Activity Patterns of Radio-Collared Black Bears in Idaho

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Abstract
Activity patterns of 13 radio-collared black bears (Ursus americanus) in west-central Idaho[USA] were studied between June 1973-Dec. 1974. Bears did not react in a significant way to the disturbances of an investigator. Females were more active than males during the early spring and late fall. Bears were primarily diurnal and crepuscular; they were less active and more nocturnal in early spring and late fall than in summer. Phenological patterns of 7 key food plants [Lomatium dissectum, Allium spp., Hydrophyllum capitatum, Prunus emarginata, P. virginiana, Vaccinium globulare, Sorbus scopulina] appeared to govern bear movements and habitat preferences. Bears occupied well-defined home ranges that remained stable from year to year. Home range areas of adults varied from 16.6-130.3 km2. Daily movements and home range areas of males were usually larger than those of females. Overlap of home ranges was extensive. Bears entered dens between 9 Oct.-27 Nov. and emerged in April.

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