"Panda" commonly refers to the giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca), which is a bear species native to

the mountainous regions of central China. Here are some key characteristics and information about
pandas:

1. **Appearance:** Giant pandas are easily recognized by their distinct black-and-white fur pattern.
They have a predominantly white coat with black eye patches, ears, shoulders, and legs.

2. **Diet:** Pandas are primarily herbivores, with bamboo making up the majority of their diet. They
have a specialized digestive system adapted to break down and extract nutrients from bamboo.

3. **Habitat:** Giant pandas are found in the bamboo forests of the mountains in central China,
particularly in Sichuan, Shaanxi, and Gansu provinces. They inhabit elevations between 5,000 and 10,000
feet.

4. **Endangered Status:** Giant pandas are classified as endangered, primarily due to habitat loss and
fragmentation, as well as low reproductive rates. Conservation efforts, including the establishment of
reserves and breeding programs, aim to protect and increase the panda population.

5. **Conservation Efforts:** The conservation of giant pandas is a global effort involving the Chinese
government, international organizations, and conservationists. Breeding programs in captivity, habitat
protection, and public awareness campaigns are some of the strategies used to help conserve this
species.

6. **Behavior:** Pandas are generally solitary animals and are known for their gentle and reserved
behavior. They are skilled climbers and swimmers despite their large size. Pandas have a unique
"thumb" (an extension of the wrist bone) that helps them grasp bamboo.

7. **Reproduction:** Pandas have a relatively low reproductive rate, with females being fertile for only
a few days each year. Breeding in captivity has posed challenges, but successful breeding programs have
been established to increase the panda population.

8. **Symbolism:** The giant panda is an iconic symbol of wildlife conservation and is often used as a
symbol for endangered species. It is also a diplomatic symbol for China, and pandas are sometimes
loaned to other countries as a sign of goodwill.
It's important to note that there is another species referred to as the red panda (Ailurus fulgens), which
is smaller and has reddish-brown fur. Despite the similar name, red pandas are not closely related to
giant pandas and belong to a different family. Red pandas are also arboreal and have a diet that includes
bamboo, fruits, and insects.