First photographic records and conservation status of Asiatic black and sun bears in Nagaland, India

Abstract

Abstract: This study presents photographic evidence of 2 species of bears—Asiatic black bear (Ursus thibetanus) and sun bear (Helartos malayanus) from a camera-trap study conducted from January 2020 to June 2021 in Intangki National Park, Nagaland, India, where they were assumed to be extirpated. The presence of bears in Intangki shows the potential for effective species conservation in Nagaland through collaboration with local communities and government management. This finding highlights the need to draw attention to the conservation issues pertaining to large-bodied mammals, such as bears, in poorly monitored areas of the world.