Friday, June 23, 2006
Sun Bear
Arboreal, nocturnal. Sleep and sun bathe in tree nests formed of bent branches (often as high as 23 feet off the ground). Huge claws aid in climbing and manipulating food items and are probably used in defense as well. Unusually long tongue is used in slurping up insects. Bare soles also aid climbing.
Also called “honey bear”. Malayan name, basindo nan tenggil, means “he who likes to sit high”. The pigeon-toed gait signals that this animal is arboreal. Chest markings are variable and may even be completely lacking, but the name “sun bear” may be due to the crescent shape usually present, likened to a rising or setting sun. If caught by large predator, can turn in its loose skin and bite attacker.
Also called “honey bear”. Malayan name, basindo nan tenggil, means “he who likes to sit high”. The pigeon-toed gait signals that this animal is arboreal. Chest markings are variable and may even be completely lacking, but the name “sun bear” may be due to the crescent shape usually present, likened to a rising or setting sun. If caught by large predator, can turn in its loose skin and bite attacker.
# posted by saffron @ 1:21 AM 
