Common Bear Cuscus

About this species

The Sulawesi bear cuscus, also known as the Sulawesi bear phalanger (Ailurops ursinus), belongs to arboreal marsupial in the family Phalangeridae that is endemic to Sulawesi and nearby islands in Indonesia. One specimen was observed adopting a raised posture while making short, harsh chattering and clicking sounds. Feeding only amounts to about 5% of their daily activity, compared to about 63% spent on resting. Despite its status and declining population trend, the bear cuscus is not protected by Indonesian law or listed in the CITES appendices, even though it is commonly traded in Sulawesi and abroad. (Wikipedia, general species account).

It was previously protected by Indonesian law from 1999 to 2018, even after its reclassification from the name Phalanger ursinus in 1987. There continues to be consistent demand for bear cuscus meat at bushmeat markets. Stronger action must be taken to combat poaching, including developing alternative economic opportunities for local people, improving awareness and environmental education, and mitigating demand for bushmeat. These operations often employ harmful extractive processes that cause substantial damage to the surrounding ecosystem. (Wikipedia, general species account).

Description: Wildlife of sulawesi guide, Wildlife of Everywhere (wildlifeofeverywhere.com); general species information paraphrased from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA)