Wildlife Conservation

Wild Brown Bear Hibernation Disturbance

Disturbance of brown bears during hibernation is a significant welfare threat that can cause den abandonment and cub mortality.

Key Facts

Brown bears enter torpor from November through March in most of their range
Cubs are born in January or February during the mother's torpor
Den disturbance causes the mother to wake and potentially abandon cubs
Snowmobiles, logging, and recreation are common disturbance sources

Welfare Considerations

Bears disturbed during hibernation burn through limited fat reserves waking and responding to threats. Mothers that abandon cubs leave dependent young to die in freezing conditions. Even partial disturbance that does not cause abandonment depletes energy reserves needed to sustain the mother until spring. Winter recreation management that avoids known denning areas prevents significant welfare harms.

What You Can Do

Research bear denning areas before winter recreational activities
Follow winter recreation closures designed to protect denning bears
Support quiet recreation equipment that reduces disturbance
Advocate for seasonal closures of critical denning habitat