Black Bear
Medium Beast, unaligned
100 XP
Special Abilities
Keen Smell
The bear has advantage on Wisdom (Perception) checks that rely on smell.
Actions
Multiattack
The bear makes two attacks: one with its bite and one with its claws.
Bite
Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) piercing damage.
Claws
Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 7 (2d4 + 2) slashing damage.
Quick Reference
Running This Encounter
Black bears are territorial and aggressive when surprised or protecting cubs. Have the bear use its environment for cover and ambush tactics, emerging from dense forest or attacking from a food source. The bear can be reasoned with or frightened away if given an escape route, making it suitable for non-lethal encounters. Consider having cubs nearby to increase the bear's aggression and create moral complexity.
Combat Tactics
The bear charges directly at threats using its Multiattack to claw and bite. It prioritizes the closest or most threatening opponent and fights to the death only if cornered or protecting young; otherwise it flees when reduced to half health.
Environment & Setting
Forests, woodlands, mountainous terrain, or areas near streams and berry patches. Ideal encounters occur in dense cover where the bear gains surprise or advantage.