D&D Basic Monsters: Brown Bear

The Brown Bear (Ursus arctos) is a form of large bear, usually found in temperate and sub-arctic areas. In D&D terms, the Brown Bear has been with the game from the start, occupying a niche between the smaller Black Bear and some larger type of bear (usually the Cave Bear, Dire Bear or Polar Bear).

A true omnivore, the Brown Bear actually derives up to 90% of its dietary energy from vegetable matter. Further more, Brown Bears rarely attack humans, except if they are surprised, feel threatened or to defend their young.

A study from 2008 showed that pepper spray was in fact more effective than guns in averting bear attacks. Whether this makes a mace wielding cleric more adept at handling bears is uncertain....