Apart from that time, black bears are usually solitary, except for sows with cubs. Cubs are usually born in dens following a gestation period of about seven months. They are born blind, nearly hairless and weigh under a pound. Upon emerging from the den in May, they may weigh about five pounds. Two cubs per litter are most common.
Cubs remain with their mothers through the first and sometimes second winter.
Black bears are creatures of opportunity when it comes to food. As summer progresses, feeding shifts to salmon, if available. In areas where salmon are not present, bears rely primarily on vegetation, including berries. Ants, grubs and other insects round out their diets. Male bears occasionally prey on their own young.