Animal Facts
Scientific Name
Ursus Americanus
Range
A wide range, throughout Alaska, Canada, parts of the continental United States and Mexico.
Location in the Zoo
Across from African lions
Cool Animal Fact
Bears in northern ranges hibernate in winter. In the south, bears may remain active or go through a winter dormancy period termed “carnivorean lethargy.”
How we Help Save Them
- The Houston Zoo designed the Texas black bear reporting signs that are used all over the state.
- We use 100% recycled content toilet paper in all Zoo restrooms.
- We have cut our paper usage by more than 50% since 2016 by buying in bulk and only purchasing 100% recycled content paper.
How You Can Help
- Bears need trees to live, so by using less paper or recycled-content paper products, fewer trees are cut down meaning you are contributing to saving black bears in the wild!
- Consider going paperless for billing or even when purchasing tickets for your next visit to the Zoo.

Recycle Your Holiday Lights at the Zoo to Save Wildlife
November 15, 2022For the sixth straight year, the Houston Zoo is partnering with the community to save wildlife by recycling unwanted holiday string lights. Whether burned out, broken, or ready to be upgraded to energy-saving…