The cinnamon bear is a color variation of the American black bear (Ursus americanus), distinguished by its reddish-brown fur. Its striking coloration makes it a subject of fascination, often leading to questions about its identity and origins within the bear family.
Identity and Classification
The cinnamon bear is not a distinct species or subspecies, but rather a color morph of the American black bear. This means it is genetically the same as any other American black bear, with the only difference being its fur coloration. The reddish-brown hue results from a specific genetic variation, with scientists identifying a gene variant, TYRP1R153C, which influences melanin production and is responsible for this cinnamon coloration. This genetic trait leads to a dominant reddish-yellow pigment called pheomelanin, giving the fur its distinctive shade. They can interbreed with black bears, and a litter can include cubs of various colors, including black, brown, or reddish-brown.
Distinctive Appearance
The fur of a cinnamon bear displays a range of reddish-brown shades, from a light reddish-blonde to a deep, rich cinnamon color. The coat can also appear thicker, longer, and finer than that typically seen on black-furred black bears. While the exact shade can vary, this reddish-brown fur provides a noticeable contrast to the more common black fur of most American black bears. Some researchers propose that this brownish coat may mimic grizzly bears, offering a form of camouflage. The color can also shift seasonally or with the bear’s age, further contributing to the variations observed.
Where They Roam
Cinnamon bears share the same geographical distribution as other American black bears across North America. They are observed more frequently in certain regions. These areas include the western United States, such as Wyoming, western Montana, Idaho, and eastern Colorado, as well as parts of Canada, including Waterton, Banff, and Jasper National Parks. They inhabit diverse environments, including forests and mountainous terrains. The brown fur may offer advantageous camouflage in drier, more arid regions with dry grasses, dead tree limbs, and exposed rocks.
Their Way of Life
The lifestyle of a cinnamon bear mirrors that of any other American black bear. These bears are omnivores, consuming a varied diet that includes fruits, vegetation, nuts, and honey. They also occasionally eat insects and meat, adapting their diet based on regional habitat differences. Cinnamon bears are skilled climbers, capable runners, and proficient swimmers. While they are mostly nocturnal, they can sometimes be active during daylight hours. These bears hibernate during the colder months, typically from late October or November until March or April, with the exact timing influenced by weather conditions; females usually give birth to two to three cubs per litter during hibernation.