The Canadian grizzly bear, a subspecies of the brown bear, stands as a powerful symbol of Canada’s wild spaces. Known scientifically as Ursus arctos horribilis, this mammal embodies the rugged beauty of the country’s diverse ecosystems. As an apex predator, its presence often indicates a healthy and functioning wilderness.
Physical Traits and Canadian Range
Canadian grizzly bears have several distinguishing physical characteristics. A prominent muscular hump on their shoulders aids in powerful digging. They also have a concave facial profile and long front claws, which are not retractable.
Their fur coloration varies widely, ranging from blonde to dark brown, and sometimes even black. The tips of hairs on their flanks, backs, and shoulders often have white tips, giving them a “grizzled” appearance and their common name. Adult male grizzlies typically weigh between 180 to 270 kilograms, while females are smaller, averaging 100 to 150 kilograms, though coastal populations can be significantly larger due to abundant food sources.
The Canadian grizzly bear’s range extends across much of western and northern Canada. They are found in British Columbia, Alberta, Yukon, the Northwest Territories, and Nunavut, with smaller populations in northern Manitoba. These bears inhabit a variety of landscapes, including dense forests, alpine meadows, and Arctic tundra.
Diet and Life Cycle
Grizzly bears are omnivorous, adapting their foraging to seasonal availability. While often perceived as primarily carnivorous, vegetation like grass, nuts, seeds, and berries can make up 80 to 90 percent of their diet. They also consume roots and various insects, such as ants and their larvae.
When available, grizzlies will hunt small mammals, such as ground squirrels and marmots. A significant food source, particularly for coastal populations, is spawning salmon, which provides a rich source of protein and fat for hibernation. Their powerful digging muscles allow them to unearth roots, tubers, and burrowing animals.
Grizzly bears enter a state of dormancy in winter dens, though they can awaken periodically. Cubs are born in the den during January or February, typically in litters of one to three. Females usually have their first litter around six years of age, with intervals between litters commonly spanning three to four years. Cubs remain with their mother for approximately two to three years, learning essential survival skills before dispersing.
Conservation and Coexistence
The conservation status of Canadian grizzly bears varies by region, with some populations listed as “Special Concern” in areas like the Yukon. Major threats to their populations include habitat fragmentation, which limits their movement and access to resources, and human-wildlife conflict. Climate change also risks impacting food availability and denning habitats.
To promote coexistence with grizzly bears, several practices are recommended. Making noise while hiking helps to avoid surprising a bear, giving it time to move away. Carrying bear spray and knowing how to use it can deter an approaching bear.
Proper food storage is important in bear country; all food and scented items should be stored in bear-resistant containers or hung from a tree, away from campsites. Staying on marked trails and avoiding areas with known bear activity helps minimize human disturbance. These actions contribute to the safety of both humans and bears.