Did you know that giant pandas, once on the brink of extinction, have made a remarkable comeback?

Thanks to ongoing conservation efforts, the species was reclassified as vulnerable in 2016, and their wild population is now increasing.

Let’s dive into some fascinating facts about these iconic creatures, which play a crucial role in their ecosystem.

1. Giant Pandas Have Unique Camouflage Despite their striking black-and-white fur, giant pandas are masters of camouflage. From a distance of about 50 meters, their fur helps them blend into their natural habitat, making it difficult for predators to spot them.

This pattern is a result of evolution, as their light fur blends with snowy environments, while their dark limbs help them disappear into the shadows during sunny days.

2. Are Pandas Bears? Yes, giant pandas are indeed bears! For years, researchers were uncertain about their classification, but molecular research in the 1990s confirmed that pandas are part of the bear family (Ursidae).

3. Giant Pandas’ Eyes Are Similar to Cats' While pandas and cats might seem worlds apart, they share similar eye structures. Both have vertical slit pupils, which provide excellent night vision. This adaptation helps pandas forage for bamboo in low-light conditions.

4. How Pandas Got Their Name The scientific name of the giant panda, Ailuropoda melanoleuca, means “black and white cat-foot.” Initially, the name “panda” was linked to the red panda, as they share similar diet and paw structures. Though genetic testing later revealed they are not closely related, the name stuck.

5. Giant Pandas Are Good Swimmers and Climbers Despite their bulky, short-legged appearance, giant pandas are impressive swimmers and climbers. They climb trees and rugged mountain slopes to find cooler bamboo in the summer.

6. Giant Pandas Mainly Eat Bamboo Unlike most bears, which are omnivorous, giant pandas have evolved to eat almost exclusively bamboo—about 99% of their diet. Although rare, they may consume other vegetation like pumpkin and kidney beans, or even insects and small mammals.

7. Pandas Have Genetic Adaptations for Eating Bamboo Pandas have unique features to help them thrive on their bamboo diet. Their “pseudo-thumb,” a wrist extension, allows them to grasp bamboo stalks.

8. Pandas Spend Half the Day Eating Pandas spend a significant portion of their day (up to 16 hours) eating bamboo to meet their nutritional needs. Their digestive system is not built for a herbivorous diet, so they need to consume vast amounts—up to 12 kg (26 lbs) of bamboo per day—to get enough energy.

9. When They’re Not Eating, They’re Sleeping After eating, pandas are typically found napping. They take several naps throughout the day, each lasting 2 to 4 hours. In hot weather, their sleep can stretch longer.

10. Pandas Throughout the Day Giant pandas defecate approximately 100 times a day. Their digestive system only processes about 17% of the bamboo they consume, which leads to frequent movements.

By understanding these quirky facts, we can appreciate why giant pandas need our protection. Let’s continue supporting conservation efforts to ensure these beloved creatures have a bright future!