Himalayan Brown Bear
Location: Bani Wildlife Sanctuary
Image: Ajaz Ansari (IME)
Himalayan Brown Bear
Location: Bani Wildlife Sanctuary
Image: Ajaz Ansari (IME)
The Himalayan Brown Bear is a subspecies of the brown bear found in the mountain ranges of the Himalayas, including parts of India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet. It primarily inhabits alpine meadows, forests, and rugged, remote areas at altitudes ranging from 3,000 to 5,000 meters above sea level.
This bear is relatively smaller than other brown bear subspecies, with an average weight of 100–200 kg for males and slightly less for females. It has a thick, dense coat, typically brown with a lighter, golden or sandy hue on its back and shoulders, which helps it blend into its mountainous environment. Its large paws are well-adapted to its cold habitat and help it traverse snow and rocky terrain.
The Himalayan Brown Bear is omnivorous, solitary and primarily nocturnal, although they can be active at any time of day, especially in the spring and summer when they are preparing for winter hibernation.
IUCN Status: Endangered
IWLPA: Schedule I
CITES: Appendix II