Bears are omnivores, meaning they eat both plants and animals. Their diet is diverse and varies by species, season, and habitat, but generally includes the following:
- Plants and fruits: A large portion of a bear's diet consists of vegetation such as berries, fruits (like cherries, raspberries, blueberries, and crabapples), nuts, roots, leaves, grasses, and tree bark. For many bears, plant matter can make up around 70-90% of their diet
- Insects: Bears consume insects such as ants, bees, termites, and larvae, which provide essential proteins and fats
- Fish and meat: Bears eat fish (notably salmon in some regions), small mammals, birds, and carrion (dead animals). Some bears also hunt larger animals like deer, moose, or elk, especially newborns or weakened individuals
- Seasonal variation: In spring, bears eat fresh vegetation, shoots, and carrion left from winter. In summer and fall, they focus on high-energy foods like fruits, nuts, and insects to build fat reserves for hibernation. During hibernation, bears do not eat and rely on stored fat
- Special treats: Bears enjoy honey and will skillfully raid beehives despite bee attacks
Overall, bears adapt their diet to available food sources, with plant-based foods dominating but supplemented by animal protein for balanced nutrition
