No wild bears live in Africa, Antarctica, or Australia. The body of a bear Most bears have heavy bodies with long, thick fur, loose skin, and large, hairy heads. Bears have small eyes and cannot see well. Their small, rounded ears stand straight up, but they hear only fairly well. They have an excellent sense of smell.
Bears have short, strong legs and large feet.
Each foot has five toes, and each toe ends in a long, heavy claw. The claws can always be seen because, unlike those of a cat, they have no covering. A bear uses its claws to dig up roots, ants, termites, and other food, or to tear its prey. A bear's walk differs from that of most other animals. Most animals walk and run on their toes.