Types of Bears in New Mexico
New Mexico is home to only one bear species: the black bear. While you won't find grizzlies here, black bears come in several color phases from black to cinnamon. Most sightings occur in the mountainous forests of the northern and western parts of the state.
New Mexico is home to only one bear species: the black bear. While you won't find grizzlies here, black bears come in several color phases from black to cinnamon. Most sightings occur in the mountainous forests of the northern and western parts of the state.
What is the most common bear species in New Mexico?
The American black bear (Ursus americanus) is the only bear species found in New Mexico. They are widespread across the state's forests, especially in the Sangre de Cristo, Jemez, and San Juan mountains. While black is the most common color, about half of New Mexico's black bears are actually brown or cinnamon.
What are the different color phases of black bears in New Mexico?
Black bears in New Mexico display a range of color phases: black, brown, cinnamon, and even blond. The cinnamon phase is especially common in the Southwest. Size and shape are the same across phases. To identify a bear, look for a straight face profile and no shoulder hump (unlike grizzlies).
Where and when are you most likely to see black bears in New Mexico?
Start in the high-elevation forests of the Gila National Forest, Carson National Forest, or the Pecos Wilderness. Bear activity peaks in spring (April-June) when they emerge from dens and in late summer (August-October) when they feed heavily before hibernation. Look near oak brush and berry patches.
See ourBears typesfor the next step.
How do black bears differ from grizzly bears?
Grizzly bears (brown bears) have not roamed New Mexico since the early 1900s. Black bears are smaller, with a straight facial profile and no prominent shoulder hump. Grizzlies have a dished face, a large hump, and longer claws. If you see a bear in New Mexico, it is always a black bear.
See ourstate animal guidefor the next step.
What should you do if you encounter a black bear in New Mexico?
Stay calm and do not run. Make yourself look large by raising your arms. Speak in a calm, firm voice. Back away slowly without turning your back. Never approach a bear, especially cubs. Most New Mexico black bears are shy and will leave if given space.
Are there any other bear species in New Mexico?
No. Only the black bear lives in New Mexico. Occasionally, wandering individuals from adjacent states might pass through, but no other species are established. The Mexican black bear (a subspecies) may have historically occurred in the southern mountains, but it is now considered extirpated.