Yes, black bears, scientifically known as Ursus americanus, are native residents of Yellowstone National Park and maintain a healthy population there. Visitors often overlook the presence of the black bear because the park’s grizzly bear population, a symbol of the American West, frequently captures the public’s attention. Despite the grizzly bear’s prominence, black bears are considered common throughout the park and are more widely distributed across North America than their grizzly counterparts. The two bear species coexist in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, making the park a unique location where both can be observed in their natural habitat.
Yes, They Are Present
Black bears have a long history of residency in Yellowstone, contributing to the park’s rich biodiversity. While an exact population count is not meticulously tracked, black bears are estimated to be more numerous than the approximately 700 to 750 grizzly bears in the greater ecosystem. Studies indicate that black bears can occur at some of the highest densities found in the northern Rocky Mountains, particularly in the northern portion of the park. Their status as native residents is secure, and they thrive in the park’s varied terrain.
The perception that black bears are rare is largely due to their preference for different habitats and behavioral patterns compared to grizzlies. Black bears tend to be more elusive, relying on dense forest cover for security and foraging, which makes them less visible to visitors. This contrasts with the grizzly bear, which often utilizes open meadows and valleys, leading to more frequent sightings.
How to Identify the Two Species
Distinguishing between the two bear species requires focusing on reliable physical characteristics rather than misleading indicators like fur color or size. Both black bears and grizzly bears can appear brown, cinnamon, or blonde, and a large black bear can sometimes outweigh a smaller female grizzly.
One telling feature is the shoulder profile. The grizzly bear possesses a pronounced, muscular shoulder hump, which is absent or only slightly noticeable on the black bear. This hump is a mass of muscle used to power their forelimbs for digging. The black bear lacks this distinctive hump, and its rump is typically higher than its shoulders, creating a more straight-backed appearance.
Identification also relies on the facial profile and ear shape. A grizzly bear has a concave or “dished” profile, with a noticeable dip between its eyes and nose, and its ears are relatively smaller and more rounded. In contrast, the black bear has a straighter facial profile from the forehead to the nose tip, with larger, more pointed ears. Observing these three features—shoulder hump, facial shape, and ear size—provides the most accurate way to differentiate the species.
Preferred Range and Diet in Yellowstone
The two bear species generally separate themselves ecologically within the park. Black bears typically occupy lower elevations and areas with denser forest cover. Research indicates the highest densities are found in forested communities, such as the northern range, which provides ample food resources and thermal cover. This preference contrasts with the grizzly bear, which is more commonly found in high-elevation, open country like the Hayden and Lamar Valleys.
The black bear’s diet is heavily influenced by its environment and climbing ability. Its short, curved claws are better suited for scaling trees than for digging. Black bears are opportunistic omnivores whose diet consists of over 80% vegetation, including grasses, berries, and nuts. While they consume meat, their diet features less meat and fewer roots compared to the grizzly, which uses its longer claws and shoulder strength to dig extensively for roots, bulbs, and subterranean rodents.
Visitor Safety and Viewing Guidelines
Visitor safety in Yellowstone hinges on maintaining appropriate distances and being prepared for a potential encounter with either species. The National Park Service mandates that all visitors must remain at least 100 yards away from grizzly bears and wolves, and a minimum distance of 25 yards from black bears. Carrying EPA-approved bear spray and knowing how to use it is strongly recommended for anyone hiking outside of developed areas, as it is a highly effective, non-lethal deterrent.
If a bear encounter occurs, visitor response should differ based on the species, which underscores the importance of correct identification. Black bears are generally less aggressive than grizzlies and will often retreat by climbing a tree. If a black bear attacks, the recommended response is to fight back aggressively. However, if a grizzly bear attacks, the protocol is to play dead by lying flat on the stomach and protecting the neck, as these attacks are usually defensive, triggered by a perceived threat.