ALL YOU EVER NEEDED TO KNOW ABOUT THE Giant panda

Cuddly-looking with highly distinctive black-and-white fur and dark ‘spectacles’, the giant panda – often referred to simply as the panda – is an undeniably popular and much-loved bear, both the national animal of China and, of course, the iconic logo of the World Wildlife Fund (WWF).

- SARAH MCPHERSON

Is the giant panda really a bear? 

Yes. Genetic studies have placed the giant panda in the bear family (Ursidae). However, its identity has been hotly debated – it was at one point placed in the Procyonidae family, which includes racoons. The giant panda is the only member of its genus, Ailuropoda.

Where does the giant panda live?

Giant pandas live in mixed forests in the mountains of south-west China (the Sichuan, Shaanxi and Gansu provinces), usually at altitudes of 1,500-3,400m. Their preference for the high life is not necessarily through choice – pandas have been pushed out of lowland habitat as a result of human encroachment.

What do pandas eat?

Bamboo, bamboo and.... bamboo. A panda must consume up to 38kg of bamboo a day to survive, giving rise to its alternative name of ‘bamboo bear’. It does also feed on grasses, and takes the occasional insect or rodent. By spreading seeds via droppings, pandas contribute to the health of forests.

How big are giant pandas?

They are approximately 70-90cm tall at the shoulder, and they weigh in the region of 100-150kg.

How many giant pandas are there?