A natural bear lives according to it's natural cycle. Black bears are born during winter torpor , weighing less than a pound. Rarely does the mother waken during birth. Up to 3 young can be born and will stay in the den with the mother until spring. The number of young is partially determined by the mother's health as she enters her den.
Spring arrives and it's time to leave the den.
The young have grown five to ten pounds and will stay with mom for about eighteen months. During this time, they will learn the skills necessary to survive. Cubs continue nursing as they begin foraging. Bears are opportunists and take advantage of what is available. Spring offers grasses, flowers, and other vegetation.