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The most widespread and numerous bear of North America is the Black Bear,(so called) which is found in Alaska, the Great Lakes region and the mountainous areas of Canada and the United States. The name "Black Bear" is misleading when in fact, their colour can range from light brown to black and in the Northern regions even from gray to almost white forms can be found. A common trait though is their muzzle which is always cinnamon brown and straight in profile.
The young, usually twins, are born quite immature during the winter hibernation period. They will be quite matured, furred and ambulant when they emerge from the den come springtime.
A devoted mother, who often cuddles and plays with her cubs during the year or so they are with her is also a stern disciplinarian. Obedience is taught early. With dangers ever present, instant compliance to a command is demanded. Naturally curious and mischievous, a cub's waywardness will bring a swift cuff of her paw or a light nip.
Mimicry by the cubs is also useful in teaching. Here the more precocious cub copies his mother's menacing stance. He rises his full height on his hind legs, arms outstretched and utters what is yet a mellow roar. Somewhat more timid, his twin carefully watches the proceedings, perched on a nearby fallen limb. |
