River otters, Rocky Mountain elk, mule deer, Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep, beavers, Bald Eagles, Magpies, and Brown Trout in the Flaming Gorge National Recreation area.
Black bear actually have a wide range in color from light blonde to cinnamon to dark brown to black. The color variation differs across the country, but in this area of the Rockies only 50% are black. They are excellent swimmers and tree climbers, possessing great strength for their size. These bears are omnivorous eating a diet of mostly vegetation & insects, but are often spotted feeding on road kill.
They are also quite dexterous, able to open a jar or a latch. Black bears are a well-used subject in folklore from native American mythology to fairly tales. it was a battered, singed survivor of a forest fire that became the mascot of the US Forest Service - Smokey Bear.
Season for Viewing Active spring, summer and fall - sleep in dens during winter months.
Best Areas to View Occasionally spotted along the National Scenic Byway in the mountainous sections, especially in spring. Beware! Spotting a bear at close distance may not be a good thing!
