Research project helps real-life Paddington bears

Andean bears are considered vulnerable in the wild in South America

Researchers from Sussex have been in South America raising awareness of conservation concerns for the real-life Paddington, the Andean bear.

A team from the University of Sussex is working with farmers in the Andes in Ecuador to stop deforestation and improve habitats which are classed as vulnerable.

As part of a project, which began in December 2023, experts are trying to develop a greater understanding of the behaviours of the bear.

Prof Fiona Mathews said the research "isn’t just about helping to protect wildlife" but also "supporting local communities so that we create a truly sustainable future".

The Andean bear is classified as vulnerable because of habitat loss.

Paddington, with books, TV shows and a successful film franchise, has increased interest in the species.

The latest film, Paddington in Peru, is released in cinemas on Friday.

Paddington films have increased interest in the Andean bear

This large-scale deforestation along the Equador-Peru border has greatly reduced the Andean bear’s natural habitat, according to researchers.

This has led to increasing conflict with local communities, with many farmers claiming that the bears are eating their crops and livestock.

The team from Sussex is taking in the views of people in Ecuador on forest conservation as well as exploring possible legal protection of the bears through rights of nature legislation.

Prof Mathews said: “Over time, we hope to be able to help many more families as this collaboration of efforts will hopefully help to positively impact the forests and native wildlife.”

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