Ursine: The Embodiment of the Warrior

Bears are just awesome.  Large and in charge, they are known for their strength.  They are the apex predators in most any environment they habitat.  In fact, the only predator known to attack bears are tigers. 

Bears have had a strong impact on culture dating back to prehistoric times.  When you think of hibernation, an image of a bear sleeping in a cave mostly likely comes to mind.  There are numerous folk and children's stories about bears.  More recent ones include Winnie the Pooh, Yogi Bear, and the Care Bears.

There are only around 8 species of bears in the world however they are distributed widely inhabiting every continent except Africa and Australia.  Bears are in the caniform superfamily meaning they have a dog-like resemblance.  They are closely related to the family of marine mammals that includes seals and walruses which may seem surprising.

They have a lot of myths surrounding them one of which is that they are aggressive and will attack people.  While it is true bears will defend their territory from any potential encroachment, they don't actively seek out people to attack as a method of predation.  Due to this myth in particular, bears are feared and sometimes hunted because of this.

Man and bear have cohabitatated for thousands of years if not longer.  Unfortunately, humans have been responsible for the exploitation and culling of these magnificent beasts around the world.  6 species of bear are listed as endangered and even the most populous species, the brown bear, is considered vulnerable.

Again, now that I'm done rambling, here are some photos for you to enjoy.

While they are quadrapeds, bears are able to sit as humans. Now where is my steak?

 

"She just fell asleep and you had better not wake her up!"

The bear calvary:  Yes, you are screwed.

For more info on our ursine friends you can check out the Bear Wiki and Bear Facts