Sun Bear

The Sun Bear of Thailand is also known as the "honey bear", referring to its great appetite for honeycombs and honey. They are omnivorous, feeding mainly on termites, ants, insect larvae and a wide variety of fruits. The sun bear (Helarctos malayanus) is the smallest of the bear species and is native to the tropical forests of Southeast Asia, including Thailand. Sun bears are easily identified by the distinctive golden or yellow patch of fur on their chest. These bears are omnivores and have a varied diet that includes fruits, insects, honey and small animals. In Thailand, sun bears are threatened by deforestation and poaching, as their fur and body parts are used in traditional medicine. Therefore, it is important to protect their habitats and to educate people about their ecological importance. Conservation efforts are being made to help ensure that sun bear populations can thrive in Thailand.