Large mammals that belong to the Ursidae family, the eight different species of bear can be found in several different habitats on the continents of Asia, North America, South America and Europe.
In February of 2009, a video, which shows several bears inside a zoo enclosure, was updated to the LiveLeak video sharing website. The bears, who are begging for food from the observers, can be seen acting out several human-like gestures, including waving and jumping, to get the audience's attention.LiveLeak Video: Bears Beg For Food (Time: 1:01)
Bear Safety
Bears will typically not attack unless they feel threatened, but it is still important to avoid bears whenver possible. Do not feed bears, as they will return to find more food. Food should also not be left where a bear can get it. If encountered by a bear, talk in a calm voice and slowly back away. If attacked by a bear, lay on the ground and play dead. Once the bear realizes that it is not in danger, it will move on.Bearsmart.com: Bears for Dummies
Bears in Popular Culture
Bear Species
- Black Bear
- Brown Bear
- polar bear
- Sloth Bear
- Sun Bear
- Spectacled bear
- Asiatic black bear
- PandasBears.org: Species
References
Fast Facts
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Related to dogs
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All species are classified as carnivores, although most also eat varying amounts of vegetationBears.org: Species
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Bears that live in northern climates often hibernate during winter
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Appearance
Large bodies, short legs, small ears and stubby tailsBears.org: Species
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Some species are highly territorialBlack Forest Bear Park: Fun Bear Facts
