Oregon is known for its diverse wildlife, including many species of bears. Oregon is home to two species of bear, the American black bear and the grizzly bear. While the grizzly bear was once found throughout the state, it is now considered to be a threatened species in Oregon.
American Black Bear
The American black bear is the most common species of bear found in Oregon. They can be found in a variety of habitats, from the mountains to the coast. Black bears are omnivores, meaning they eat both plants and animals. They feed on a wide variety of foods, from berries and nuts to fish, small mammals, and insects.
Black bears are shy animals and usually try to avoid people. They are most active during the night and spend their days in dens or resting in trees. Black bears can be found in the Cascade Mountains, the Coast Range, and the Siskiyou Mountains.
Grizzly Bear
The grizzly bear is the largest bear species in Oregon. Once found throughout the state, the grizzly bear is now considered to be a threatened species in Oregon. The grizzly bear is an omnivore, feeding on plant matter such as berries, nuts, and roots, as well as small mammals, fish, and insects.
Grizzly bears are not as common as the black bear in Oregon. They can be found in the Cascade Mountains and the western portion of the Coast Range. Grizzly bears are shy and usually try to avoid people. They are most active during the night and spend their days in dens or resting in trees.
Bear Safety
It is important to know how to stay safe around bears. Bears can be dangerous animals, so it’s important to take precautions when interacting with them. Here are some tips for staying safe around bears:
Be Aware of Your Surroundings
When out in bear country, be aware of your surroundings. Pay attention to signs of bear activity, such as tracks, droppings, and fresh diggings. Be especially careful when hiking in areas with dense vegetation, as this is a common habitat for bears.
Make Noise
When out in bear country, make noise as you go. This will alert bears of your presence and give them a chance to get away. Singing, clapping, or talking loudly can help keep bears at a distance.
Carry Bear Spray
Bear spray is a highly effective deterrent that can be used to keep bears away. It is a good idea to carry bear spray when out in bear country.
Never Feed Bears
It is important to never feed bears, as this can lead to them becoming habituated to humans and becoming a nuisance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of bears are found in Oregon?
The two types of bears found in Oregon are the American black bear and the grizzly bear.
Where can bears be found in Oregon?
American black bears can be found throughout the state, while grizzly bears are found in the Cascade Mountains and the western portion of the Coast Range.
How should I stay safe around bears?
When out in bear country, be aware of your surroundings, make noise, carry bear spray, and never feed bears.
What do bears eat?
Bears are omnivores and feed on a wide variety of plant and animal matter, including berries, nuts, roots, small mammals, fish, and insects.
Do bears hibernate?
Bears do not typically hibernate, although they may become inactive for a period of time during the winter months.
What should I do if I encounter a bear?
If you encounter a bear, stay calm and do not run. Back away slowly and make sure the bear has an escape route. If the bear becomes aggressive, use bear spray or make loud noises to scare it away.
Are grizzly bears endangered in Oregon?
Grizzly bears are considered a threatened species in Oregon and are not as common as black bears.
Do bears attack humans?
Bears generally avoid people, but they can attack if they are startled, feel threatened, or are trying to protect their cubs.