Bears in Hyperphagia: A seasonal strategy for survival
A grizzly bear. (Courtesy/Swan Valley Connections)
The first brisk mornings of early fall have people thinking about pulling out winter coats, flannels, and hats in preparation for the winter ahead. Bears are also preparing for the cold winter in Montana. However, instead of wool coats and mittens, their idea of bundling up involves layering on a few extra hundred pounds of fat reserves.
In severe winter climates like ours, bears rely heavily on fat reserves to sustain them through torpor, also known as hibernation, which is a prolonged period of inactivity that conserves energy by reducing metabolism and body temperature. To ensure they have enough fatreserves to survive torpor, bears will enter a state called hyperphagia, which translates to "excessive eating." During this time, bears aim to consume upwards of 20,000 calories per day—roughly ten times the average daily caloric intake of humans. This phase typically begins in late summer and can last until early winter when bears bed down for winter.
Bears will become less selective about food sources and opt for the highest-calorie options, foraging for up to 20 hours a day. Natural high-calorie foods in our region can include nuts and scavenged carcasses, but bears will also consume fruits, grasses, insects, and more to reach their daily caloric goals. So, what does this bear-binge mean for us and our actions?
Become a Subscriber!
You have read all of your free articles this month. Select a plan below to start your subscription today.
Already a subscriber? Login
