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Grizzly Bear

Grizzly Bear

Common Name:
Grizzly Bear
Scientific Name:
Ursus arctos
Gestation Period:
65 days
Habitats:
  • Forest
  • Grassland
  • Savanna
Height:
3 ft
Length:
7 ft
Life Span:
23 yrs
Number of Young:
2
Weight:
700 lb
About:

Did you know waste materials produced when in torpor are not excreted but recycled within the body? Learn more about grizzly bears.

Care & Wellness:

The North Carolina Zoo’s behavioral management program includes training and enrichment for all animals. Much training lets the animals participate in their own preventative health care. The grizzly bears voluntarily receive vaccinations, nail trims, and allow keepers to brush their teeth.

Behavior:
  • Grizzly bears are solitary, coming together only during breeding season.
  • Females fiercely defend their cubs from any perceived danger.
  • Grizzly bears go through a "torpor" (extended period of inactivity) in winter, not a true hibernation.
Endangered Status
  • Extinct in Wild (EW)
  • Critically Endangered (CR)
  • Endangered (EN)
  • Vulnerable (VU)
  • Near Threatened (NT)
  • Least Concern (LC)
  • Not Evaluated (NE)
Fun Facts:
  • Waste materials produced when in torpor are not excreted but recycled within the body.
  • Their long claws are great for digging out insects and larvae.
  • Can reach speeds of 30 MPH for short distances
  • They are very opportunistic feeders, which gets them into trouble in popular camping areas.
A grizzly bear looking up from swimming in its pool.