The sloth bear (Melursus ursinus), a shaggy-coated, insect-eating bear native to the Indian sub-continent, is one of the most distinctive members of the bear family. Unlike its larger northern cousins, the sloth bear is built for digging and climbing, with long curved claws, a mobile snout, and an exceptionally long tongue for sucking up termites and honey. Its unusual adaptations, nocturnal habits, and strong maternal instincts make it a fascinating species to observe.
Diet
In the wild, sloth bears feed primarily on termites and ants, which they extract from hardened mounds using their powerful claws and vacuum-like lips. It is believed that their feet are turned inward to increase digging efficiency. Their lower incisors are missing by design, allowing them to create a perfect seal for suction feeding. Due to their diet, they are also thought to have smaller premolars and molars compared to those of other bears, but have large canines in exchange for defense.
During the fruiting season, they feed on mangoes, figs, and even flowers. Also known to have sweet teeth, sloth bears have been observed to forage for honey by knocking down honeycombs and relishing the sweet treat from forest floors.
Occasionally, especially during food shortages, sloth bears will eat small mammals, carrion, and even raid farms for crops.
Habitat
Sloth bears live across the forests and grasslands of India, Sri Lanka, and Nepal. Anciently, they lived in Bangladesh and Bhutan, but are presently considered locally extinct in the wild of these countries.
They prefer areas with abundant termite mounds and fruit-bearing trees, and are well adapted to both dry forests and tropical jungles. Unlike many bears, they don’t hibernate. Food in their warm habitat is available year-round.
Size & Weight
Sloth bears are medium-sized compared to other bear species, but are still powerful animals. Adults measure between 5 and 6 feet in length and can weigh anywhere from 150 to 310 pounds, depending on sex and region. Their long, dark fur, often with a pale “Y” or “V” shape on the chest, gives them their shaggy appearance.
Behaviour & Temperament
Sloth bears are mostly nocturnal and spend their nights foraging for insects or fruit. During the day, they rest in shaded areas or dens. Although typically shy, they can be defensive when startled, especially mothers with cubs. In the wild, they’ve been known to stand on their hind legs, roar, and swing their claws to appear larger when threatened.
Range in the Wild
Sloth bears are found throughout the Indian subcontinent. Their range covers dry forests, rocky hills, and grasslands, but it’s shrinking due to urban growth and habitat fragmentation. Populations are most stable inside national parks and wildlife sanctuaries where termite mounds and fruit trees remain plentiful.
Conservation Status
The sloth bear is listed as Vulnerable due to habitat loss, deforestation, and human-wildlife conflict. As human settlements expand, these bears sometimes wander into farms or villages searching for food, which can lead to dangerous encounters. In some regions, cubs are also captured for illegal pet trade or entertainment.
Through education and advocacy, Abilene Zoo helps raise awareness about the challenges facing Asian wildlife. By visiting and supporting zoos that participate in global conservation programs, guests directly contribute to protecting species like the sloth bear and their habitats.
Visit the Sloth Bear at Abilene Zoo
When you visit the Abilene Zoo, stop by our sloth bear habitat and talk to one of our educators about how we provide enrichment, nutrition, and veterinary care. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for these extraordinary animals, and for the work being done to protect them in the wild.
Fun Facts
Despite the name, sloth bears aren’t slow; they can run faster than a person when threatened.
Their claws can grow up to four inches long, perfect for tearing into termite mounds or tree trunks.
Cubs often ride on their mother’s back, gripping her long fur for safety during their first months of life.
They make a loud snuffling sound when feeding, as they vacuum up insects with their specialized lips.
Each bear’s chest marking is unique, just like a fingerprint!