Sun Bear

The sun bear (Helarctos malayanus) is a bear found in tropical forest habitats of Southeast Asia. It is classified as Vulnerable by IUCN as the large-scale deforestation that has occurred throughout Southeast Asia over the past three decades has dramatically reduced suitable habitat for the sun bear. The global population is thought to have declined by more than 30% over the past three bear generations.

The sun bear is recognized as the smallest of the bear species. Its head-and-body length is between 100cm and 140cm and the bear’s height is almost 70cm. The weight of adults varies greatly, from anywhere between 25 to 65kg. Alongside being the smallest of bears, the sun bear also leads the most arboreal lifestyle amongst the bear species. They are very great climbers, and like to sunbathe or even sleep 2 to 7 metres above ground in trees.

Learning Objectives:

1. Learn how to recognize a sun bear from a regular bear!

2.Honey Bear = Sun Bear