The sun bear (Helarctos malayanus) is a bear species in the family Ursidae found in the tropical forests of Southeast Asia. It is the only species in the genus Helarctos[5] and the smallest bear species, standing nearly 70 cm (28 in) at the shoulder and weighing 25–65 kg (55–143 lb).

The Malayan sun bear (Helarctos malayanus malayanus) is a subspecies of sun bear, occurring in southeast Asia. [1] In 2025, Malayan sun bear along with the Bornean sun bear (Helarctos malayanus euryspilus), have been selected to be new …

The Malayan Sun bear, or the Sun bear is the smallest member of the bear family. They are easily distinguishable by their bib-shaped golden or white patch on their chest. These adorable bears are the least studied out of all 8 existing bear species.

Sun bears, the smallest of all bear species, are remarkably strong for their size, featuring large claws, a powerful bite, and a tongue up to 46 cm long for extracting food. Their sleek black coat, distinctive chest patch, and wide skull give them a unique appearance, while their individual chest markings remain unchanged throughout their lives.

Mar 12, 2025 · Sun bear, the smallest bear in the world, found in Southeast Asian forests. It weighs only 27–65 kg (59–143 pounds) and is 1–1.2 meters (3.3–4 feet) long with a 5-cm (2-inch) tail. Its curved claws are used for digging in its search for insect nests. It also eats fruit, honey, and small vertebrates.

Mar 28, 2018 · The sun bear is the world’s smallest bear species. It is found in the tropical forests of Southeast Asia. The sun bear’s conservation status is ‘Vulnerable’ and it is threatened both by habitat loss and by hunting. Find out more about this species ... Sun Bear Facts At A Glance. Other Name(s): Malayan sun bear, Malay bear, honey bear ...

May 27, 2024 · The Sun Bear is the smallest species of bear in the world and it is also one of the most unique, being the only member of its family that has not only adapted to living in the jungle but also leads an exclusively tree-dwelling life.

Sun bears are called basindo nan tenggil in the Malay language which translates to "he who likes to sit high". This is because Sun bears are arboreal and spend most of their time high up in the trees.

Malayan sun bears are are increasingly rare residents of tropical rainforests in southern China, Burma, Malaysia, Sumatra, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, and Borneo. Sun bears are skillful climbers, aided by long sickle-shaped claws on all four feet.

The Malayan Sun Bear, also known as the Honey Bear, is the smallest member of the bear family. It gets its name from the characteristic golden or white patch on its chest, which folklore says represents the rising sun. This bear is native to the tropical rainforests of Southeast Asia.