Species profile
About this species
The sloth bear is a medium-sized bear native to the Indian subcontinent, recognised by its shaggy black fur, pale muzzle & distinctive white chest marking. It has a specialised diet focused heavily on insects, particularly termites & ants, using its long curved claws & mobile lips to excavate mounds & hoover up prey. Despite its somewhat clumsy appearance, the sloth bear is an agile climber & can be highly aggressive when threatened.
Sloth bears inhabit tropical & subtropical dry forests, grasslands & scrublands across India, Sri Lanka & Nepal, favouring areas with rocky outcrops, dense vegetation & an abundance of termite mounds.
Where to photograph
Where our trips feature this species
You can photograph Sloth Bear with us in India.
These departures are part of our Asia programme.
In the field, Pui Hang Miles helps guests make the most of these encounters.
Field notes
Photography notes
Early morning & late afternoon during the fruiting season from April to June, or during cooler winter months between November & February when bears are more active during daylight hours.
Photograph sloth bears during the early morning hours when they are most active & light is soft, using a fast shutter speed of at least 1/500s to freeze their distinctive shaggy fur in motion. A telephoto lens of 400mm or longer is strongly recommended as these bears can be unpredictable & dangerous at close range. Visit during the fruiting season between April & June when bears congregate around fruit trees, offering excellent opportunities for natural behavioural shots.
Available holidays
Trips featuring Sloth Bear
The holidays below are pulled from the same species relationship, so the guide stays tied to live departures rather than becoming a static article.