Split parturition in a black bear

A 3-year-old black bear (Ursus americanus) captured following initiation of pregnancy was held in captivity from August 1990 through April 1991. Ultrasonic imaging in January 1991 indicated the presence of 3 fetuses. A single fetus was born dead on 12-13 January 1991, and a seat recovered on 10 January 1991 yielded 8 fetal bear claws that were smaller than those of the newborn fetus. It was concluded that a split parturition had occurred in this bear, an event which occurs rarely in any mammal species.