Details
Melursus ursinus
The sloth bear is a solitary bear of South Asian forests and grasslands. Nocturnal and strong-clawed, it searches for insects and fruit.
Map: Ecoregions 2017 © RESOLVE (CC BY 4.0) · Natural Earth (PD)
It uses dry forest, grassland, and scrub. Rocks and thickets provide resting cover, while termite-rich areas are important feeding sites.
Body length is about 140-190 cm and weight about 55-145 kg. Long black fur, a pale chest mark, protruding muzzle, and strong claws are distinctive.
Mostly nocturnal, it usually travels alone. It digs into soil and breaks rotten wood while searching for food.
It is omnivorous, eating termites, ants, fruit, and flowers. Flexible lips and tongue help it suck insects from nests.
Cubs depend on the mother for a long time and may ride on her back when young. The mother defends them strongly in secure cover.
Its status is listed as Vulnerable. Habitat loss and encounters with people are major concerns, making buffer management important.
