Common name: Grizzly Bear
Scientific name: Ursus arctos horribilis
Conservation Status: Least Concern
At the zoo: Shadow (female, 26y), and three siblings Huggy Bear (female, 5y), Henry (male, 5y), and Scout (female, 5y) - all of our Grizzly Bears are orphaned rescues; you can find them all in the SE corner of the zoo.
Habitat:
Grizzly Bear populations cover much of the northern region of North America, Europe, and Asia.
Diet:
A Grizzly Bear's diet is varied from large mammals such as moose, elk, caribou, deer, sheep and bison; to salmon, wild berries, nuts, grasses and other plants.
Median Life Expectancy:
22 - 27 years
Biology:
Grizzly Bears are the second largest land carnivores after polar bears. Their fur colour varies from blond to nearly black, although typically brown with white tips. They have a noticeable hump on their shoulders, which is an excellent way to differentiate them from Black Bears.
Although as a whole this species is secure, many small, isolated populations like those in Europe and the southerly portions of Asia and North America are threatened due to their low numbers and frequent contact with humans.
Fun Fact:
Did you know that Grizzly Bears can gain up to 400 pounds in preparation for hibernation!?
