A study of the black bear (Ursus americanus) on a 100-km2 study area in the chaparral vegetation type of Arizona was initiated in 1973. During the subsequent 3.5-year period, 44 individual bears were captured and minimum density of 1 bear per 2 km2 was estimated. Twenty-eight bears were radio-instrumented and more than 1,100 locations were recorded. The radio-locations indicated that subadult males have a home range averaging 42 km2, adult males 29 km2, adult females 18 km2, and subadult females 13 km2. There is considerable overlap of home ranges among adult males. A lesser degree of overlap was observed for adult females. Twenty-four dens were located. Most den sites were at elevations between 1,300 and 1,500 m. Some bears den by 1 November, the majority by 15 November. Emergence from dens begins about 15 March and all bears, except females with cubs, leave their dens by 15 April. Females with cubs remain at den sites approximately 30 days longer.
- Volume 4
- Issue
- Pages 175-179
- Publication Date 1 January 1980
- DOI 10.2307/3872864
- File Size 210.37 KB
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