Cave Bear Fossils

Fossil cave bears, also known as Ursus spelaeus, were a species of bear that lived in Europe and Asia during the Pleistocene epoch, from about 1.2 million years ago to 24,000 years ago. They are named for their frequent occurrence in caves, where many fossils have been found. Cave bears were similar in size to modern brown bears, but they had several unique features, including a more robust build and longer limbs. They were herbivores, primarily feeding on plants and fruits. Fossil cave bears are important to paleontologists because they provide insights into ancient bear behavior, ecology, and evolutionary history. Their fossils have been found in large numbers in caves, often in association with other Ice Age mammals, and have helped scientists reconstruct past environments and ecosystems.