The Smallest Bear in the Forest

The sun bear is the smallest bear species, living in tropical forests across Southeast Asia. Males are larger than females by roughly 10-20%.

This stocky animal stands nearly 70 cm at the shoulder and weighs 25 to 65 kg. The fur is short and jet black.

Sun bears sleep in trees 2 to 7 m above the ground. Their soles are fur-less.

The diet includes ants, bees, honey, fruits, and seeds. Termites never installed a proper deadbolt.

The generic name Helarctos comes from Greek words meaning sun and bear. Thomas Horsfield proposed it in 1825.

Sun bear mimics facial expressions with great precision.

Litters comprise one or two cubs that stay with their mother for around three years. Cubs remain dependent.

Sun bears do not hibernate because food is available year-round. They remain active through every season. No winter break.