The black bear has made its place in this world and is flourishing in North America. It’s estimated that there are at least 600,000 black bears in North America, with some studies indicating that their numbers could be significantly higher. There is so much we can learn from the black bear if we pay attention to how they live. They can teach us about:

• Adaptability
• Opportunism
• Resourcefulness
• Versatility
• Nurturing
• Introspection

One of the black bears’ greatest magic is their adaptability. Black bears can adapt to almost any terrain or climate. They can be found in forests, woodlands, mountains, swamps and even deserts. Their habitat covers a majority of North America, from Canada through the United States (including Alaska) and into Northern Mexico. They are skilled swimmers as well as excellent tree climbers. If the black bear has presented itself to you, it could be encouraging you to adapt to a new environment. There is no need to limit yourself. You have the power to go and do whatever you please. The world is your oyster! Perhaps putting yourself in a new environment could be the thing you need to thrive!

The black bear’s adaptability comes effortlessly through its opportunistic nature. Their diet consists of a wide variety of foods and the easier it is to get, the better. While they do consume meat and fish, they also love to dine on an assortment of berries, roots, grasses and insects. Mmmmm…the little cream filled kind. 😉 They must consume a lot to prepare for hibernation, and they don’t turn their noses up at much. So, if they come across a campsite with food left out, trashcans, or even carrion, they will most definitely take advantage of the free meal. This doesn’t mean we should start eating garbage or seek personal gain at the expense of others. However, it does show us to seize opportunities. If something tasty in life has landed in your lap, take advantage and gobble it up! The universe has just given you a free meal ticket! This opportunity may not come around a second time.

During the warmer months, the black bear will sleep in many different places. They do love to sleep in caves and dens but have no issues sleeping high in a tree or even sprawled out on the ground. If they are looking for a little added comfort, they will scratch the bark off of trees or rake up a pile of leaves for some bedding. Just like black bear, if we practice resourcefulness, we can make the most out of the resources that are given to us. The black bear has shown it’s versatility in many ways and has proven that this is the way to thrive. Life becomes much simpler when you can eliminate many hardships by being open to different approaches.

Mother black bears are extremely nurturing, teaching their cubs everything they need to know to survive. Black bears will typically give birth to two or three cubs in mid-winter and nurse them until spring. Mama bear is extremely protective so that her cubs don’t succumb to harm from mountain lions, wolves, coyotes, grizzlies or even bobcats. If you are a mother, the black bear is a wonderful totem for summoning strength, courage and power. With black bear’s great power at your back, no one will want to mess with your cubs!

Our final, and perhaps most imperative, lesson from the black bear’s book of magic is introspection. The most widely known fact about black bears is that they hibernate in the winter. The warmer months are spent preparing and putting on as much weight as possible before their long, peaceful slumber, when the snow falls and nature sleeps. A quiet, gray stillness takes over and we are made to wait. If you feel a connection to the black bear, it could be time to sit quietly in your own den. Take a breath, slow your mind and listen to what your heart is telling you. Spending time with deep-rooted emotions can help tremendously when seeking answers.

How has the black bear shown up in your life? What does it mean to you? Share your story in the comments below. I’d love to hear it!

Thanks for reading! I hope you enjoyed learning about the black bear as much as I did!

Stay magical, free spirits!

“The story ends up being a journey of self-discovery.” – Elijah Wood

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