Sun Bear Expert Confirms: Bear in Chinese Zoo Was Not a Human in Costume
The controversial debate surrounding a bear in a Chinese zoo being mistaken for a human in a costume has finally been put to rest. Expert opinions from wildlife biologist and sun bear specialist, Siew Te Wong, have confirmed that the bear in question is indeed a sun bear, not a human impersonator. Wong, who has dedicated 25 years to studying and conserving sun bears, expressed his astonishment at the rumors and assured the public of the bear’s true identity.
In a recent CNN interview, Wong confidently stated, I am very, very convinced, 100 percent sure that it is a sun bear. He went on to explain that the public’s lack of knowledge about sun bears may have contributed to the confusion. Clarifying the sun bear’s distinctive characteristics, Wong highlighted their human-like behavior, such as standing and walking on their hind legs. He also pointed out that sun bear mothers have the remarkable ability to carry their cubs using their hands while walking upright.
The controversy arose when a video of the bear named Angela went viral, capturing the bear’s humanoid stance and its interaction with visitors at Hangzhou Zoo in China. However, Wong asserted that sun bears naturally exhibit such behavior from an early age to enhance their sensory experience and explore their environment. In a zoo setting, where they interact with humans and seek attention, this behavior becomes even more pronounced.
The sun bear, recognized by its golden crescent on the chest, is the smallest bear species worldwide, half the size of the American black bear. Unfortunately, sun bears are currently classified as a vulnerable species, with their population declining by 30 percent over the past three decades, according to the World Wildlife Fund. Wong expressed hope that the incident would raise awareness about sun bears and the threats they face due to deforestation and hunting.
The Hangzhou Zoo has firmly asserted Angela’s true identity as a sun bear. While acknowledging that sun bears may have superficial differences from people’s expectations, the zoo emphasized that Angela is unquestionably a genuine bear. In a statement written from Angela’s perspective, the zoo addressed the misconceptions, stating, I am a Malayan sun bear! Not a black bear! Not a dog! A sun bear!
As this debate surrounding the bear’s identity comes to a close, it serves as a reminder of the limited knowledge and misconceptions surrounding sun bears. Wong hopes that this incident will not only shed light on the human-like qualities of sun bears but also draw attention to their endangered status. By educating the public and encouraging conservation efforts, we can protect these remarkable creatures and their natural habitats.
Sun bears are a crucial part of our ecosystem, and it is our responsibility to ensure their survival for future generations. With their unmistakable appearance and distinctive behavior, sun bears truly stand apart as one of nature’s marvels. Let us use this opportunity to appreciate and protect these extraordinary creatures.
