Stan TekielaBears of North America
Black Bears, Brown Bears, and Polar Bears
Naturalist, wildlife photographer, and writer Stan Tekiela is the author of more than 190 field guides, nature books, children’s books, and playing cards, presenting many species of birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, trees, wildflowers, and cacti in the United States. With a Bachelor of Science degree in Natural History from the University of Minnesota and as an active professional naturalist for more than 35 years, Stan studies and photographs wildlife throughout the United States and Canada. He has received various national and regional awards for his books and photographs. Also a well-known columnist and radio personality, his syndicated column appears in more than 25 newspapers and his wildlife programs are broadcast on a number of Midwest radio stations.
Bears—a lifelong affair
An eminent history
The bear family
Origins of the species
Species around the world
Black Bears
Brown Bears
Polar Bears
Is it a Black Bear or a Brown Bear?
Names of distinction
Sizes north to south
Considerations of weight
Life expectancy
Roaming the home range
Step-for-step paths
Scent marking
Claw scraping
Posturing to communicate
Expression of aggression
Congeniality
Not just smart—resourceful
Large skull and jaws
Claws and paws
Tiny tails
Snouts and scents
Fuzzy ears, sharp hearing
Sight, near and far
Strong, stout legs
Gait
Masters at running
Standing advantage
Tracks and trails
Silent travelers
Swimming trips
Climbing trees
Sleeping in trees
Daybed naps
Play fighting
Color palette
Furry coat
Hollow hair
Black Bear blaze
White, but not albino
Shedding
Potluck diet
Breeding time
Ready to mate
Unusual gestation
Birthing
Newborn and helpless
Eyes open
Mother’s milk
Nursing duty
Litter size
Family planning
A difficult beginning
Mixing up cubs
The miracle of hibernation
Den diversity
Preparing for winter
Emerging in spring
Cautionary measures
Respecting bears
Featured bears
Where to spot bears in the wild
About the author
