Observe and photograph a species in its natural habitat
Learn where and when to observe a species in the wild, how to recognize it in the field, and what habitats it lives in. Get photography tips adapted to its behavior and capture stunning images without disturbing the animal. For full details, open the complete profile in the WildlifePhotographer app.
Sloth bear
Scientific name: Melursus ursinus

IUCN Status: Vulnerable
Family: URSIDAE
Group: Mammals
Shyness: Suspicious
Safe distance: 30 m
Breeding season / Courtship: 01.06-31.08
Gestation: 6 à 7 mois
Births: 01.11-31.12
Habitat:
Tropical and subtropical forests, savannas, and mountain forests of India and Sri Lanka
Description:
The Sloth Bear, also known as the lip bear, is a large carnivorous mammal primarily found in the tropical and subtropical forests of India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Myanmar. It measures about 1.4 to 1.8 meters in length and weighs between 50 and 150 kg. What particularly distinguishes the Sloth Bear is its face, which has highly mobile lips and long fur around the mouth, giving it its name. Its coat is generally black with white markings on the chest and throat, forming a sort of crescent shape. The Sloth Bear is an omnivore, feeding on fruits, honey, insects, roots, and small animals. Although it is primarily terrestrial, it is also capable of climbing trees. Due to habitat loss and poaching, this species is currently listed as vulnerable.
Recommended lens:
>=200 mm
Photography tips:
Use a telephoto lens to photograph the sloth bear, which is often more active at night or at dusk. Look to capture its unique behaviors, such as foraging for food or moving through the forest. Be discreet and respect the safety distance, especially when they are rummaging for insects.
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