Although the sloth bears’ shaggy appearance, protruding jaws, lengthy claws, and awkward gait may make them appear unappealing, they possess unique ecological features that make them a valuable species of the ecosystems in which they live. However, when it comes to research and conservation, sloth bears are overshadowed by more charismatic species such as tigers and one-horned rhinoceros, which are sympatric with sloth bears. In Nepal, less than 250 adult sloth bears are thought to be living, which is fewer than that of tigers and rhinoceroses, and only about 17% of their potential habitat is currently protected. This highlights that it is now high time we should start caring about this nationally endangered species of Nepal.
The Sloth Bear Project, Nepal, (formerly known as “Sloth Bear Research and Conservation Project East Nepal”) was formed in 2020 by keeping in mind the need for research and conservation work on Nepal’s lesser-known sloth bears. This initiative intends to identify important sloth bear populations in the country, especially those that exist outside protected areas, obtain data on these populations from both the ecological and human dimensions, and carry out community-focused education and conservation works. The project’s current focus area is the Trijuga forest in southeast Nepal, where we are examining the patterns and factors that influence how sloth bears use their habitat and how they interact with people and other sympatric mammals over time and space. Together with research, we are carrying out community and school-level education programs, and building the capacity of the local communities in wildlife research and monitoring focusing on sloth bears.
Financially supported by:
