INTRODUCTION:

The black bear (Ursus americanus ) is the largest carnivore in Mexico and the only ursid present today. Moreover, it is considered a priority species for conservation by the Mexican government (NOM-059-ECOL-2010).

METHODOLOGY:

We conducted a systematic sampling using camera-traps from april 2013 through april 2014 in El Cielo Biosphere Reserve, Tamaulipas, México. A total of 44 cameras were placed on 22 double stations. Total sampling effort was calculated by multiplying total number of stations by total days of sampling. During sampling cameras were checked at least one time per month. Cameras were programmed to record video and printing time and date on them.

RESULTS:

We had a total sampling effort of 8,580 trap/days, and 660 trap/days per month, resulting in 2,701 videos of large and medium size mammals common in the region, as well as some bird species. Of these videos, eight corresponded to black bear (U. a. eremicus) and were recorded in tropical forest at 372 m, in the municipality of Gomez Farias in El Cielo Biosphere Reserve. Based on size, body conformation, and age, we identified five different individuals: A) one adult male, B) one adult female, C) two cubs, and D) one juvenile male.

DISCUSION:

This work represents the first records of black bears in tropical forests and at low altitude below 600 m in the region. We suggest that its presence in this site may be associated to mango (Mangifera spp.) and corn (Zea mays) crop, which area available during harvest time, from July to September in the study site. Due to this probable association, black bear sightings and conflicts may increase in these low tropical sites in the region.