Asian Black Bearツキノワグマ

Species Data

Classification

Carnivora / Ursidae Source

Distribution

The Asian black bear ranges from southeastern Iran through the Himalayas across mainland Southeast Asia, China, Korea, Taiwan, and Japan's Honshu and Shikoku islands. Source

Did You Know?

• Asian black bears are exceptional climbers that reportedly spend nearly half their lives in trees, often leaving behind 'bear nests' of broken branches where they have sat and fed. Source
• Asian black bears are notably more aggressive toward humans than related species; a hospital in Srinagar reportedly received dozens of attack victims annually around the turn of the 20th century. Source
• In traditional Japanese hunting culture, killing an all-black bear lacking the distinctive white chest crescent was believed to anger mountain spirits, and some hunters permanently gave up hunting after doing so. Source

FAQ

Why is the Asian black bear called the moon bear?

It gets the nickname from the pale, crescent-moon-shaped patch of fur on its chest, which contrasts with its otherwise black coat. Source

Why is the Asian black bear considered Vulnerable?

Habitat loss from deforestation, poaching for gall bladders and other body parts used in traditional medicine, and conflict with humans over livestock and crops have all driven population declines. Source

Are Asian black bears good climbers?

Yes — they are among the most arboreal of the world's bears and reportedly spend close to half their lives in trees. Source