What Is Bear Hibernation?

by Jenn Smith December 03, 2019

We were brought up to think that bear hibernation was when bears fells asleep in the wintertime only to be woken up in the spring ready to eat. However, this is not the case.

Bear hibernation is when bear movement slows down in order to slow metabolism and preserve energy. They will rest during the harsh winter months and begin to heavily eat again in the spring beginning in March (and as early as February).

Bear Diet

During the fall, bears will pack on calories, eating between 30-90 pounds of food each day. They will eat grasses, nuts, plants, fruits and small mammals including fawns and calves.

In the fall and winter months, homeowners may see bear activity on lawns and gardens. Therefore, it is recommended to install bear netting around properties for bear deterrence. Electric fencing is one of the only types of fence on the market strong enough to reduce the sight of bears on landscapes.

Like other wild animals, bear damage in gardens will be stronger in the spring.