Spirit Bear's Facts
Scientific Name: Ursus Americanus Kermode
Height: 4.5 to 5.5 feet long
Lifespan: 15–25 years in the wild
Gestation period: 8 months
Hibernation period: typically from October to April
Mass: average weight of 225 kg
More about Spirit Bears
The spirit bear is a subspecies of the North American black bear. They’re a rare morph of the black bear found in certain coastal areas of British Columbia.
They’re rare because they have a variation at the Mc1r gene (melanocortin 1 receptor), which is involved in melanin production. It also changes their fur color, making it white, cream, or pale yellow. They’re mostly found in places with a few other bears, like Princess Royal Island and Gribbell Island in British Columbia’s Great Bear Rainforest.
The gestation period for spirit bears is around 8 months. During this time, the mother bears will look for quiet, safe areas to give birth. Litters can range from 1 to 4 cubs, and they will stay with their mother until they are about 2 years old. The cubs are born blind and will rely heavily on their mother’s protection and guidance.
Spirit Bear's Diet
Spirit bears are omnivores and feed on a variety of fruits, nuts, and plants. They also consume salmon, which is an important source of protein for them.
Did you know?
- The spirit bear is the provincial animal of British Columbia. You might have even seen its image on the reverse of the Canadian $20 bill.
- The spirit bear is an important part of the First Nations’ culture and spirituality. They are considered sacred animals and are called “ghost bears” or “spirit bears”.
- The Gitksan and Kitasoo peoples believe that the spirit bear is an incarnation of the creator god. They believe that it can cure diseases and bring good luck.
- In Tsimshian languages, spirit bears are called moksgm’ol, and there are many cultural stories about them.
Spirit Bears' facts and tidbits
- Spirit bears are found in the coastal areas of British Columbia, Canada.
- They are the only bear species that are not found in zoos.
- Spirit bears are a subspecies of the black bear.
- They are known as Kermode bears, after Francis Kermode, the first person to study them in detail.
- There are an estimated 100–500 spirit bears in the wild.
- The spirit bear is the official animal of the Canadian province of British Columbia.
- Spirit bears are usually born during the months of May and June.
- Spirit bears can live for up to 25 years in the wild.
Check out this Great Bears Tales video and watch them in Klemtu.
