Fact Check: "Bear weighed 110 pounds at just two years old!"
What We Know
The claim that a bear weighed 110 pounds at just two years old is supported by a recent incident involving a black bear in Michigan. According to a report, wildlife experts managed to trap a black bear that had been living with a plastic lid stuck around its neck for two years. This bear was documented to weigh 110 pounds at the time it was rescued (NBC News).
In general, the weight of black bears can vary significantly based on age, sex, and environmental factors. Typically, a yearling bear (1-2 years old) can weigh between 80 to 100 pounds, which aligns with the reported weight of the Michigan bear. However, it is noted that some yearling bears can weigh more, depending on their habitat and food availability (Virginia DWR).
Analysis
The evidence supporting the claim comes from a specific case of a bear in Michigan that weighed 110 pounds at two years old. This particular bear had survived with a lid around its neck, which likely affected its ability to feed optimally. Despite this, it managed to reach a weight that is on the higher end of the expected range for a bear of that age.
However, the claim is somewhat anecdotal and does not represent the average weight of all bears at that age. According to wildlife experts, a typical yearling bear usually weighs between 80 to 100 pounds, with 110 pounds being on the higher side but not impossible (Virginia DWR). The variability in bear weights can be attributed to factors such as genetics, diet, and habitat quality.
The source of the claim, while credible, is based on a single instance rather than a comprehensive study of bear weights across different populations. Therefore, while it is possible for a bear to weigh 110 pounds at two years old, it is not the norm.
Conclusion
The claim that a bear weighed 110 pounds at just two years old is Partially True. While there is a documented case of a bear reaching this weight, it is important to note that this is not typical for all bears of that age. Most yearling bears weigh between 80 to 100 pounds, making the 110-pound weight an exception rather than the rule. Thus, while the claim is accurate in this specific instance, it does not reflect the average weight for all two-year-old bears.
