Common names: Giant Panda, Panda
Scientific name: Ailuropoda melanoleuca
Conservation status: Endangered
Population in the Wild: aprox. 1500 – 3000
Habitat: Mountain ranges in central China
Behavior: terrestrial, herbivore
Closest Relatives: Spectacled Bear
Interesting fact(s):
-The panda has characteristics similar to a raccoons and bears so it took decades to come to a consensus on taxidermic classification. After DNA studies it was determined that the panda was part of the bear family.
-Pandas have pupils with vertical slits like a cat, all other bears have round pupils
-Pandas have been called by many names in the past including mottled bear, particolored bear, spotted bear, cat bear, bamboo bear, bear cat, large bear cat
Threats:
-habitat loss
-low birthrate
Conservation Organizations:
