The spectacled bear is a medium-sized bear of the Andes, named for the pale rings around its eyes. It lives mainly on plants and is a key species of cloud forests and páramo grasslands.
Interesting facts
- Each bear has unique cream-coloured markings on its face and chest.
- It is also called the Andean bear.
- Spectacled bears build platforms in trees to rest and feed.
- They are skilled climbers and can climb tall trees to reach fruit.
- Paddington Bear, from ‘darkest Peru’, is a spectacled bear.
- They play an important role in spreading the seeds of Andean plants.
Behaviour
Spectacled bears are solitary and mostly active by day. They are shy and rarely seen, spending much of their time in trees.
Breeding and young
One to three cubs are born in a den and stay with their mother for about a year, often riding on her back.
Threats and conservation
Habitat loss for farming and mining, conflict with farmers over crops and livestock, and hunting.
Where to see it
- Maquipucuna Reserve, Ecuador, when fruit trees ripen (around June to August)
- Chaparrí Ecological Reserve, Peru
- Chingaza National Park, Colombia
- Machu Picchu Historical Sanctuary, Peru (rare sightings)
Status source: IUCN Red List. Profile last reviewed September 2026.
