Balochistan, Baluchistan, Black bear
The Balochistan (or Baluchistan) black bear (Ursus thibetanus gedrosianus ) is a subspecies of the Asian black bear occurring in the Balochistan Mountains of southern Pakistan and Iran. It has an unusually thin coat for an Asian black bear, but this is because it is found in a warmer climate than most of the other subspecies, which are found in the much colder Himalayan Mountains. It is also more frugivorous than the other subspecies, and it loves to eat figs and bananas.
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OmnivoreAn omnivore is an animal that has the ability to eat and survive on both plant and animal matter. Obtaining energy and nutrients from plant and ani...
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ViviparousAmong animals, viviparity is the development of the embryo inside the body of the parent. The term 'viviparity' and its adjective form 'viviparous'...
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starts withThe Balochistan black bear is smaller than the other subspecies and is more variable, and may range from reddish-orange to deep black. It has a darker chest patch than the other subspecies, and has a thinner head but still has the flanks branching from its head.
The Balochistan black bear inhabits the higher ranges of the Balochistan province in southwest Pakistan. Its greatest stronghold is the hills south of Khuzdar. It has also been recorded in Takht-e-Sulaiman, Toba Kakar Range, Ziarat, and Kalat District.
It was once found in almost the entirety of Balochistan. However, it is now considered extinct in most of the area. Deforestation and loss of habitat is the greatest problem it faces.
This species is omnivorous, as it eats fruits, insects, and small reptiles. It is also known for breaking logs in the hunt of grubs. Though they are omnivorous, their preferred diet is fruits, especially Indian olives and Ber.
These are captured by locals who try to raise them as pets for circuses and bear-baiting. In bear baiting, claws and canines of each bear are extracted and they are left to fight dogs. This practice was made unlawful and prohibited in 2001 but still occurs illegally to some extent.
Habitat loss is a major threat to this species because of illegal logging, the growth of human population that leads to expansion of villages, development of highways network, and installation of power stations in the wild.
Local and nomad herders let their cattle graze in the bear territory and end up in killing the native bears, blaming them for the killing of their livestock. Poaching for body parts like gall bladders for medicines is also a threat to the species.
