On social media, a viral video of a Chinese sun bear gained attention after it was seen waving to tourists, sparking speculation that it might be a human in disguise.
The video stirred curiosity due to the bear’s unusual stance, leading some to suggest it might be a person in disguise.
However, the zoo denied these theories and confirmed that the bear is real.
A Chinese bear sparked speculation that it might be a human in disguise
A peculiar viral video has stirred up a whirlwind of speculation and intrigue about the identity of the bear.
The footage, which shows the bear standing on its hind legs with a notably saggy appearance.
The bear even standing upright and exhibiting what some perceived as an ill-fitting costume.
Many viewers questioned whether the bear was a person in disguise.
In the comments section, rumors were fueled that the bear might not be real. Some wondered if the sun bear at Hangzhou Zoo in China could be a human in disguise.
One person said: Definitely real sun bears; they’re just super creepy, uncanny weirdos. They really do look like a person wearing a cheap bear suit.
A second wrote: My skin wrinkles when I stand.
While a third commented: She is the real deal. Sadly, however, she waves at the people so they will throw her some food. She is a bear. Not a dummy.
Someone else said: If you watch the videos of her not standing and waving, you realize it’s actually a bear.
Experts have dismissed claims that a Chinese sun bear is a man in a suit.
Despite the controversy, animal experts and the zoo itself have stepped forward to confirm the authenticity of the bear, named Angela.
In response to the viral claims, Hangzhou Zoo took to social media to address the concerns.
The zoo, emphasizing its credibility as a state-run institution, reassured the public that such deceptive practices would not occur.
They confirmed the bear’s authenticity, explaining that its appearance was due to natural features and posture
Sun bears, the smallest bear species, are native to Southeast Asia.
They are characterized by their short, sleek black fur, pale yellowish crescent on their chests, and distinctive dog-like faces.
Despite their relatively small size, standing at most 1.3 meters (4 feet 3 inches) on their hind legs, sun bears are well adapted to climbing and foraging. They thrive in their natural habitats.
The zoo highlighted the sun bear’s unique attributes and reminded visitors to respect the animals by not feeding them.
Angela, who is reportedly “dating” a male bear named Dalu, has captured global attention, racking up over 30 million views online.
Experts also confirmed that the sun bear is real and not a human in disguise
Experts have weighed in on the matter. Dr. Ashleigh Marshall, a zoologist from Chester Zoo, assured the BBC that the bear in question is indeed real.
She explained that the folds in the bear’s skin, which some interpreted as a costume, actually serve a protective function.
These folds allow the bear to maneuver and defend itself if attacked by predators, a feature common in sun bears.
The zoo’s spokesperson also addressed the claims directly, dismissing the notion of a human masquerading as a bear.
They pointed out the impracticality of wearing such a thick costume in the sweltering summer heat of up to 40°C (104°F), which would be unbearable for anyone.
The controversy surrounding Angela the Sun Bear successfully brought attention to the unique features of sun bears.
As a result, reports indicate a 30 percent rise in attendance at Hangzhou Zoo.
However, visitors continue to flock to Hangzhou Zoo to confirm whether the bear is real or a human in disguise.
