These beautiful giant pandas are noted for their black and white markings. Their legs, shoulders, ears and circular patches around their eyes are black; the remainder of the panda is white.

Pandas usually try to escape predators by climbing trees, a skill at which they are very good. However, pandas may also choose to swim away from predators.

Full-grown pandas typically weigh between 200 and 300 pounds, and can often reach lengths of 6 feet. The average lifespan of a panda in the wild is unknown, as they are very secretive creatures. However, in captivity, pandas usually live to be 20 years old.

Pandas now live in a few very select parts of China where the bamboo, their favorite food, and evergreen trees are thick. Pandas once roamed large areas in China, but as the human population has increased, the area in which a panda can live has decreased. Pandas are very solitary animals, and do not venture into the areas where humans live.

Why Are Pandas Endangered?
Pandas have become endangered for two main reasons. First, the area in which they can safely live has shrunk. Second, they are often hunted for their pelts, which can go for thousands of dollars on the black market.

More Endangered Animals
Gorillas
Bengal Tiger
Nile Crocodile
Hawaiian Monk Seal
American Bison (Buffalo)
Black Rhino

Come back next month to see a brand new endangered animal!