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