Himalayan Brown Bear
Why it Matters?
Human–Himalayan brown bear conflicts are increasing across the Himalayas, driven by climate change, habitat loss, and bears’ adaptation to human food sources. Incidents like Quratulain Balouch’s attack underscore risks.
What You Should Know?
The Himalayan brown bear (Ursus arctos isabellinus) is a subspecies of the brown bear.
It is also called the isabelline bear or the Himalayan Red Bear.
It inhabits high-altitude regions of the central and north-western Himalayas, including Pakistan, Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Nepal.
Its fur is usually sandy or reddish-brown.
The bear is omnivorous, eating grasses, roots, insects, fruits, and occasionally livestock.
It is solitary and mainly nocturnal.
The species is listed as Critically Endangered in IUCN Red list due to habitat loss, poaching, and human-bear conflicts.