Context:

A rare sighting of a Himalayan Brown Bear—possibly with its family—has been reported in the Nelong and Jadung Valleys within Gangotri National Park, Uttarakhand. The sighting has sparked excitement among conservationists and wildlife enthusiasts.

?? About the Himalayan Brown Bear

The Himalayan Brown Bear (Ursus arctos isabellinus) is the largest carnivorous mammal native to the high-altitude regions of the Himalayas. It is considered one of the most ancient lineages among brown bears.

• Other Names: Himalayan Red Bear, Isabelline Bear
• Local Name: Denmo (Ladakhi)
• The bear's upright walking posture is believed to have inspired the myth of the Yeti, also known as the “Abominable Snowman.”

?? Distribution and Habitat

• Found in the northwestern and central Himalayas, spanning:
  • India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bhutan, and the Tibetan Autonomous Region of China.
• Habitat elevation: 3,000 to 5,500 meters (9,800 to 18,000 feet), usually above the timberline.
• In India, small and fragmented populations are found in:
  • Jammu & Kashmir
  • Himachal Pradesh
  • Uttarakhand

?? Physical Characteristics

• Males: ~1.9 meters in length, ~135 kg in weight
• Females: ~1.6 meters in length, ~70 kg in weight
• Fur: Thick and most commonly sandy or reddish-brown

??? Diet and Behavior

• Diet: Omnivorous
  • Includes grasses, roots, bulbs, insects, small mammals (marmots, pikas, voles)
• Hibernation: During winter, in dens
• Social Behavior: Generally solitary, except:
  • During mating season
  • Mother with cubs

? Life Span

• 20 to 30 years in the wild

??? Conservation Status

• IUCN Red List: Critically Endangered
• Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 (India): Schedule I
• CITES: Appendix I