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Bears in Ireland often slept through the cold winter in caves, hollows, burrows or sheltered cliffsides, and several are known to have died during hibernation, with their bones being found by modern archaeologists. [2] The most famous fossils were discovered in Poll na mBéar (literally "bear's hole") in County Leitrim, and Aillwee Cave, County ...
If the winter is mild enough, they may wake up and forage for food. Females also give birth in February and nurture their cubs until the snow melts. [90] During winter, American black bears consume 25–40% of their body weight. [91] The footpads peel off while they sleep, making room for new tissue.
Hibernation may last days, weeks, or months—depending on the species, ambient temperature, time of year, and the individual's body-condition. Before entering hibernation, animals need to store enough energy to last through the duration of their dormant period, possibly as long as an entire winter.
Overall, the Climate Prediction Center, in its most recent winter forecast, said that despite the current eastern chill, a milder-than-average winter was still likely for the eastern and southern U.S.
Grizzly bears also do not defecate or urinate throughout the entire hibernation period. The male grizzly bear's hibernation ends in early to mid-March, while females emerge in April or early May. [53] In preparation for winter, bears can gain approximately 180 kg (400 lb), during a period of hyperphagia, before going into hibernation. [54]
Editor's note: Follow USA TODAY's Wednesday coverage of the Thanksgiving 2024 weather forecast and travel updates. Bundle up and hunker down: It's about to get cold − very cold.
Bears use shelters, such as caves and logs, as their dens; most species occupy their dens during the winter for a long period of hibernation, up to 100 days. Bears have been hunted since prehistoric times for their meat and fur; they have also been used for bear-baiting and other forms of entertainment, such as being made to dance.
How much of the US is in a drought? Overall, 38.9% of the contiguous U.S. is in drought, which is down about 13% since early November, according to the most recent U.S. Drought Monitor, out ...