American Black Bear

Ursus americanus

Classification

Conservation Status

  • American Black Bears are the smallest and most common bear on the continent. They are found in densely forested areas of the upper Cumberland River Basin – primarily in the mountains of Kentucky. 
  • They have an exceptional sense of smell and have been documented making an 18 mile bee-line for food. Their sense of smell is many times better than dogs, including bloodhounds. 
  • The species is highly intelligent and adept with its front paws. It’s capable of unscrewing jars and opening door handles. 
  • American black bear dens can be in caves, dens, or even well above the ground in hollow trees.

More wildlife