Females are generally smaller than males. Distinguishing characteristics Smallest member of the North American bear family. Usually has straight facial profile and tapered nose with long nostrils. Feet are flat-soled with short curved claws. Smaller than grizzly and has a higher head carriage and straighter shoulder-rump line.
Females are generally smaller than males.
Distinguishing characteristics Prominent humps over the shoulders formed by the muscles of massive forelegs. Sloping back line. Dished or concave face. Long curved claws. A small grizzly is often difficult to distinguish from a large black bear.