BLACK BEAR PREDATION ON YOUNG CERVIDS - A SUMMARY

Abstract

A literature search and personal communication with many field workers across North America, suggests that predation by black bear (Ursus americanus) upon neonate cervids may adversely affect recruitment in cervid populations. Such predation appears most important within the first two months following birth in moose (Alces alces), deer (Odocoileus spp) and elk (Cervus elaphus nelsoni).

Several studies in which predation has been systematically documented - mainly through tracking of radio-colloared prey - are discussed. Various characteristics utilized in identification of the predator at the kill site are described, including the phenomenon of prey “skinning” (everting) and its implications with regards to bear scat and digestive tract analysis studies. Coincident seasonal habitat preferences by black bear and cervids are discussed. Various documented “eyewitness” accounts of black bear predation on moose, white-tailed deer and elk are summarized in map form. The implications of excessive (predator-kill) calf loss to a moose population in which a selective harvest system places greater stress on the calf segment are discussed.