A Look At Earth’s Most Mysterious Bear

Author Michael Bond impacted several generations with his iconic “Paddington Bear” series.

Featuring a spectacled bear from South America, a species known little outside of its indigenous range, the books and animated features have done more to raise the profile of the species than anything.

They are the only South American bear species and are named for the light pattern on their face, neck, and chest that in some individuals resembles spectacles or eyeglasses.

According to the Wildlife Conservation Network, little is known about this elusive species and while the mystery surrounding them may add to its mystique, it does little to further its conservation.

Lack of knowledge about these bears considerably compromises the conservation management for the species.This rare, charismatic animal is highly endangered, primarily due to habitat fragmentation that has caused them o lose access to critical feeding areas. Although they are generally found in humid, alpine cloud forests, Spectacled Bear Conservation (SBC) discovered a population of more than 65 bears in the low elevation dry forest, providing a unique opportunity to observe these bears in the wild.

SBC says this is a vulnerable species seriously threatened by habitat loss, habitat fragmentation, and human-wildlife conflict.

The lack of knowledge about these animals in the wild impacts our ability to make conservation decisions or plans. Spectacled bears are the only animal of their kind in South America with potentially as few as 2,500 mature individuals remaining.

I have reached out to some researchers to get some in-depth information on the species we will hopefully be able to post soon. Until then, enjoy this introduction to the beautiful, enigmatic, and endangered spectacled bear.

Chester Moore