Dense lowland forests and shrubland of South and Southeast Asia. About me
I’m the second-rarest bear species, after the Giant Panda. I’m also the smallest of the bear family, but I’m the only one who can cradle my cub while walking on my hind legs. Take that big bears! I’m not a picky eater, I’ll pretty much chomp on anything, from lizards to little birds to insects, like termites and ants, to fruit and honey (Winnie the Pooh knows what’s up on that last tasty treat).
I’m shy though, I don’t like attention, even when I’m hunting I get a bit timid. I need a lot of forest room with dense vegetation, which makes me vulnerable to habitat destruction brought about by humans. But if I get room to roam, I can live up to 25 years!
Fast Facts: Did you know?
My name comes from the bib-shaped golden, or white, patch on my chest, which, legend says, represents the rising sun. Too bad I’m actually nocturnal and barely ever see the sun!
I’m the only bear native to South and Southeast Asia: Bear king of the forest!
We’re basically the “gardeners of the rainforests.” We disperse seeds (with our poop), do a little landscaping, here and there, by digging for bees, worms, and termites. You’re welcome, forest.