Species · GBIF taxon 5219446
Ailurus fulgens
ailurus fulgensAlso known as Lesser Panda, Red Cat-Bear, Firefox
Red pandas spend most of their lives in trees, using their long, bushy tails for balance and as blankets to stay warm in high-altitude forests. They possess a specialized false thumb, an extension of the wrist bone, which helps them grip bamboo stems with remarkable dexterity. These solitary mammals are most active at dawn and dusk, navigating the dense canopy with agile climbs and leaps.
ArborealCrepuscularSolitary
Licensed reference(c) S.Brickman, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA) · cc-by-sa
- diet
- Folivore (primarily bamboo shoots and leaves, supplemented by fruit, acorns, and occasionally eggs or insects)
- family
- Ailuridae
- threats
- Habitat loss and fragmentation, poaching, climate change, and disease transmission from domestic dogs
- life Span
- 8 to 15 years in the wild, up to 22 years in captivity
EN
Sharp claws and teeth can cause injury if cornered; observe from a safe distance.
Listed as Endangered due to severe habitat fragmentation, poaching, and accidental trapping.
Never attempt to touch or feed wild individuals, and stick to designated trails to protect their habitat.- Keep your distance: Maintain a respectful distance to avoid causing stress to these shy animals.
- Look up: Scan the mid-canopy and tree forks where they sleep during the day.
- Listen closely: Listen for quiet whistling or twittering sounds used to communicate.