Melursus

Melursus is a small genus of bears in the family Ursidae that contains a single living species, Melursus ursinus, commonly known as the sloth bear. It is distinguished from other bears by its shaggy coat, a distinctive light patch on the chest, a relatively long snout, and strong forelimbs with long claws.

Sloth bears are medium-sized, with a dark coat ranging from black to brown. Their chest patch is typically pale or cream-colored, and they have a long, slightly curved snout that aids in feeding. The forelimbs are powerful, and the claws are well adapted for digging and tearing into termite mounds and honey beehives.

The species' range spans parts of the Indian subcontinent, with habitats including dry deciduous forests, scrublands, and grasslands. They are often found in areas where termites are abundant and where beehives can be raided. Their diet is omnivorous, with termites forming a major portion, supplemented by fruits, honey, and small animals.

Behaviorally, sloth bears are generally solitary and are active mainly at night or during twilight. Reproduction occurs seasonally, with litters typically consisting of one to three cubs born after a gestation of several months; cubs remain with the mother for an extended period before becoming independent.

Conservation status, according to the IUCN, lists the sloth bear as vulnerable. Populations are declining due to habitat loss and fragmentation, human–bear conflict, and other anthropogenic pressures. They are protected within several national parks and reserves, and conservation efforts focus on habitat preservation and reducing conflict with people.