In radio-telemetry studies of black bears (Ursus americanus) in the Catskill region of New York State during 1975-79, denning chronology was recorded for 62 den entries and 38 exits by 35 male and female bears 1 to 17 years of age. The median den entry date for female bears with cubs (22 November) was somewhat earlier than that for pregnant females (24 November) and barren females (30 November). Collectively, females denned significantly earlier than males (24 November versus 10 December). Median den emergence dates also varied with sex and reproductive status. Males were the first to leave their dens (26 March), followed by females with yearlings (5 April) and barren females (8 April). Females with cubs left their den site significantly later (15 April) than males and females with yearlings. Although autumn temperatures, snowfall, and snow depths differed significantly between years, they appeared unrelated to denning dates.
- Volume 5
- Issue
- Pages 87-93
- Publication Date 1 January 1983
- DOI 10.2307/3872523
- File Size 270.10 KB
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