Which bear species is also called the moon bear?

The Asiatic black bear is also called the moon bear. Its scientific name is Ursus thibetanus, and the nickname refers to the bear’s distinctive pale chest marking, which often forms a crescent or V-like shape.

This medium-sized bear is native to Asia, ranging from parts of Iran, Pakistan and the Himalayas across mainland Southeast Asia, China, Korea, Russia and Japan. It is strongly adapted for climbing, with powerful forelimbs and curved claws. Although it eats mostly plant material, it is an opportunistic omnivore and may consume insects, small animals, carrion and livestock.

“Moon bear” should not be confused with the sun bear, another Asian species and the smallest living bear. Nor is the Asiatic black bear the same as the American black bear, which lives in North America. The Asiatic species is listed as Vulnerable, with deforestation, poaching and conflict with people among its major threats.