Throughout the world, bears are declining in numbers and range as habitat is reduced and bear-human interactions increase. Although ursids are widely distributed and inhabit a variety of habitats, they possess a number of biological characteristics that make them particularly vulnerable to conflict with humans. The habitat concept is discussed relative to the unique characteristics of bears. Because bears are wide-ranging species of landscapes, habitat relationships must be evaluated on a broader context than habitat types per se. Human activities and land uses must be factored into bear habitat relationships. Forest clearing and road building, in particular, are common problems for the conservation and management of many bear populations. An understanding of the processes of habitat fragmentation and population extinction is necessary for maintaining viable bear populations in the face of increasing habitat destruction and isolation. Several management tools and research needs for bear habitat management are discussed.
- Volume 8
- Issue
- Pages 143-154
- Publication Date 1 January 1990
- DOI 10.2307/3872914
- File Size 624.92 KB
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