Atlas Bear - Definition and Overview

The Atlas Bear (Ursus crowtheri), also known as the Nandi Bear, was Africa's only native bear. Once inhabiting the Atlas Mountains from Morocco to Libya, the animal is now thought to be extinct. The last known specimen was probably killed by hunters in northern Morocco in the 1840's.

Nandi Bear Myth

Although the Atlas bear is thought to be extinct, there are, even today, stories of bear sightings among tribespeople in northern and central Africa. These sightings could possibly be attributed to the continuing existence of the Atlas Bear.

The Nandi Bear has been described as reddish to yellow in color, 3.5 feet high, long haired with a short tail and long clawed with stout legs.