An American black bear investigates a scent lure at a hair-snare station

In Navajo culture, the American black bear holds deep significance, symbolizing strength, protection, and a sacred connection to nature and the spiritual world. Little is known about bear ecology in the area or how they interact with humans. USGS researchers at the Arizona Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, on the campus of Arizona State University, are assisting the Navajo Nation in developing guidelines that may help to manage human-bear interactions effectively.