The Ursidae contains five contemporary genera with 8 species, found in Eurasia, North America, and the Northern Andes of South America. Bears have large bodies with stocky legs, long snouts, shaggy hair, nonretractile claws, and short tails. Most species inhabit forests, but also occur in montane grasslands, tundra, and ice floes (Polar Bear). Bears may dig dens in hillsides or use caves and hollow logs for shelter. Northern species hibernate, up to 3-7 months a year. Six species are omnivorous, Polar Bear is carnivorous, and Giant Panda (which was formerly included in Procyonidae) is mostly herbivorous. Bears have been hunted for centuries, and have disappeared from many parts of their former range. Six species as listed as vulnerable or endangered.

		American Black Bear (Ursus americanus)
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