Spectacled bear resting in tree © Andy Rouse/Nature Picture Library

2026-04-28 in Ecuador
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Spectacled bear resting in tree, Ecuador (© Andy Rouse/Nature Picture Library)

Spectacles in the wild

The spectacled bear, also known as the Andean bear, is the only South American bear of the Ursidae family. Inhabiting the northern and central Andes Mountains, it dwells primarily in forested areas and feeds mainly on shoots and fruit. Pale markings around the eyes often resemble eyeglasses, or 'spectacles,' giving the species its distinctive name.