Are sloth bears really as slow as sloths?

You might think their name comes from being slow like a sloth… but actually, that's not the case! Sloth bears are capable climbers using their long claws and can move quickly when needed.

So why are they called "sloth bears"? It's said that the name comes from their resemblance to sloths when they use their long snouts to suck up ants and termites.

Do they only eat ants and termites?

Ants and termites are the sloth bear's favorite foods. However, that's not all! They also eat fruits, honey, and flowers. Being omnivores, they have the flexibility to eat a variety of things depending on their environment.

How do they eat ants and termites?

Sloth bears have a special body structure for eating ants and termites. They use their long snouts and the gap between their lips to create powerful suction, vacuuming up anthills in an instant!

(Video: A sloth bear sucking up an anthill)

[Quiz!] How do sloth bear cubs travel?

Sloth bear cubs cling to their mothers' backs to travel. Even when their mothers climb trees, the cubs hold on tight and don't let go. It's as if they're wearing their mothers' fur coats!

[Quiz!] When are sloth bears most active?

Sloth bears are nocturnal. They rest in the shade of trees or in caves during the day and become active at night. There's something mystical about them as they wander through the darkness searching for anthills.

[Quiz!] Are sloth bears endangered?

Sadly, sloth bears are endangered. Deforestation, habitat destruction, and poaching are causing their numbers to decline. To protect sloth bears, we need to change our awareness and actively participate in conservation efforts.