The inaugural World Sloth Bear Day was celebrated on October 12, 2022, with the aim of promoting awareness and strengthening conservation efforts for this distinct bear species, primarily found in the Indian subcontinent. The initiative was proposed by Wildlife SOS India, a company engaged in sloth bear conservation and protection for over two decades. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)-Species Survival Commission (SSC) Sloth Bear Expert Team endorsed this proposal and declared it a global event.
About the Sloth Bear
Belonging to one of the eight bear species globally, the Sloth Bear is known for its unique dietary habits, primarily consuming termites and ants. Unlike other bear species, they are commonly seen carrying their cubs on their backs. The bears are also avid honey consumers, earning them the alternate name “honey bear”. Uncommonly among bears, Sloth Bears do not hibernate.
Characterised by agility, Sloth Bears are among the most formidable wild animals. Notably, they are identified as the least researched bear species. Their scientific nomenclature is Melursus Ursinus.
Habitat of Sloth Bears
Sloth Bears are predominantly found in the Indian subcontinent, with Nepal and a Sri Lankan subspecies being exceptions. India is home to an overwhelming majority, about 90%, of the global Sloth Bear population.
Conservation Status
The IUCN Red List classifies Sloth Bears as vulnerable. They are protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act (1972) and are listed in Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES).
Threats to Sloth Bears
The Kalandars, an ethnic group largely composed of underprivileged individuals, were known for a practice called ‘dancing bear.’ This involved capturing Sloth Bears and subjecting them to torture to make them dance. Current reports suggest a 40 to 50% decline in their population over the past thirty years due to habitat loss, fragmentation, poaching, and escalating human-bear conflict.
Conservation Efforts
Wildlife SOS Bear rescue centres play a primary role in rescuing Sloth Bears and reintroducing them into their natural habitats, providing necessary veterinary care. The organisation also collaborates with the Kalandar community, offering alternative livelihoods and educational access to discourage poaching.
By declaring World Sloth Bear Day, Wildlife SOS and the IUCN-SSC Sloth Bear Expert Team aspire to set a precedent for global conservation efforts of Sloth Bears and their habitats.
The importance of this conservation effort has also featured in previous UPSC Civil Services Examination Prelims questions. In 2012, candidates were asked to identify groups of animals classified as endangered species, further emphasizing the need for such initiatives.