Scientific Name: Helarctos malayanus
Height: 120-150 cm (total length)
Lifespan: up to 30 years (in captivity)
Gestation period: 90-174 days
Hibernation period: Sun Bears do not hibernate
Mass: 27-80 kg (males are 10-20% heavier than females)
Sun bears can be found in tropical forests in Southeast Asia. As a result of deforestation in the area, the populations of the bears has significantly decreased by over 30% in the last 3 bear generations.
Sun bears are recognised by their short black fur, small round ears, bowed front legs and cream coloured curved claws. They are particularly aggressive when surprised in the wild. This bear is often referred to as the “honey bear” due to its insatiable appetite for honeycombs and honey. They are the smallest of all bears.
Distribution
Sun bears are found in Southeast Asia, particularly in northeastern India, Myanmar, Bangladesh, Malaysia, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia and on the islands of Sumatra and Borneo in Indonesia.
Status
IUCN Status: Vulnerable due to deforestation, illegal poaching and the Asian bile trades.