Panda Bears, cute and adorable, are on the endangered species list. Their habitat, extremely limited diet and poor reproductive and infant survival combine to extremely threaten their survival.There are two kinds of Pandas. The giant white and black Panda is the one that comes to mind for most of us. But, there is also the Red Panda which is also called the lesser Panda.There are very few Pandas left in the wild and zoologists have been largely unsuccessful in breeding them in captivity up to now. The Chinese government has taken steps to protect these endangered animals.Pandas are only found in a relatively small area in Asia. They date back two to three millions year ago. Ancient chinese history and writings abound with mention of the Panda. They were kept by emperors and their hides were highly valued. They carried a mystique and were believed to be able to ward off evil spirits and natural disasters.Pandas live in and around mountainous slopes and exist on a diet largely comprised of bamboo shoots. They eat most of the day to consume the food they need for survival. There are about fifteen types of bamboo, reach with varying life cycles. Panda Bears eat primarily bamboo shoots. As die-offs in the bamboo cycle occur, the panda population also fall.Westerners, in particular Americans, have a strong fondness for these cute creatures. If you talk to a Chinese person, they do not share this same fondness and wonder why we take such a liking to them.
Panda
Panda
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