Do bears at lower, snow-free elevations still hibernate for the winter?
I spoke with wildlife biologist Dr. Brian Kertson of the state department of Fish and Wildlife. He says bears at lower elevations (generally under 2,500' or so) go into what's called 'torpor'...not full hibernation. They may 'wake up', especially if temperatures reach the mid 50's...or are disturbed. And Dr. Kertson says they may never 'sleep' if they live near neighborhoods where trash...food...is easily available.
