Inferring bone attribution to species through micro-Computed Tomography: A comparison of third metapodials from Homo sapiensand Ursus americanus

•A critical knowledge gap exists regarding quantitative bear bone microarchitectural data.•Ca.N is significantly different between black bear and human metacarpals/pooled metapodials.•Osteon banding and resorption spaces are more prevalent in bear metapodials.•3D analysis of bear cortical bone provides an accurate means to infer species origin.•3D data reveal the usefulness of desktop µCT as a diverse tool for anthropologists.