Ursus Maritimus
The polar bear is primarily found within the Arctic Circle, along the Arctic Ocean. Of all the bears native to North America, it is the closest to being a true carnivore, as its diet consists primarily of seals. They spend most of their time on sea ice, as this gives them the best opportunity to hunt their main food source.
Bears like these rarely attack humans. They would rather have nothing to do with us. However, certain situations can greatly increase aggressive behavior on your part, such as surprise encounters or if they feel like they are being provoked. When traveling in active bear territory, make noise, travel in groups, be aware of your surroundings, and bring bear spray.
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