Small breeding populations have now established in several areas of western Texas. To the south in the state of Coahuila, Mexico the bear population has recovered and is increasing. However, they will use other habitats where natural foods are abundant. In the Chihuahuan Desert of western Texas black bears are found in the lower desert elevations, as well as in the higher elevations of pine-oak woodland. Essential elements of bear habitat are food, shelter, and water.
Black bears are stocky, with powerful legs, and short tails.
They walk slightly pigeon-toed, and the rear track resembles a human footprint. Some bears have tan muzzles, and may or may not have a white blaze on the chest. Typically they measure about 36 inches at the shoulder, and are 4 to 6 feet tall when standing upright. Black bears are generally solitary except during the breeding season in summer, or when the sow has cubs. Sows generally breed when they are around 4 years old.