Photo of a Black Bear Cub

Black bear cub in a tree.  Mother bears will often send their cubs up into the safety of a tree if larger bears (who might seek to injure the cubs) are nearby.  Black bears have sharp claws and, in spite of their size, are expert tree climbers, Ursus americanus, Orr, Minnesota

Black bear cub in a tree. Mother bears will often send their cubs up into the safety of a tree if larger bears (who might seek to injure the cubs) are nearby. Black bears have sharp claws and, in spite of their size, are expert tree climbers.
Image ID: 18746
Species: American black bear, Ursus americanus
Location: Orr, Minnesota, USA

This is a “spring cub”, an American black bear (Ursus americanus) cub that was born this spring. It will remain with its mother for about a year. At this size it is completely dependent on its mother for everything. A black bear cub is a natural climber and it is common for them to scamper 40 – 60′ up a tree trunk to avoid danger. Wedging itself in the crook of a branch, the cub will remain in the tree for hours until its mother grunts at the base of the tree, indicating it is time to come down.

About Phil Colla

I am a natural history photographer. I enjoy making compelling images in the ocean, on land, and in the air. I have maintained the Natural History Photography blog since 2005 and my searchable Natural History Photography Library since 1997. Here are some tear sheets and behind the scenes views. Thanks for looking!