Giant Panda
The Giant Panda is a bear species endemic to China, instantly identifiable by its bold black-and-white coat. Although they belong to the order Carnivora, they have evolved to subsist almost entirely on bamboo, eating up to 38 kg a day to meet their energy needs. They possess a unique 'pseudo-thumb', which is actually an enlarged wrist bone, allowing them to grip bamboo stems with surprising dexterity.
Giant Panda Quick Facts
-
Despite being classified as carnivores, over 99% of a panda's diet is bamboo!
-
Lifespan
20 years (wild), up to 30 years (captivity)
-
Habitat
Temperate broadleaf and mixed forests
-
Diet
Bamboo, occasionally small animals
-
Region
China
Other animals
-
Southern White-faced Owl
A small owl with a distinctive white facial disk and ear tufts.
-
Crowned Pigeon
The largest pigeons in the world, with striking blue plumage and elegant crests.
-
Long-eared Owl
A medium-sized owl noted for its long ear tufts and nocturnal hunting.
-
Great White Pelican
A huge, social waterbird with a massive bill and throat pouch, famous for cooperative fishing.