Known as the Asiatic black bear and the white-chested bear, the moon bear is a relatively small bear found throughout Asia and has adapted to living in trees.

Unlike many other bear species, their body shape resembles prehistoric bears more than modern ones.

History:

• The moon bears are classified as omnivores, being primarily more carnivorous than most other bear species.
• They feed mainly on larvae, termites, seeds, and bees, but are also known to eat nuts, mushrooms, grasses, and fruits.
• They produce bear bile, which is sought after in many different Asian cultures.
• Moon bears have been heavily hunted and are now classified as vulnerable on the conservation status spectrum.

Scientific name: Ursus thibetanus