Helarctos malayanus

Sun Bear

MammalBest Season: Jan–Dec

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Field Reports (12 months)

(c) Wich’yanan (Jay) Limparungpatthanakij, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC), uploaded by Wich’yanan (Jay) Limparungpatthanakij

About this species

The smallest bear species and among the rarest in India, the Sun Bear is confined to the dense forests of Northeast India. Its distinctive golden chest patch makes it unmistakable. Extremely shy and almost entirely nocturnal, camera trapping is the most reliable way to document its presence in Namdapha's lowland rainforests. Discover Sun Bears in Northeast India's rainforests. Rare mammal sighting guides and wildlife expeditions in Namdapha.

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Best locations for Sun Bear

Reserves and landscapes where our photographers reliably encounter this species, with links to place-specific guides.

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Namdapha National Park

Arunachal Pradesh, India

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Upcoming Trips Targeting Sun Bear

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When and Where to Photograph Sun Bear

Plan field days around Jan–Dec: light is often strongest at dawn and dusk, when many mammals and birds are most active. Work with a naturalist who knows local movement patterns — they will position you ethically while improving your odds of a encounter in Namdapha National Park.

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