Why are spirit bears called bears?

Spirit bears, also known as Kermode bears, are called bears because they are a subspecies of the American black bear (Ursus americanus).

While their white fur makes them stand out, they share the same biological classification, physical characteristics, and behaviors as their black-furred counterparts. The "spirit" in their name refers to their unique white coat, which has been attributed to a spiritual significance by some Indigenous cultures.

Here's a breakdown:

* Scientific Classification: Both black bears and spirit bears belong to the same species (Ursus americanus).

* Genetics: The white fur in spirit bears is caused by a recessive gene, meaning they need to inherit the gene from both parents. This is why they are relatively rare.

* Physical Characteristics: Spirit bears and black bears are otherwise identical in terms of size, shape, and behavior.

* Cultural Significance: The white fur has held special significance in the cultures of Indigenous peoples in the region, often associated with spiritual power and purity.

So, while their coat color is unique, spirit bears are still bears in every other way, hence their name.