Do black bears have poor vision? Do they have good senses of smell and hearing?
Black bears probably do have poor vision when compared to humans. However, black bears have color vision and excellent near vision and pattern discrimination. These abilities undoubtedly help the animal forage for small, scattered food items. The bears probably focus on acorns and other food items both by sight and smell. In experiments, black bears have retained memory of specific shapes and patterns for up to 8 months. This ability undoubtedly helps them remember specific food sources over time. Smell is undoubtedly the most important of the bear’s senses. Bears use olfaction both to discern distant odors and to identify objects at close range. Although not tested in the experimental sense, bears can probably identify carcasses from several miles distance. Black bears may stand briefly on their hind legs, possibly to see over vegetation, but also to better scent the person or item that they are sensing. Cubs frequently sniff, lick, and mouth a wide range of plants and other potential
