Black Bear
Plate No. 05Mammal · Bear
Species Profile

Black Bear

Ursus americanus

The largest mammal you're likely to encounter near El Porvenir. Despite the name, black bears around here come in cinnamon, blonde, and chocolate. Store food well — they remember every cabin.

Habitat
Mixed conifer forest, oak thickets, canyon riparian
Diet
Omnivore — berries, acorns, insects, carrion, the occasional trash can
Size
150–500 lb
Status
Common in Sangre de Cristos · New Mexico State Mammal
§ Field Notes

Fun facts.

01

New Mexico's official state mammal since 1963.

02

Can smell food from over a mile away.

03

‘Smokey Bear’ was a real cub rescued from a 1950 fire in Lincoln NF.

04

Climbs trees easily, even as a 400 lb adult.

Previous Plate
Black-Tailed Jackrabbit
Next Plate
Plateau Fence Lizard
El Porvenir

San Miguel County · New Mexico

A community field guide to the creatures of the Sangre de Cristo foothills — from cold trout streams to old-growth conifer canyons.

Field Notes

Observe at a distance. Pack out what you pack in. Leave the wildflowers. The mountain remembers everything.

© 2026 El Porvenir Wildlife GuideVol. I · Field Edition

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