The Giant Panda
The giant panda is an iconic species known for its black and white fur and diet primarily based on bamboo.
General Description
Scientific Name: Ailuropoda melanoleuca
Natural Habitat: Mountains of China, mainly in Sichuan, Shaanxi, and Gansu.
Diet: 99% bamboo, occasionally honey, eggs, fish, and small rodents.
Conservation Status: Vulnerable (IUCN).
Fun Facts
Reproduction: Breeding season is only 2-3 days per year.
Size and Weight: 70-100 kg and 1.2-1.9 meters in length.
Lifespan: 15-20 years in the wild, over 30 years in captivity.
Sense of Smell: Excellent sense of smell to detect other pandas.
Behavior: Solitary but peaceful, communicating through sounds and scent markers.
Cultural Impact
Symbol of Conservation: Symbol of WWF and the conservation of endangered species.
Chinese Culture: Symbol of peace and good luck in Chinese culture.