Cubs

By the time hibernation has ended the cubs are bigger and full of energy. Bear cubs are really playful. Play fighting is very important for young bears because it teaches them to protect themselves and helps them get stronger. But if things get too rough, mama bear will discipline them by swatting them with her paw! Ouch!

Being a cub is not all fun and games. They are expected to follow their mother and learn how to find food or hunt. It’s kind of like school and will help them to survive on their own.

Cubs usually stay with their mothers until they are between 1½ and two years of age. Their mother will send them off on their own before she will mate again. Bear siblings that have left their mothers may stay together for another year for protection.