The sun bear, also known as Helarctos malayanus, is the smallest bear species in the world. On average, they measure around 4 to 5 feet (1.2 to 1.5 meters) in length from nose to tail. Standing at the shoulder, they reach a height of about 2 to 3 feet (60 to 90 centimeters). Sun bears have a stocky build with short, strong limbs and a large head. They weigh between 60 to 150 pounds (27 to 68 kilograms), with males being larger than females. These bears have a distinctive, crescent-shaped patch on their chest, which varies in color from yellow to orange, hence their name. They possess a long, sharp tongue that is useful for extracting insects, their primary food source.