We looked down into the forest, and sure enough there was an Ursus americanus looking right up at us. You can probably imagine my astonishment and initial disbelief, which then quickly turned into awe-inspired happiness. It acknowledged our presence and continued along its way, waddling along its path, almost as if it were on a Sunday stroll, just as we had been. My natural history sighting dream had been granted and within seconds it was over, but even today I still feel the excitement of seeing a bear in the wild for my very first time. It will be one of my top highlights of my stay here in the States, I am sure.
Most black bears are black in color or a darker shade of brown.
It inhabits wooded and mountainous areas throughout most of North America, from Alaska to Florida, Canada to Mexico. Much of its historical habitat has been destroyed, but the black bear has adapted and survived. Rugged terrain and dense shrubs provide escape cover and den sites for black bears. They also seek den sites under fallen trees, in hollows or caves, or in previously occupied dens. They are excellent tree climbers and will use trees to escape from danger.