Syrian brown bear

The Syrian brown bear, a distinct subspecies of the brown bear, inhabits the Middle East. Genetic studies have shown that they belong to the Eurasian brown bear lineage. These bears are characterized by their light brown fur, often interspersed with straw-colored patches, longer hair around the shoulders, and white claws. They are relatively small compared to other brown bears, with males weighing up to 550 pounds and measuring 101-140 cm from nose to tail. Interestingly, the population in the Caucasus was once believed to be a hybrid of Syrian and Eurasian brown bears, but genetic research has confirmed them to be purely Eurasian.

Syrian brown bears typically birth one to three cubs per litter. Historically, their range extended from Turkey to Turkmenistan, but they have vanished from Jordan, Israel, and the State of Palestine. Today, they can still be found in Turkey, Iran, and Iraq. In Turkey, they inhabit various forest types at elevations ranging from 500 to 2,700 meters. In Iran, they are seen in areas such as the Central Alborz Protected Area and the Zagros Mountains.

These bears face numerous threats, including habitat fragmentation, degradation, and persecution, particularly in Turkey. They are illegally hunted for their fat, which is believed to have medicinal properties. Additionally, they often fall victim to hunts targeting other animals or get caught in poisoned baits and snares intended for different wildlife.