Andean Bear

The Andean Bear is the only bear in South America; they live in biomes from a Tropical Rainforest to mountains and even the coast. The Andean Bear evolved from the now-extinct Giant Short-Faced Bear, which was the world's largest bear. Andean Bears are only 31” tall at the shoulders. The Andean Bear might evolve into two different sub-species, one living in the mountains and one living along the coast. The one in the mountains will not get much smaller because of high elevation, and their claws will likely stay the same to assist in climbing trees. Its coloration might also become darker to blend in more with the trees. The coastal one will get even smaller and their claws will spread out more so they can catch fish easier. Their muscle structure will change to improve their swimming abilities, and they will become lighter to blend in with the sand.