Himalayan Brown Bear

Himalayan Brown Bear: Recently, a rare sighting of the Himalayan brown bear, reportedly with its family, was recorded in the Nelong and Jadung Valleys within Gangotri National Park, Uttarakhand.

o The sighting has generated significant excitement among wildlife experts and conservationists.

• About Himalayan Brown Bear : Scientific Name: Ursus arctos isabellinus

o Also known as the Himalayan Red Bear, Isabelline Bear, or Denmo (in Ladakhi).

o One of the oldest lineages of brown bears, believed by some to have inspired the Yeti (Abominable Snowman) legend due to its upright walking ability.

o Largest mammal in the high-altitude Himalayan ecosystem.

o Habitat & Distribution: Found in the northwestern and central Himalayas, including regions of: India, Pakistan, Nepal, Tibet (China), and Bhutan.

- Lives above the timberline, at elevations between 3,000 and 5,500 metres.

- In India, small isolated populations exist in: Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand.

o Omnivorous: Eats grasses, roots, bulbs, insects, and small mammals like marmots and pikas.

o Solitary by nature, except during mating season or between mother and cubs.