The Biomechanics of Ursine Predation: Investigating the Force Generation and Mechanical Properties of Bear Claws and Teeth in Predatory Behavior

Authors

Katie Dooley, Brigham Young University - ProvoFollow
Megan Doxey, Brigham Young University - Provo
Josh Jewell, Brigham Young University - Provo
Tom Smith, Brigham Young University - ProvoFollow

Files

Keywords

Ursine strength, bite forces, bear claws, bear canines

Abstract

• Studied over 2,200 human-bear conflicts in North America and witnessed the shear force that bears can exert to access food and eliminate any threats.
• Polar bears at the Hogle Zoo in Salt Lake City punctured and bent high density polyurethane (HDPE) objects when playing with them.
• This prompted research into the force it takes bears to puncture objects with their canines and claws.

BYU ScholarsArchive Citation

Dooley, Katie; Doxey, Megan; Jewell, Josh; and Smith, Tom, "The Biomechanics of Ursine Predation: Investigating the Force Generation and Mechanical Properties of Bear Claws and Teeth in Predatory Behavior" (2024). Library/Life Sciences Undergraduate Poster Competition 2024. 72.
https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/library_studentposters_2024/72

Document Type

Poster

Publication Date

2024-03-21

Language

English

College

Life Sciences

Department

Plant and Wildlife Sciences

University Standing at Time of Publication

Senior

Copyright Use Information

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