The family Ursidae includes all bear species, which are large, powerful mammals known for their bulky bodies, thick fur, and versatile diets. Bears are found in diverse habitats across the world, from forests and mountains to arctic regions. They play important roles in their ecosystems as omnivores, seed dispersers, and apex predators.
- Family: Ursidae
- Common name: Bears
- Distinctive traits: Large body, strong limbs, plantigrade feet, long claws, excellent sense of smell
- Diet: Omnivorous (varies by species and season)
- Distribution: North and South America, Europe, Asia, and Arctic regions
- Habitat: Forests, mountains, tundra, and coastal areas
Bears belong to the family Ursidae.
Giant Panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca)
The giant panda's diet is over 99% bamboo.
The giant panda is a unique bear species native to central China. Although classified as a carnivore, its diet is overwhelmingly herbivorous, consisting mainly of bamboo. Pandas have distinctive black-and-white fur and are well adapted to a specialized low-energy lifestyle.
- Scientific name: Ailuropoda melanoleuca
- Range: Mountain forests of central China
- Diet: >99% bamboo; occasional small animals or carrion
- Conservation status: Vulnerable
American Black Bear (Ursus americanus)
The American black bear has an omnivorous diet.
The American black bear is the most widely distributed bear species in North America. It is highly adaptable and occupies a range of habitats from forests to swamps. Its omnivorous diet shifts with seasonal availability of food.
- Scientific name: Ursus americanus
- Range: North America, from Canada to northern Mexico
- Diet: Omnivorous—fruits, nuts, insects, small mammals, carrion
- Conservation status: Least Concern
Brown Bear (Ursus arctos)
Brown bears are found in North America, Europe, and Asia.
The brown bear has a broad geographic range and includes subspecies such as the grizzly bear. It is a versatile omnivore and can be a formidable predator. Brown bears are known for their impressive size and strength.
- Scientific name: Ursus arctos
- Range: North America, Europe, Asia
- Diet: Omnivorous—fish, mammals, berries, roots
- Conservation status: Least Concern (varies regionally)
Polar Bear (Ursus maritimus)
Polar bears primarily eat seals and other marine mammals.
Polar bears are specialized for life in the Arctic, with adaptations for swimming and insulating against cold. They are primarily carnivorous and depend on sea ice to hunt seals, making them vulnerable to climate change.
- Scientific name: Ursus maritimus
- Range: Arctic Circle regions
- Diet: Primarily carnivorous—seals and marine mammals
- Conservation status: Vulnerable
Spectacled Bear (Tremarctos ornatus)
Spectacled bears are native to the Andean region of South America.
The spectacled bear is the only bear species native to South America. It is named for the distinctive facial markings that resemble eyeglasses. Their diet is primarily herbivorous, supplemented with occasional animal matter.
- Scientific name: Tremarctos ornatus
- Range: Andes Mountains, South America
- Diet: Mostly herbivorous—fruits, bromeliads, palm; occasional insects/meat
- Conservation status: Vulnerable
The bear family Ursidae includes diverse species adapted to various environments and diets, ranging from the bamboo-eating giant panda to the carnivorous polar bear.
- Bears are found on multiple continents, including unique species in Asia, the Americas, and South America.
- Their ecological roles vary, with some acting primarily as herbivores and others as apex predators.
The giant panda is primarily herbivorous.
Bears are native to Asia, North America, South America, and Europe.
Polar bears have insulating fur and fat, and large paws for swimming.