Denning behavior of Black Bears, Ursus americanus, in western Manitoba

Abstract

Denning habits of Black Bears, Ursus americanus, were studied in western Manitoba from May 1979 to April 1981. Of 25 dens examined, 23 were excavated and all but one contained nesting material. Black Bears constructed dens in all major habitat types found in the study area. Females constructed dens within the confines of their summer range. Subadult males often utilized den sites in the Duck Mountain Provincial Forest after an abrupt move of 20-42 km away from their summer activity center.