Physical Characteristics
Adult giant pandas typically weigh between 70 and 100 kilograms (150–220 pounds) and measure around 1.2 to 1.9 meters (4–6 feet) in length. Their round faces, large heads, and prominent black eye patches give them an endearing, almost cartoon-like appearance. This unique coloration helps pandas camouflage in their natural environment of dense bamboo forests, where sunlight and shadows create dappled patterns.
Habitat and Behavior
Giant pandas inhabit temperate mountain forests at elevations between 1,200 and 3,500 meters (4,000–11,500 feet). These forests are characterized by thick bamboo undergrowth, which provides both food and shelter. Pandas are solitary animals, with each adult occupying a defined territory.
Reproduction and Lifespan
Giant pandas have a notoriously low reproductive rate, making their conservation a significant challenge. Female pandas are fertile for only 2–3 days a year, and even in the wild, their mating success is relatively low. After a gestation period of about 95–160 days, females give birth to one or two cubs, though typically only one survives due to the mother's limited ability to care for more than one.
The Giant Panda: A Symbol of Conservation
The giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca), with its distinctive black-and-white fur and gentle demeanor, is one of the most beloved animals in the world. Native to the mountainous regions of central China, particularly in Sichuan, Shaanxi, and Gansu provinces, the panda has become a global symbol of wildlife conservation.
Species Protected
Dedicated Experts
Acres of Habitat Restored
Animals Rescued