Which bear species is known for its long, shaggy coat?

The sloth bear is the bear species known for its long, shaggy coat.

Its black fur is unusually long and unkempt, especially around the neck and shoulders, where it forms a mane. Unlike many mammals in warm climates, sloth bears lack a dense undercoat; this helps them stay cooler while the shaggy outer hair offers some protection from insects.

The coat is only one of several features that identify a sloth bear. It commonly has a pale V- or Y-shaped chest mark, a light-colored muzzle, and long, curved claws. Its loose lips and missing upper incisors help it suck termites and ants from nests, making insects an important part of its diet.

Despite its name, the sloth bear is not related to tree sloths. English settlers gave it the name because of its shaggy appearance and long claws. It lives mainly in India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka, where habitat loss and conflict with people remain major conservation concerns.