Despite apparent differences in size and color, grizzly and black bears can be difficult to tell apart.

It is extremely important to know which species is which when you encounter a bear in your community or in the backcountry. The way you react to the two different types of bears is key to recreating within bear country.

Contrary to its name, black bears can be black, blue-black, dark brown, brown, cinnamon and even white. Grizzlies can range in color, from black to blonde. Although grizzly bears tend to be significantly larger than black bears, size is not always a good indicator of which species is which. Grizzly bears can weigh between 200 - 650 pounds depending on their age and gender. Black bears tend to weigh between 200 - 300 pounds. Even under the best of conditions you’ll find it’s nearly impossible to judge the size and weight of a bear in the wild.

Identify the bear species by the shoulder size, facial profile and claw length.