How Do Bears Mate?
About Bears There are many different species of bears, from grizzly bears to polar bears to black bears. Many bears are considered endangered today due to development in their natural habitat and illegal hunting. Most female bears are ready to mate by the time they are 3 years old and typically mate until they reach about 8 years of age. Black bears mate in their fourth year, whereas grizzlies might wait until they are 7 years of age. Mating Season Bears tend to mate in the spring. Most bears mate from May to June, just after they emerge from hibernation. The females leave “scent trails” to attract males for mating. This can sometimes attract more than one male bear, which leads to fighting For grizzlies, the males court the females by following them and making snorting sounds. This process may last several days. Female bears have learned to be wary of larger male bears and the male has to gain her trust. Once the courtship period ends, mating begins. Mating usually takes course over s
