spectacled bear

or Andean bear

Only South American species of bear (Tremarctos ornatus, family Ursidae), found in mountain forests, especially in the Andes.

It feeds mainly on shoots and fruit and is an agile climber. It stands about 2 ft (60 cm) at the shoulder, is 4–6 ft (1.2–1.8 m) long, and has a 3-in. (7-cm) tail. Its shaggy coat is dark brown to black. Whitish to yellowish marks form its "spectacles" and often extend down the neck to the chest.

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▪ mammal

also called  Andean bear 

 bear, the only South American species of the family Ursidae. It inhabits mountainous regions (particularly of the Andes), dwelling primarily in forested areas, and it feeds mainly on shoots and fruit.

      The spectacled bear is an agile climber. The adult stands to 64 cm (about 25 inches) at the shoulder and varies from 1.2 to 1.8 m (4 to 6 feet) in length, with a 7-centimetre (3-inch) tail. Its shaggy coat varies from dark brown to black. Characteristic whitish to yellowish marks usually encircle the eyes partially or completely to form “spectacles,” often extending down the neck and to the chest. Litters of one to three cubs have been born in captivity after a gestation period of 8–8 ¹/₂ months.

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