Sun Bear (Helarctos malayanus)

Family: URSIDAE

Bears are large, powerfully built, omnivorous mammals with a short tail and good sense of smell, but poor sight and hearing. The one species found in Borneo is the smallest in the world and the Bornean subspecies is smaller than that on mainland Asia. Nevertheless, it is one of the few native mammals (as are elephants) potentially dangerous to man, owing to the unpredictability of its behaviour.

Measurements: HB 1125-1260, T 30-90, Wt 48-63kg (3 specimens).

Identification: Body entirely black, except for grey muzzle and a white or yellowish 'V' or 'C' shaped mark on the upper chest. Chest mark normally prominent but occasionally very faint. A reddish-coloured specimen lacking the chest mark has been found in south-eastern Sabah. Signs more often seen than bear itself: prominent claw marks gouged into a tree trunk where it has climbed the tree, or the remains of bee or termite nests ripped open in standing or fallen trees. Claw marks much more conspicous than the faint marks of other carnivores or monitor lizards. Occasionally, utters hoarse grunts or loud roars, which may be confused with those of the adult male orang-utan; rarely short barks like that of a muntjac, Munticus spp., or rhinoceros, Dicerorhinus sumatrensis.

Similar species: The binturong, Arctitis binturong, has a prominent long, bushy tail and is much smaller.

Ecology and Habitat: Active periodically during day and night time, on the ground and in tall trees. Builds nests of small branches in tall trees for sleeping, similar to those of the Orang-utan, but usually nearer the trunk and less well woven. Diet includes entire bees' nests, termites, small animals, fruits and the "heart" of coconut palms. Occurs in extensive areas of forests and occasionally enters gardens in remote areas.

Distribution: H.m. euryspilus. Recorded at low densities from many localities in the lowlands and hills.