This animal is one of the smallest bears, with a length of 1.4 to 1.8m (4.6-6ft), a tail of 6-7 inches and a weight of 55-190kg (121-400lbs). It is found in South Asia: India, Sri Lanka, Nepal and Bhutan. The sloth bear is distinguished by its long and rough fur, especially around the ears, neck and muscles. The color varies from black to brown or reddish, and the muzzle is usually much lighter or even white. The large and powerful claws enable it to easily climb trees.

The Sloth Bear feeds on ants, termites, fruits, honey and it is known to be the only species of bear that eats ants and termites. It lives in tropical forests, savannas and grasslands and it’s largely nocturnal or crepuscular. The breeding season varies according to location, during June-July, and females give birth, usually to one or two cubs, which remain with their mother for 1.5 to 2.5 years. The sloth bear can live up to 30 years. The only natural threat of this bear is the tiger and possibly the leopard. The bear avoids areas where human disturbance is high and it is particularly vulnerable to loss of habitat because of its reliance on lowland areas, which are most readily used by people.