Bears, belonging to the family Ursidae, are widespread carnivoran mammals with eight extant species inhabiting diverse regions across North and South America, and Eurasia. These formidable animals are characterized by their large, stocky build, shaggy hair, and keen sense of smell, and most are omnivorous, though diets range from the carnivorous polar bear to the herbivorous giant panda. Typically solitary, bears are adept runners, climbers, and swimmers, with most species hibernating in winter dens for up to 100 days.
Historically hunted for their meat and fur, bears hold a prominent place in human culture, inspiring myths, art, and even the oldest known euphemism for the animal due to ancient fears, with the English word "bear" possibly meaning "the brown one" or "wild animal." Despite their cultural significance, six bear species are now listed as vulnerable or endangered, facing severe threats from habitat encroachment, poaching, and illegal trade in bear parts, challenges that regrettably persist today. Their fossil record traces back to small, raccoon-like ancestors such as Parictis and Allocyon, appearing in North America approximately 38 to 18 million years ago.