Facial Recognition Tech for Bears Might Just Be the Future of Conservation
The surveillance state meets animal research.
Bear Science
Bearpacker
Bears: They're big, they're out there, and for hikers, they're equal parts terrifying and fascinating. Get to know the North American wilderness's undisputed royalty with Bearpacker, our annual guide to bear science, safety, and sightseeing.
In the Woods of Oklahoma, Researchers Are Helping to Rebuild a Bear Population
Researchers tracking bears resettling in the southeast watch and learn their habits to help humans adjust to their new neighbors.
This Is What Happens When You Strap a GoPro to a Bear
There are hundreds of thousands of black bears in America, and we know precious little about what they do with their time. The researchers of the #BearsEyeView project are trying to change that.
The Pacific Northwest Trail is Pitting Hikers Against Grizzly Bear Activists
In a remote corner of Montana, backpackers and wildlife advocates clash over the future of a bear population hanging on for dear life.
Here's What it's Really Like to Work in Polar Bear Country
Polar Bears International's Geoff York has been studying Arctic wildlife for more than 20 years. In that time he's had some magical moments—and a few close shaves.
PODCAST: How to Stay Safe Around Bears
Are bears dangerous? Not if you plan ahead. Learn to stay safe in bear country with these tips from researcher Tom Smith.
Spirit Bears Capture Hikers’ Imagination—But They May Be Getting Rarer
Kermode bears, British Columbia's famous white bears, may be in decline as salmon populations drop. What do we lose if one of the world’s most striking animals disappears?
Introducing BEARPACKER Magazine
This week, we're paying homage to our favorite backcountry fauna with bear science, safety, and advice. Dive in and get to know the original masters of staying at home.
The Best Gear for Hikers Who Love Bears
The best way to show your respect for bears is from a safe distance. Or by wearing them on your socks.
Quiz: Can You Tell Black Bears and Grizzlies Apart?
See if you have the knowledge to ID the lower 48's bruins.
What Wildfires Mean for Bears
Fire seasons are getting worse and longer, and humans aren’t the only ones affected. When the forest burns, what happens to its inhabitants?
Rangers and Bear Researchers Share Their Best Grizzly Encounters
While thousands of people flock to U.S. national parks each year in hopes of seeing a bear, spotting one out in its element is just another day in the office for some employees.
Quiz: What Kind of Bear Are You?
There are many kinds of bears in the world. Which matches your personality? Take our quiz and find out.
Human vs. Bear: Can Our Editors Survive?
BACKPACKER staffers try their hand at surviving like North America's greatest predator.
When Polar Bears Break the Rules in Churchill, They Go to Bear Jail
In the Polar Bear Capital of the World, where encounters between animals and people are a fact of life, a 50-year-old program keeps both safe.
Bear Movies, Ranked by Realism
Killer grizzlies and cuddly teddies make for good movie fodder, but are they accurate? Our scout goes on a cinematic journey to find out.
Meet Otis, the Fattest Bear
Otis the bear is one glorious half-ton of fur and blubber, and for the second year in a row, he's the winner of Katmai National Park's Fat Bear Championship.
This Vet Gives Baby Bears a Second Chance
Bear rehabber Kathleen Ramsay has rehabilitated hundreds of bears—orphaned, sick, hit by cars. Under her care, they get another shot at growing up.
Quiz: Test Your Bear Knowledge
How much do really know about our furry neighbors? Take our bear quiz and find out.