Quick Answer
Mature black bears in Saskatchewan exhibit distinct feeding habits compared to younger bears, with a greater emphasis on terrestrial food sources and less reliance on insects and small vertebrates. This shift is likely due to increased size and dietary needs. As bears mature, they adapt their foraging strategies to optimize nutrient intake.
Dietary Shifts in Mature Black Bears
In Saskatchewan, black bears exhibit significant dietary changes as they mature. Research suggests that younger bears (<2 years old) consume a diet rich in insects (up to 70% of their diet) and small vertebrates, while older bears (>5 years old) focus on terrestrial food sources such as nuts, fruits, and berries. This transition is likely driven by the increased caloric needs of mature bears, which require more energy to sustain growth and maintain basic bodily functions.
Foraging Strategies of Mature Black Bears
Mature black bears in Saskatchewan employ a range of foraging strategies to locate and exploit terrestrial food sources. These bears use their keen sense of smell to locate nut-bearing trees, such as hazelnut and beechnut, and exploit these resources through “cacheing,” where they store food in hidden locations for later consumption. In areas with abundant berry crops, mature bears will also engage in “gorging,” consuming large quantities of berries in a short period to maximize energy intake.
Habitat Use and Foraging Success
Mature black bears in Saskatchewan tend to occupy habitats with high levels of terrestrial food productivity, such as deciduous forests and riparian zones. These areas provide an abundance of food sources, including nuts, fruits, and insects, which support the high energy demands of mature bears. In contrast, younger bears may occupy habitats with lower food productivity, such as early-successional forests, where they must rely more heavily on insects and small vertebrates to survive.
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