Black bears are 5 to 6 feet in length, weigh 200 to 600 pounds, and have an average lifespan of 20 years in the wild. The black bear is an omnivore, meaning it eats roots, berries, plants, insects, fish, and meat.
Did you know? Despite their name, black bears aren’t always black in color. They can be grey, blue-black, brown, reddish, or, in rare cases, white.
The black bear population is expanding in New England as the animal reclaims its historic range. It is abundant in New Hampshire, Vermont, Most of Maine, and western Massachusetts. Sightings have also occurred in Rhode Island and Connecticut. The home range of a single bear might span up to 80 square miles.
Never feed black bears and secure all food and garbage in bear-proof containers. Not only can feeding a bear endanger you and your family, but it also endangers the bear as well. Bears that make a habit of seeking food near human habitations are often euthanized.
Learn more about spring wildlife viewing in New England.
This article was originally prepared for New England Hospitality.
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Cara Siera is a freelance writer and photographer with a passion for travel and exotic cuisine. Join Cara, her husband Marc, and one very spoiled German Shepherd on their next great adventure.