Utkarsh Prajapati

Research scholar | Working on Sloth bear ecology 🐻| conservationist.

[Utkarsh Prajapati @utkarsh41995]

Glad to share our new paper in @OryxTheJournal revealing Sloth bears are attracted to human food waste in Mount Abu town, Rajasthan. #slothbear #mountabu #rajasthan
https://t.co/zapqOTWbZA

[Project Sloth Bear @slothbear2026]

🐾 Meet the Longest Bear Claws

Among all living bear species, Sloth Bears possess the longest claws. Perfectly suited to their unique way of life, these impressive structures are one of the species' most distinctive features.

At first glance, they may look like formidable weapons—but appearances can be deceiving.
What are these extraordinary claws really designed for?

We'll explore the many roles they play in our next post. Stay tuned! 🐻

#ProjectSlothBear #WIIProjectSlothBear #SlothBear #BearEcology #AnimalAdaptations #WildlifeResearch #WildlifeFacts #BearBiology

@moefcc @CentralIfs @NationalCAMPA @wii_india @SACONCoimbatore @wii_eiacp @rameshpandeyifs @GobindsagarBha1 @RuchiBadola2 @CRamesh_WII @BivashPand34733 @Kramesh95 @amitwii @UpmaManral @ashishjangid22 @avinashyadv95 @utkarsh41995 @kaushikforwild @Hairypotter0777 @Sindhoora_2001 @Suraj_Chauhan31 @niranjanKv2770 @Kavyak0204 @MitaliJadh34762

[Project Sloth Bear @slothbear2026]

🦷🐻Dental Structure of a Sloth Bear

The teeth of a Sloth Bear reveal the story of its remarkable evolutionary adaptations. Unlike most bears, its dentition has evolved to support an insect-rich diet while still providing the strength needed for defence.

From the distinctive gap between the upper incisors to its powerful canines and reduced grinding teeth, every feature serves a purpose.

Explore the carousel to learn how the Sloth Bear's teeth are perfectly adapted to its way of life.

#ProjectSlothBear #WIIProjectSlothBear #SlothBear #BearEcology #WildlifeResearch #AnimalAdaptations #WildlifeFacts #BearBiology

@moefcc @CentralIfs @NationalCAMPA @wii_india @SACONCoimbatore @wii_eiacp @rameshpandeyifs @GobindsagarBha1 @RuchiBadola2 @CRamesh_WII @BivashPand34733 @Kramesh95 @amitwii @UpmaManral @ashishjangid22 @avinashyadv95 @utkarsh41995 @kaushikforwild @Hairypotter0777 @Sindhoora_2001 @Suraj_Chauhan31 @niranjanKv2770 @Kavyak0204 @MitaliJadh34762

[Project Sloth Bear @slothbear2026]

The Hidden Diversity Within a Species

The Sloth Bear is represented by two recognized subspecies—the Indian Sloth Bear (Melursus ursinus ursinus) and the Sri Lankan Sloth Bear (Melursus ursinus inornatus).

Although they belong to the same species, geographic isolation and environmental adaptation during the Pleistocene epoch have resulted in subtle differences in their size, appearance, and skull morphology.

These variations provide valuable insights into the evolutionary history of the species and highlight the importance of conserving distinct wildlife populations across their natural range.

#ProjectSlothBear #WIIProjectSlothBear #SlothBear #BearEcology #WildlifeResearch #Subspecies #Biodiversity

@moefcc @CentralIfs @NationalCAMPA @wii_india @SACONCoimbatore @wii_eiacp @rameshpandeyifs @GobindsagarBha1 @RuchiBadola2 @CRamesh_WII @BivashPand34733 @Kramesh95 @amitwii @UpmaManral @ashishjangid22 @avinashyadv95 @utkarsh41995 @kaushikforwild @Hairypotter0777 @Sindhoora_2001 @Suraj_Chauhan31 @niranjanKv2770 @Kavyak0204 @MitaliJadh34762

[Rajasthan Forest Department @ForestRajasthan]

Emojis may live forever on our keyboards. Wildlife needs healthy habitats and continued conservation to thrive in the real world.

This World Emoji Day, let’s protect the animals behind the icons and preserve Rajasthan’s wild reality. 🌿

#WorldEmojiDay

[Project Sloth Bear @slothbear2026]

🐾 Hidden Language of Sloth Bears | Part 1: Scent Marking

Although Sloth Bears are mostly solitary, they constantly communicate through chemical signals left across the landscape.

Through pede-marking, rubbing, scratching, biting, and other scent-marking behaviours, they leave information that helps other bears identify who has been there, their reproductive status, and whether to avoid or investigate the area.

A study by Swaminathan et al. (2017) documented wild male Sloth Bears pede-marking around den sites using camera traps, while studies on captive bears suggest that scent-marking behaviours may also play an important role in mate communication.

One signal decoded… many more remain. Stay tuned for the next part of the Hidden Language of Sloth Bears 🐻

#ProjectSlothBear #WIIProjectSlothBear #SlothBear #AnimalCommunication #ChemicalCommunication #ScentMarking #WildlifeResearch #BearBehaviour

@moefcc @CentralIfs @NationalCAMPA @wii_india @SACONCoimbatore @wii_eiacp @rameshpandeyifs @GobindsagarBha1 @RuchiBadola2 @CRamesh_WII @BivashPand34733 @Kramesh95 @amitwii @UpmaManral @ashishjangid22 @avinashyadv95 @utkarsh41995 @kaushikforwild @Hairypotter0777 @Sindhoora_2001 @Suraj_Chauhan31 @niranjanKv2770 @Kavyak0204 @MitaliJadh34762

[Project Sloth Bear @slothbear2026]

🐾Every species has its own way of communicating.

Across the animal kingdom, communication takes many forms—from chemical cues and vocalizations to visual displays, tactile interactions, and vibrations. These signals help them locate mates, establish territories, avoid threats, find food, and maintain social relationships.

From the pheromone trails of ants to the songs of birds, the gentle touch of elephants, and the visual displays of primates, each species has evolved its own unique way of exchanging information.

So, what about Sloth Bears?
Mostly solitary and with limited eyesight and hearing, they communicate in fascinating ways.

Stay tuned to uncover their secret language! 🐻

#ProjectSlothBear #WIIProjectSlothBear #AnimalCommunication #SlothBear #WildlifeFacts #WildlifeResearch

@moefcc @CentralIfs @NationalCAMPA @wii_india @SACONCoimbatore @wii_eiacp @rameshpandeyifs @GobindsagarBha1 @RuchiBadola2 @CRamesh_WII @BivashPand34733 @Kramesh95 @amitwii @UpmaManral @ashishjangid22 @avinashyadv95 @utkarsh41995 @kaushikforwild @Hairypotter0777 @Sindhoora_2001 @Suraj_Chauhan31 @niranjanKv2770 @Kavyak0204 @MitaliJadh34762

[PIB | MoEFCC @EnvironmentPib]

Union Env Minister chaired 7th Meeting of Governing Body of National CAMPA; reviewed its Overall Performance, at Coimbatore

4 new Wildlife Conservation Projects for Dolphins, Snow Leopards, Wild Water Buffalo & Indian Rhinoceros approved by GB CAMPA

📝 https://t.co/jFwtPCww9K

[Project Sloth Bear @slothbear2026]

🐻 First Comprehensive Assessment of India's Sloth Bear Sanctuaries

The "Conservation Status Report of Sloth Bear Sanctuaries in India", prepared under Project Sloth Bear by the Wildlife Institute of India, was released during the 91st Meeting of the Standing Committee of the National Board for Wildlife (SC-NBWL) held at Coimbatore on 9 July 2026.

The report provides the first nationwide assessment of India's notified Sloth Bear Sanctuaries, highlighting their conservation status, habitat characteristics, management challenges, and priority actions to support evidence-based conservation.

This publication marks an important milestone under #WIIProjectSlothBear and will serve as a valuable reference for wildlife managers, policymakers, researchers, and conservation practitioners.

During the meeting, Dr. Ramesh Chinnasamy, Principal Investigator of #WIIProjectSlothBear, also presented the progress and future roadmap of the project to Hon'ble Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Shri Bhupender Yadav and SC-NBWL members.

#ProjectSlothBear #WIIProjectSlothBear #SCNBWL #SlothBear #WildlifeConservation #ConservationBook #ProtectedAreas #SlothBearSanctuary

@byadavbjp @moefcc @CentralIfs @NationalCAMPA @wii_india @SACONCoimbatore @wii_eiacp @rameshpandeyifs @GobindsagarBha1 @RuchiBadola2 @CRamesh_WII @BivashPand34733 @Kramesh95 @amitwii @UpmaManral @ashishjangid22 @avinashyadv95 @utkarsh41995 @kaushikforwild @Hairypotter0777 @Sindhoora_2001 @Suraj_Chauhan31 @niranjanKv2770 @Kavyak0204 @MitaliJadh34762

[Project Sloth Bear @slothbear2026]

🌏🌿 Beyond Protected Areas: India's Other Area-Based Conservation Measures

Conserving biodiversity goes beyond Protected Areas. India also safeguards its natural heritage through several area-based conservation measures established under national laws and international commitments.
These include:
🌿47 Biodiversity Heritage Sites (BHS)
🌿18 Biosphere Reserves
🌿89 Ramsar Sites
🌿488 Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZs)
🌿554 Important Bird Areas (IBAs)
🌿531 Key Biodiversity Areas (KBAs)
🌿7 Natural & 1 Mixed World Heritage Sites

🌳 India's total forest and tree cover extends over 25.17% of the country's geographical area, comprising 21.76% of forest cover and 3.41% of tree cover (ISFR 2023). Together with a Protected Area network covering nearly 5.4% of India's geographical area, these landscapes form the backbone of the country's biodiversity conservation and ecological resilience.

📈 Stay tuned for our next post as we explore how India's Protected Area network has grown over the years.

Source: ENVIS-WII, ISFR 2023, NTCA, NBA, BNHS, UNESCO, Ramsar Convention & MoEFCC.

#WIIProjectSlothBear #Biodiversity #ProtectedAreas #BiodiversityHeritageSites #RamsarSites #BiosphereReserves #EcoSensitiveZones #KeyBiodiversityAreas #WildlifeConservation

@moefcc @CentralIfs @NationalCAMPA @wii_india @SACONCoimbatore @wii_eiacp @rameshpandeyifs @GobindsagarBha1 @RuchiBadola2 @CRamesh_WII @BivashPand34733 @Kramesh95 @amitwii @UpmaManral @ashishjangid22 @avinashyadv95 @utkarsh41995 @kaushikforwild @Hairypotter0777
@Sindhoora_2001 @Suraj_Chauhan31 @niranjanKv2770 @Kavyak0204 @MitaliJadh34762

[Project Sloth Bear @slothbear2026]

🐻 Learning from Communities, Understanding Sloth Bears

As part of the #WIIProjectSlothBear, interactions with local communities around Sundha Mata Conservation Reserve, Rajasthan provided valuable insights into how people understand and live alongside Sloth Bears.

These conversations revealed local knowledge on bear movement patterns, seasonal activity, feeding habits, and the times and places where encounters are most likely.

Such local knowledge, built over years of coexistence, offers an important perspective that complements scientific research and helps strengthen conservation planning. 🌿🐾

#ProjectSlothBear #WIIProjectSlothBear #SundhaMata #HumanBearCoexistence #TraditionalKnowledge #SlothBearConservation

@moefcc @CentralIfs @NationalCAMPA @wii_india @SACONCoimbatore @wii_eiacp @rameshpandeyifs @GobindsagarBha1 @RuchiBadola2 @CRamesh_WII @BivashPand34733 @Kramesh95 @amitwii @UpmaManral @ashishjangid22 @avinashyadv95 @utkarsh41995 @kaushikforwild @Hairypotter0777 @Sindhoora_2001 @Suraj_Chauhan31 @niranjanKv2770 @Kavyak0204 @MitaliJadh34762

[Project Sloth Bear @slothbear2026]

🐻 Understanding Communities for Better Conservation

As part of the #WIIProjectSlothBear, socio-economic surveys were carried out in villages around Jessore Sloth Bear Sanctuary, Banaskantha district, North Gujarat.

Building on the pilot-tested survey framework from the Mount Abu landscape, these assessments documented livelihood patterns, forest dependency, and community perceptions towards Sloth Bears.

The information gathered will help strengthen our understanding of the human–bear interface and support more informed, context-specific conservation planning. 🌿🐾

#ProjectSlothBear #WIIProjectSlothBear #JessoreSlothBearSanctuary #SocioEconomicSurvey #HumanBearCoexistence

@moefcc @CentralIfs @NationalCAMPA @wii_india @SACONCoimbatore @wii_eiacp @rameshpandeyifs @GobindsagarBha1 @RuchiBadola2 @CRamesh_WII @BivashPand34733 @Kramesh95 @amitwii @UpmaManral @ashishjangid22 @avinashyadv95 @utkarsh41995 @kaushikforwild @Hairypotter0777 @Sindhoora_2001 @Suraj_Chauhan31 @niranjanKv2770 @Kavyak0204 @MitaliJadh34762

[Project Sloth Bear @slothbear2026]

🌱🐻 Van Mahotsav Saptah | Sloth Bears as Forest Gardeners

Yesterday, we explored how bears help forests regenerate through seed dispersal. But what about Sloth Bears?

A recent study by Prajapati et al. (2026) @utkarsh41995 has shown that Sloth Bears (Melursus ursinus) play an important role in forest regeneration in western India. Their research found that seeds of multiple plant species remain viable even after passing through the bear’s digestive system, allowing them to germinate and establish in new locations.

By consuming seasonal fruits and dispersing seeds across the landscape, Sloth Bears act as silent forest gardeners, contributing to the renewal and dynamics of dry forests.

Sometimes, the future of a forest begins in the most unexpected way. 🌿🐾

#VanMahotsav #ProjectSlothBear #WIIProjectSlothBear #SlothBear #SeedDispersal #ForestRegeneration #BearEcology #WildlifeConservation

@moefcc @CentralIfs @NationalCAMPA @wii_india @SACONCoimbatore @wii_eiacp @rameshpandeyifs @GobindsagarBha1 @RuchiBadola2 @CRamesh_WII @BivashPand34733 @Kramesh95 @amitwii @UpmaManral @ashishjangid22 @avinashyadv95 @utkarsh41995 @kaushikforwild @Hairypotter0777 @Sindhoora_2001 @Suraj_Chauhan31 @niranjanKv2770 @Kavyak0204 @MitaliJadh34762 @ForNat0

[Project Sloth Bear @slothbear2026]

🐻 Can Sloth Bears Swim?

Although Sloth Bears are mostly known for foraging on land, they are capable swimmers and may enter water bodies for several reasons. They may cross rivers or streams while moving through their habitat, search for food along water edges, or enter water to cool down during hot weather.

In some landscapes, especially during dry seasons, water sources can also attract both wildlife and people. This overlap can sometimes increase the chances of unexpected encounters and conflict.

Reducing disturbance near natural water sources, avoiding sudden approaches, and maintaining safe space can help minimize such interactions.

For Sloth Bears, water is not just an obstacle—it can also be an important part of survival. 🐾

#ProjectSlothBear #WIIProjectSlothBear #SlothBear #BearBehaviour #WildlifeFacts #HumanWildlifeCoexistence

@moefcc @CentralIfs @NationalCAMPA @wii_india @SACONCoimbatore @wii_eiacp @rameshpandeyifs @GobindsagarBha1 @RuchiBadola2 @CRamesh_WII @BivashPand34733 @Kramesh95 @amitwii @UpmaManral @ashishjangid22 @avinashyadv95 @utkarsh41995 @kaushikforwild @Hairypotter0777 @Sindhoora_2001 @Suraj_Chauhan31 @niranjanKv2770 @Kavyak0204 @MitaliJadh34762 @ForNat0

[Project Sloth Bear @slothbear2026]

As part of the IGNFA training curriculum, the Wildlife Institute of India (WII), Dehradun, is conducting a three-day elective module (29 June – 01 July 2026) on Managing Human–Wildlife Coexistence in Agriculture Landscapes for officer trainees (Batch 2024) of the IGNFA.

The programme began with an overview of the module and training approach by Dr. Ramesh Chinnasamy, Scientist-E, WII, outlining the key themes and expected outcomes.

Dr. S. Sathyakumar then led a session on “Overview of Human–Wildlife Conflict: Patterns & Major Drivers”, highlighting how species behaviour, habitat conditions, and human activities shape conflict patterns.

The trainees were subsequently introduced to the diverse dimensions of human–bear interface management, exploring how conflict scenarios differ among India's bear species—from crop depredation by Asiatic Black Bears to livestock interactions involving Himalayan Brown Bears. The discussion also highlighted the unique challenges associated with Sloth Bears, where conflicts are largely driven by sudden encounters, crop use, and habitat degradation, underscoring the need for landscape-specific, ecology-based management approaches.

The sessions provided practical insights for officer trainees from different range states, strengthening their understanding of human–wildlife interface management.

#IGNFA #HumanWildlifeConflict #SlothBear #WIIProjectSlothBear #BearConservation

@moefcc @CentralIfs @NationalCAMPA @wii_india @IGNFA_GoI @SACONCoimbatore @wii_eiacp @GobindsagarBha1 @RuchiBadola2 @EIACPIndia @CRamesh_WII @Kramesh95 @amarjeet_kaur10 @BivashPand34733 @paragnigam09

[Project Sloth Bear @slothbear2026]

🐻Why do Sloth Bears stand on their hind legs? | Part 1

Standing upright in Sloth Bears is often misunderstood as aggression—but that’s not always the case.

This behaviour can serve multiple purposes—from assessing their surroundings and detecting scents to marking territory and engaging in social interactions such as playful fights.

Swipe through to explore some of the reasons behind this fascinating behaviour. ➡️

But if standing is not always aggressive… what happens when it actually is? 👀

Stay tuned for Part 2. 🐾

#ProjectSlothBear #WIIProjectSlothBear #SlothBear #BearBehaviour #WildlifeFacts #BearEcology

@moefcc @CentralIfs @NationalCAMPA @wii_india @SACONCoimbatore @wii_eiacp @rameshpandeyifs @GobindsagarBha1 @RuchiBadola2 @CRamesh_WII @BivashPand34733 @Kramesh95 @amitwii @UpmaManral @ashishjangid22 @avinashyadv95 @utkarsh41995 @kaushikforwild @Hairypotter0777 @Sindhoora_2001 @Suraj_Chauhan31 @niranjanKv2770 @Kavyak0204 @MitaliJadh34762 @ForNat0

[Project Sloth Bear @slothbear2026]

🐻 Why do Sloth Bears stand on their hind legs? | Part 2

Standing upright in Sloth Bears can sometimes be more than curiosity—it can be an important survival response.

In certain situations, this posture helps them respond to threats, protect themselves, and prepare for confrontation.

A posture that may look simple—but at the right moment, it can mean survival. 🐾

#ProjectSlothBear #WIIProjectSlothBear #SlothBear #BearBehaviour #WildlifeFacts #BearEcology

@moefcc @CentralIfs @NationalCAMPA @wii_india @SACONCoimbatore @wii_eiacp @rameshpandeyifs @GobindsagarBha1 @RuchiBadola2 @CRamesh_WII @BivashPand34733 @Kramesh95 @amitwii @UpmaManral @ashishjangid22 @avinashyadv95 @utkarsh41995 @kaushikforwild @Hairypotter0777 @Sindhoora_2001 @Suraj_Chauhan31 @niranjanKv2770 @Kavyak0204 @MitaliJadh34762 @ForNat0

[Utkarsh Prajapati @utkarsh41995]

Thank you for highlighting the role. Glad to contribute to understanding the important role of Sloth Bears in seed dispersal and dry forest regeneration.

Read full article
https://t.co/90RIDo2I4t

#SlothBear #SeedDispersal #Conservation

[Rajasthan Forest Department @ForestRajasthan]

वन्यजीव सुरक्षित रहेंगे, तो वन भी निरंतर बढ़ते रहेंगे। स्लॉथ भालू केवल जंगल में रहते ही नहीं, बल्कि उनके विस्तार में महत्वपूर्ण सहयोगी भी हैं।

फल खाने के बाद बीज उनके पाचन तंत्र से होकर बीट के माध्यम से दूर-दूर तक पहुंचते हैं।

[Project Sloth Bear @slothbear2026]

🐻Sloth Bear Mothers and Cubs

A Sloth Bear’s journey into motherhood begins with a gestation period of around 210 days (~6–7 months). The average litter size is usually 1–2 cubs.

After birth, cubs stay hidden in dens for the first few weeks before emerging to display one of the most unique bear behaviours—riding on their mother’s back for protection. This can continue for 6–9 months, while cubs learn to walk, climb, and forage. They usually remain with their mother for 12–18 months, sometimes up to 2 years.

Sloth Bear mothers are highly protective, and this strong bond means they can become aggressive if they sense danger.

⚠️ If you encounter a mother Sloth Bear with cubs, always maintain a safe distance.

A remarkable bond of care and survival in the wild. 🐾

#ProjectSlothBear #WIIProjectSlothBear #SlothBear #MotherAndCub #BearBehaviour #WildlifeResearch

@moefcc @CentralIfs @NationalCAMPA @wii_india @SACONCoimbatore @wii_eiacp @rameshpandeyifs @GobindsagarBha1 @RuchiBadola2 @CRamesh_WII @BivashPand34733 @Kramesh95 @amitwii @UpmaManral @ashishjangid22 @avinashyadv95 @utkarsh41995 @kaushikforwild @Hairypotter0777 @Sindhoora_2001 @Suraj_Chauhan31 @niranjanKv2770 @Kavyak0204 @MitaliJadh34762 @ForNat0

[Project Sloth Bear @slothbear2026]

🐻 Origin of the Name: Sloth Bear

The Sloth Bear gets its name from early naturalists who observed its long claws, shaggy coat, and slow climbing behaviour, which reminded them of sloths.

In 1791, European zoologist George Shaw even called it a “Bear-like Sloth” and classified it as Bradypus ursinus, placing it with sloths under the genus Bradypus, meaning “slow-footed.”

Later, scientists recognized that it was actually a bear and reclassified it as Melursus ursinus, the scientific name it carries today.

Despite the name, Sloth Bears are entirely distinct from sloths and have their own unique evolutionary identity.

#ProjectSlothBear #WIIProjectSlothBear #SlothBear #MelursusUrsinus #WildlifeHistory #BearFacts

@moefcc @CentralIfs @NationalCAMPA @wii_india @SACONCoimbatore @wii_eiacp @rameshpandeyifs @GobindsagarBha1 @RuchiBadola2 @CRamesh_WII @BivashPand34733 @Kramesh95 @amitwii @UpmaManral @ashishjangid22 @avinashyadv95 @kaushikforwild @Hairypotter0777 @Sindhoora_2001 @Suraj_Chauhan31 @niranjanKv2770 @Kavyak0204 @MitaliJadh34762 @ForNat0

[prerna singh bindra 🐘🐅🐾 @prernabindra]

The #bear did not charge. It was harassed, hassled by a mob, it was looking for a way out, to escape. This is not 'conflict'.
Why do people misbehave, aggravating the situation? A cornered animal will react out of fear, stress.
Please respect #wildlife & their freedom and give them a safe passage.
#Malkangiri, #Odisha