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Which bear species is the smallest?

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Jasper National Park: grizzly bear — bear Grizzly bear in Jasper National Park, western Alberta, Canada.

The sun bear (Helarctos malayanus) is the smallest bear species in the world. Found in the forests of Southeast Asia, this mammal typically weighs between 27 and 65 kg (59 to 143 pounds) and reaches a length of 1 to 1.2 metres (3.3 to 4 feet).1

Characterized by its short, coarse black fur and a distinctive orange-yellow chest crescent, the sun bear is an omnivorous, tree-climbing animal that uses its long, curved claws to forage for insect nests, fruit, and honey. Due to significant threats from habitat loss and hunting, the International Union for Conservation of Nature classifies the sun bear as a vulnerable species. Protecting these animals from illegal trade and environmental destruction is an essential ethical responsibility to ensure the survival of this unique species.12