Two lineages evolved from U. minimus: the black bears (including the sun bear, the Asian black bear, and the American black bear); and the brown bears (which includes the polar bear). Bear, any of eight species of large short-tailed carnivores found in the Americas, Europe, and Asia.

Understanding the Context

The sun bear is the smallest, often weighing less than 50 kg (110 pounds). The American black bear is the most common bear species in North America, ranging from Alaska down to Mexico. They are usually black or dark brown in color, with a light-colored muzzle and some white or blond fur around their chest and neck. The American black bear (Ursus americanus), or simply black bear, is a species of medium-sized bear which is endemic to North America.

Key Insights

It is the continent's smallest and most widely distributed bear species. As of 2013, the oldest bear in the wild is No. 56, a female American black bear that lived in the woods of northern Minnesota. It was 39.5 years old at the time of its death. 12 The bear’s habitat is diverse, as they inhabit the steppes, prairies, montane grasslands, and tropical low land forests.

Final Thoughts

Polar bears are often seen spending a significant part of their time living on sea ice. Brown Bear – The brown bear, also referred to as the grizzly bear, is found in North America, Asia and Europe. It is distinguished by the humps that rest over its shoulders and massive brown physique. This guide introduces the bear family and shares tips on where to see different types of bears in the wild. From the enormous Kodiak bear of the Alaskan tundra to the demure tongue-lolling Sun bear of the Malaysian rainforest, bears are as diverse as they are charismatic. Bears belong to the family Ursidae.