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Nature

Brown Bear

What is brown bear?

· Emily Grant

Key facts

Scientific name Ursus arctos[1]
Type Mammal[1]
Diet Omnivore[1]
Distribution North America, Europe, Asia[1]
IUCN status Least concern[1]
Population More than 200,000 individuals[3]

A brown bear is a large omnivorous mammal, *Ursus arctos*, native to North America, Europe, and Asia, and one of the most widely distributed bear species in the world.

Context

The brown bear (*Ursus arctos*) is a large mammal found across North America, Europe, and Asia, and is considered one of the most widely distributed bear species globally [1]. As an omnivore, it feeds on berries, plant roots, small mammals, fish, and carrion [3]. Brown bears are distinguished from American black and polar bears by a shoulder hump, dish-shaped face, and long claws [2]. They typically live around 25 years in the wild [1]. The IUCN assessed the species as Least Concern in 2016, with a population of more than 200,000 individuals [4][3].

Documented claims

  • Brown bears are described as the most widely distributed bears in the world. [1]
  • They are distinguished from American black and polar bears by a shoulder hump, dish-shaped face, and long claws. [2]
  • They typically live around 25 years in the wild. [1]

Questions and answers

Are a brown bear and a grizzly bear the same?

Some sources say brown bears are also known as grizzlies [1].

Are there any brown bears in Canada?

Yes, brown bears are native to forests and mountains of northern North America, which includes Canada [1].

Is a brown bear harmless?

No, brown bears are large wild carnivores and can be dangerous; they have been clocked at speeds of 30 miles per hour [1].

Sources

  1. Brown Bear (Ursus arctos) Printer Friendly — adfg.alaska.gov (retrieved August 3, 2026)
  2. Brown Bear | National Geographic — nationalgeographic.com (retrieved August 3, 2026)
  3. Brown Bear — kids.nationalgeographic.com (retrieved August 3, 2026)
  4. 7 interesting facts about brown bears — bristolzoo.org.uk (retrieved August 3, 2026)

Sources last checked August 3, 2026. · More in Nature