Sun Bears are classified as vulnerable by the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) meaning they will become extinct in the wild within 30 years if current rates of deforestation and poaching continue. They are the smallest species of bear and are a key stone species, in that many other species of animals and plants rely on their activities to survive.
FAQ
Sun bears spend at least the first 2 years of their lives with their mum. There is usually only one cub and so the single cub has 2 years of undivided attention learning many lessons on how to survive in the wild. They need to learn what they can eat and how to find it (they eat over a hundred different types of food). They also need to learn how to stay away from predators, even away from territorial male Sun Bears. They need to learn how to make a safe nest, and they need to know how and when to climb high into the trees. Without these skills a Sun Bear can die from starvation or from a predator. They also learn to stay away from people. Some Sun Bears, if they have spent a good part of their lives in the wild and then end up with people or come to us then they may be able to be rehabilitated and released if the release site is safe. If Sun Bears are injured due to being caught in a snare and have amputated or damaged limbs, we would like to make sure that they can still climb and still tear logs apart to get to nutritious larvae, pupae or insects inside and we can then work to rehabilitate them, with a lot of consideration for the Sun Bears health, welfare and potential.
Sumatran Sun Bear Team conservation Centre is not a zoo. Zoos are often part of breeding programs and we won’t be doing any breeding with the animals in our care. Many Zoos are actively involved in conservation and rehabilitation and release programs and we too are involved with these actions. We work with the knowledge that Zoos have and we have staff members with some great Zoo experience. Zoos also are involved in education programs, we also are running educational tours and working with the local schools and visitors.
We would love for you to visit the bears and experience first-hand the positive impact our work is having on bears in Sumatra. With every donation we are that much closer to improving the facility to accommodate visitors so you can see the impact of your donation. Follow us on FB or check out our news page to be the first to know when you can book your visit!
Sun Bears are a strong animal and we don’t encourage people to handle them. We try really hard to let the Sun Bears display natural behaviours and that means climbing, digging and foraging for food, but for the bears that are going to stay with us for the rest of their lives, we will build up a rapport so that they feel very comfortable in our company. If they can’t be released then we will make sure that they feel relaxed and safe while in our care.
We hope to welcome volunteers to the Sumatran Sun Bear Team conservation centre very soon. Follow us on FB or check out our news page to be the first to know when you can book your volunteering visit!
Yes. As a registered Australian Charity all donations over $2 are tax deductable.
We are honoured that you are inspired to help us make a difference to the Sun Bears of Sumatra.
If you would like to run your own fundraising event please email us at info@sumtransunbearteam.org for more information.
You can also help spread the word about Sumatran Sun Bear Team and the plight of bears in Sumatra by sharing our Facebook page or our website with your contacts.
By supporting our efforts your actions make a difference and a positive impact on Sumatran Sun bears’ lives. Thank you!
Still have questions about Sumatran Sun Bear team? Please contact us for more information