Malayan Sun Bear

The smallest bear in the world, being about half the size of the American black bear. Adults stand 2 1/4 feet tall and are 3 1/2 to 4 1/2 feet long. Adult males weigh between 63 and 143 pounds. Females are slightly smaller. Sun bears have a solid sleek body, short tail, small rounded ears and plantigrade feet (both heel and toe make contact with the ground when walking in a manner similar to humans). They have short bow-legs and sharp sickle-like claws. Sun bears have no hair on the soles of their feet, which assists them in getting a better grip when they climb trees. The sun bear is covered by very short, dense, black fur which is very efficient at repelling moisture. Most of these bears have a large yellowish-white or orange U-shaped blaze on their chest. The feet are sometimes grayish in color.