Sun bears, named for the golden crescent on their chest, are the world's smallest bears. Extremely agile, sun bears are great tree climbers—and they make excellent use of their habitat's climbing structures. We are pleased that several cubs have been born here over the years! In their native habitats, sun bear populations are dwindling, facing threats from habitat loss due to increased farming and logging, poaching (both for meat and use in folk medicines), and the illegal pet trade.