The sun bear, sometimes referred to as the sea bear, is a bear species native to Southeast Asia. It is among the smallest bear species and lives primarily in tropical rainforests. It has a short, sleek coat that is usually black, though individuals can also appear brown or even blue-gray. Its diet is made up of fruits, insects, and honey.
Conservation assessments list the sun bear as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, with habitat loss and poaching cited as key pressures on its population. As it forages on fruits, insects, and honey, the species contributes to ecosystem health by acting as a pollinator and seed disperser in tropical rainforests. Its decline is linked to shrinking forest habitats across Southeast Asia, making its ecological role increasingly significant as populations face ongoing threats.