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Black bears are the most common and generally smallest of North American
bears. It is the only bear known to live in Colorado. Black bears are
very agile, can run in bursts up to 35 miles an hour, and can run up or
down hills quickly and easily. They also climb trees and are strong
swimmers. Most Colorado black bears are some shade of brown, and are sometimes cinnamon colored. They vary in size and weight. An adult male will average 275 pounds and the average female will be 175 pounds. Bears are intelligent and curious. They can see colors, form, and movement. They use their acute sense of smell and hearing to locate food and detect danger. Black bears may range from 10 to 250 square miles. Adult males occupy the largest areas, while females establish their home range closer to their mothers. Bears may be active anytime, day or night. They are omnivorous with about 90% of their diet made up of nutritious plants. Bears will eat broad leafed flowering plant, berries, nuts, insects, carrion, and grasses. And almost anything in your garden. A sow will bear usually 2 cubs, emerging from their den in mid-May. The cubs will remain with their mother for one year. We live in bear country and need to be aware of possible encounters. Most conflicts with bears are due to careless handling of food or garbage. Don't let your carelessness cause the unnecessary death of a bear or result in human injury or death. Bears will eat almost anything. They will eat human food, garbage, hummingbird food, and pet food. Once they find a convenient source of food in a human area, they will continue to visit regularly.
When provoked or threatened, bears will attack. Do not approach a wild black bear. If you encounter a bear, slowly and quietly back away. If you see a black bear in Hunters Point, notify a board member of the HOA. |
