The Sloth Bear is a nocturnal insectivorous bear species native to the Indian subcontinent. They have 2 subspecies, the Common Sloth Bear and the Sri Lankan Sloth Bear.

Scientific Name – Melursus ursinus

Classification – Melursus

Gender Names – Male – boar; Female – sow; Baby – cub

Collective Noun – Sleuth, sloth

Length/Size – 55 to 192 kg (176 to 423 lb)

Weight – 1.4–1.9 m (4.6–6.2 ft)

Life Expectancy – Average 20 years; up to 40 in captivity

Mating Season – Varies according to location

Gestation Period – 210 days

Special Features – Females have more fur between their shoulders

Social Structure – Considered solitary, although occasionally seen in groups

Geographical Distribution – Common sloth bear – India, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh; Sri Lankan sloth bear – Sri Lanka

Natural Habitat – Lower elevations and drier forests with rocky outcrops

World Population – 7000 – 10,000

Conservation Status –Vulnerable

Diet – Beetles, grubs, and other insects; also consume carrion during food shortage

Predators – Tigers, leopards, and other bears