North American Bears

North America has three bear species, and nearly all bear hunting is for the black bear.

Black bear

The black bear is the most widespread bear in North America. Despite the name, many are brown, cinnamon or blond.

Grizzly and brown bear

Grizzlies in the lower 48 states are protected under the Endangered Species Act. Brown bears are hunted in Alaska under strict rules and draw permits.

Polar bear

Polar bears are protected, with very limited harvest by Alaska Natives.

Sources

• TRAFFIC North America: In the Black, status and management of the American black bear