Discover Why Bears Like Honey So Much

If you grew up reading or watching Winnie the Pooh, you may have learned a thing or two about bears. One of the biggest takeaways many remember about the beloved childhood character was his love of honey. Cuddly, animated bears aren’t the only ones. In the wild, many types of bears seek out the sweet treat. Let’s find out more about why bears consider honey a sweet snack!

Why Do Bears Like Honey So Much?

Bears like honey because it is high in glucose and fructose. Just like humans enjoy something sweet after their main meal, so do some bears. Most bears are omnivores, meaning they eat both plants and animals. Bears seek out the nutrients provided by the nectar in the wild. While they certainly enjoy it, these creatures are interested in eating more than just the honey. There are other nutritional draws to a beehive for bears.

How Do Bears Get Honey?

Once bears get to a beehive, they are interested in something other than the honey. They want to consume the whole beehive — larvae, bees, comb, and brood. Bears will use their dexterous paws and strong jaws to eat the whole hive. Their strong sense of smell helps them locate the hives. According to the North American Bear Center, bears like immature bees. They provide both fat and protein to their diet. The Science and Education Administration says that bears can pose severe damage to both hives and broods.

Is Honey Safe For Bears To Eat?

Honey is absolutely safe for them. While some might worry about the dangers of eating a beehive, bears are built for it. Their thick fur keeps them from getting stung by the bees as they consume both hives and honey. Too much honey cannot hurt a bear. That said, it cannot satisfy them either. As they prepare to hibernate bears can eat 15,000-20,000 calories. It would take a massive amount of honey to meet those needs.

Do Bears Get Stung By Bees?

Despite their natural defenses, bears do often get stung by bees. They are stung by bees while pursuing and eating hives. Like in humans, a bee sting can cause discomfort. Bears can also be allergic to bees, which adds danger to a sting. In many cases, bears will risk stings as they follow their taste buds.

Do All Bears Like Honey?

Polar bears are carnivores and do not have a desire for sweets. According to the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, grizzly bears and black bears are less likely to eat honey as they meet their nutritional needs elsewhere.