The Andean bear of South America is also known as the spectacled bear because of the rings of white or light fur around its eyes, which can look like eyeglasses (or spectacles). These markings often extend down the chest, giving each bear a unique appearance and helping researchers identify each bear. Andean bears are between four and six feet long and stand two to three feet at the shoulder. Males are 30 to 50 percent larger than females. These bears are thought to use vocal communication more than any other bear except the giant panda. They make unique vocalizations like a shrill screech and a soft purr. Andean bears are also unique for their favorite food: bromeliad plants, which they climb trees to find.