Published Nov 10, 2026 3:13 PM EST Yes, bears are big. Depending on the time of year and sex, the average black bear (Ursus americanus) weighs between 90 to 500 pounds. On average brown bears (Ursus arctos) can weigh between 600 to 900 pounds. However, one female black bear named Volverine is a true fat bear queen this year. The U.S. Forest Service team at Tongass National Forest in southeastern Alaska have awarded her with the 2026 Big & Beautiful Award for her heft.