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Helarctos malayanus

Sun Bear

MammalBest Season: Jan–Dec

Best locations

1

Expert creators

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Field Reports (12 months)

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Sun Bear (Helarctos malayanus) — wildlife photography in India

(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.

Quick facts

Scientific name
Helarctos malayanus
Category / family
Mammal · —
Best months to photograph
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Difficulty to spot
Moderate
Best locations
Namdapha National Park

Field Reports

0 total reports

No field reports yet for this species.

Best locations for Sun Bear

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

Arunachal PradeshNamdapha National Park
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When and Where to Photograph Sun Bear

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.

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.

Related species

  • Indian Rhinoceros
  • Nilgiri Tahr
  • Gaur
  • Sloth Bear
  • Assam Macaque
  • Western Hoolock Gibbon
  • Indian Fox
  • Golden Jackal
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