Types Of Bear Species Found In India

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1 May 2025

India's diverse wildlife includes four bear species which inhabit various regions, from the Himalayas to central and southern forests

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1. Asiatic Black Bear (Ursus thibetanus): Also known as the Himalayan black bear or moon bear, found in the Himalayas, northeastern India, and parts of central India

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They are recognisable by a white or cream-coloured chest patch. They are listed as vulnerable due to habitat loss and hunting pressure

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2. Sloth Bear (Melursus ursinus): Found in central and southern India, particularly in forested regions, with a shaggy black coat and distinctive cream-coloured snout 

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They're known for their unique feeding behavior, digging for termites and ants

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3. Himalayan Brown Bear (Ursus arctos isabellinus): Inhabits the Himalayan region, specifically in Ladakh, with thick fur protecting them from harsh winters

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They're the largest bear species in India, weighing up to 550 kg

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 4. Malayan Sun Bear (Helarctos malayanus): Rare and smallest bear species in India, found in northeastern states. They weigh around 30-80 kg 

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These bear species face threats like habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflicts, emphasising the need for conservation efforts

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