Malayan Sun Bear
[Helarctos malayanus euryspilus]
The Malayan Sun Bear is referred by local people as the "dog bear." The Malayan Sun Bears weight can range from 60 to 145 pounds, with males being slightly larger. They are short haired with deep black or brown-black fur with a horseshoe shaped marking on a chest of pale orange yellow.They have a curious gait, in that all the legs are turned inward while walking. It is the smallest of the bears, and one of the two species found south of the equator (the other is the spectacled bear of South America).
The sun bear is active at night, usually sleeping and sunbathing by day in a tree, 2 to 7 meters above the ground. Branches are broken and bent to form a nest and lookout post. Skillful climbers, they depend on their ability to get at their food. They are cautious, wary, and intelligent. Sometimes they cause a lot of damage to coconut, palm, and cocoa plantations. Usually shy and retiring, they do not hibernate.
Sun bears are listed on Appendix I of CITES. Habitat loss is their main threat to survival, as well as the pet trade, poaching for food, fur and the Asian medicinal trade.
Location: Bear & Tiger Exhibits