Every year on August 8, wildlife fans and conservationists mark International Moon Bear Day to celebrate and protect Asia’s crescent-chested bears.
Named for the distinctive white, crescent-shaped patch on their chest, moon bears are medium-to-large sized animals that can weigh between 100 and 200 kilograms. Known as adept climbers, they often scale trees to forage, rest, or escape threats.
These omnivores maintain forest health by eating fruits, nuts, plants, and even small mammals. As they move through woodlands, moon bears disperse seeds in their droppings—an unsung service that boosts biodiversity and keeps ecosystems thriving.
Despite their ecological importance, moon bears face growing challenges. Habitat loss, illegal poaching, and trade in bear bile and paws have pushed the species onto the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Red List as vulnerable. That status signals a high risk of extinction in the wild.
How You Can Help
- Share stories and facts with #MoonBearDay and #AsiaWildlife to raise awareness
- Support conservation groups focused on habitat protection
- Encourage your network to learn more and take action
Together, we can ensure moon bears continue to roam Asia’s forests and play their vital role for generations to come.
Reference(s):
International Moon Bear Day: A call-to-action for Asia's iconic bears
cgtn.com
