General Comparison of Reproductive Potential of Big Game Species in Ontario
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Bear experts will confirm that bear populations do not explode. Unlike many other animals black bears do not have a high reproductive rate. Reasons for this include:
- Black bears are among the slowest reproducing mammals.
- Female bears typically produce their first litter of cubs when they are between the ages of five and seven years old.
- The average litter size is two to three cubs.
- At best, female bears produce cubs every two years.
- A female bear's ability to consume enough food during the summer and fall will determine whether or not she will produce cubs the following year.
Ontario's black bear population has remained stable and is estimated to be between 75,000 and 100,000 bears.
Download a PDF version of this chart.
TO REPORT BEAR PROBLEMS: contact the Bear Reporting Line at:
1-866-514-2327 (TTY) 705 945-7641
In a life-threatening emergency, call your local police or 911.
