Sloth Bear Family Crosses Fort Approach Road, Zone 3

A mother sloth bear (Melursus ursinus) with two cubs was observed crossing the Ranthambore Fort approach road during a morning safari in Zone 3 — where heritage trails and forest edge habitat overlap.

Zone 3 passes the fort ramparts, Jogi Mahal, and open terrain near Padam Talab. Sloth bears are more frequently encountered here than in most other zones, particularly in early morning when bears move between feeding areas. The fort's abandoned structures and garden patches provide shelter, while the surrounding deciduous forest supplies termites, fruit, and honey — primary sloth bear foods.

Spotted: Zone 3 (Fort Trail) | Time: Morning safari

Safety: Sloth bears are unpredictable if surprised. Your naturalist guide will maintain a safe vehicle distance. Never disembark or use flash photography.