Pandas are lovable, charismatic and rare creatures; there are two different types of pandas, the popular bear-like black and white Giant Panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca) and the small raccoon-like Red Panda (Ailurus fulgens). Both types of pandas are endangered, live in China, climb trees and eat bamboo shoots; however the red panda is also found in the Tibetan Himalaya. Sub-species of Giant Pandas include the well-known Sichuan Panda Ailuropoda melanoleuca melanoleuca found in Southern China and the Shaanxi Panda Ailuropoda melanoleuca qinlingensis which is found in Central-East China, and is dark brown instead of black, has a smaller skull than the Sichuan Panda and larger molars.
Giant pandas are rarely seen in the wild, and reproduce poorly in captivity, but they are protected by the Chinese government against hunting and trading. Even though pandas have been at the top of conservation lists, they remain endangered because of decreasing bamboo plants resulting in starvation, loss of habitat and a very low birthrate. The Chinese government also exports Pandas out on 10-year loans to different zoos around the world, which is also detrimental to their survival. However, the WWF filled a law-suit in 1998, which now ensures that half of the fee will go towards panda conservation efforts.
further information:
Smithsonian National Zoological Park
Read about the giant panda
BBC: About the red panda
Pandas International
