The sun bear gets its name from its characteristic orange to cream-coloured chest patch.
The fur is generally short and jet black, but can vary from grey to red. It is stockily built, with large paws, strongly curved claws, small, rounded ears and a short snout. It is the smallest bear species, standing nearly 70 cm (28 in) at the shoulder and weighing 25–65 kg (55–143 lb).
The sun bear ( Helarctos malayanus) is a species in the family Ursidae (the only species in the genus Helarctos) occurring in the tropical forests of Southeast Asia.
