Karnataka has witnessed instances of human-sloth bear confrontations, raising concerns for both communities and wildlife enthusiasts.
About Sloth bear:
- Scientific Name:Â Melursus ursinus
- Sloth bears are one of the eight bear speciesfound across the world.
- They are myrmecophagous, meaning, they find bugs and termites to be their most sought-after meal.
- Habitat: They live in a variety of dry and moist forestsand in some tall grasslands, where boulders, scattered shrubs and trees provide shelter.
- Appearance:Â They have long, shaggy dark brown or black fur and curved claws, which are the longest out of any of the bear species.
- Conservation Status
- IUCN:Â Vulnerable
- Wildlife Protection Act, 1972:Â Schedule 1
- Key to mitigate human-sloth bear confrontations:Â Enhancing habitat connectivity, minimising human-wildlife interaction zones, and implementing responsible waste management practices.
- Sloth Bear Sanctuaries in India:Â Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary (Karnataka), Jessore Sloth Bear Sanctuary (Gujarat).