Compare the Black Bear and The Grizzly
Take the Bear ID Test.....Click Here!

Grizzly Bear

• Color varies from blond to black. Often medium-to dark-brown legs, hump, and underparts with light-tipped (grizzled) fur on head and upper body.
  
• Average weight is 500 pounds for males and 350 for females. Males may weigh up to 800 pounds.
   
• Height is 3.5 – 4 feet at shoulder when on all fours, and 6 –7 feet when standing upright.
   
• Distinctive shoulder hump is actually muscle mass that enables powerful digging.
   
• Rump is lower than shoulder hump.
   
• A dished-in profile between eyes and end of snout helps distinguish grizzlies from black bears.
   
• Ears are round and proportionately small.
   
• Front claws are 2-4 inches long, usually light colored.

Black Bear

• Colors include black, brown, blond, cinnamon, and rust. The most common snout color is light brown.
  
• Average weight in the West is 100 – 300 pounds, with males usually larger than females. Males may weigh up to 400 or more pounds.
   
• Height is 2.5 – 3 feet at the shoulder when standing on all fours and 5 feet standing upright.
   
• Rump is higher than front shoulders. Does not have a shoulder hump/muscle.
   
• Face profile is straight; muzzle is long.
   
• Ears may be long and prominent.
   
• Front claws are less than 2 inches long, dark colored, sharp, curved, and good for climbing. Claw marks do not always show in tracks.