Black Bears are the bears people most often encounter. Black bears live in forests over much of North America, unlike grizzlies that live only in Alaska, northern and western Canada, and the northern Rocky Mountains. This document presents the latest information on black bear life and how this species responds to an ever-increasing number of campers, hikers, and forest residents. Sections include: Reactions To People, Communication, Finding Food, Hibernation, Movements and Social Organization, Raising Cubs, The Black Bear in Settled America, Black Bear Characteristics, Range, Optimum Habitat, and Long-Term Problem.