The spectacled bear is the last remaining bear species in South America, with rapidly dwindling numbers. This vulnerable species is found in Columbia, Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia, Venezuela, and Northern Argentina. This beautiful bear has characteristic whitish-to-yellowish marks that encircle the eyes to form "spectacles" that extend down the neck to the chest.
The endangered spectacled bear is one of the most adorable animals. It's also among the smallest bear species in the world. It has a length of 1.2m to 1.8m and stands up to 64cm at the shoulder. The bear's shaggy coat can vary from dark brown to black.
Fun Facts
– The spectacled bear has a gestation period of about eight months.
– Spectacled bears live up to 20 years in the world and about 36 years in captivity.
– The Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel in Peru has a rescue center for spectacled bears.
– Mining, pollution, and coca production are the bears' biggest habitat threats.
– The spectacled bear is an omnivore with a reputation for attacking livestock. As a result, hunters and ranchers often retaliate by killing them.
– Spectacled bears are strong and agile climbers. They are also good swimmers.
– These bear species have a poor sense of sight and hearing, and they hunt by the sense of smell.
– Bears are usually quiet, but sometimes, they growl when feeding, fighting off another bear or human, and competing for a mate.
– The spectacled bear is generally active during the day; it's shy and elusive, avoiding human contact.
This is the cutest bear I have ever seen. Sad like so many animal species they are losing ground to humans.