With surprising habits and a unique aspect, these animals enchant the world and are symbols of conservation and delicacy in nature
The Panda, popularly known as panda in wax, are family mammals Ursidae And they originate in Chinese mountains, especially in the Sichuan, Shaanxi and Gansu regions. With their surprising black and white coat and their quiet way, they became one of the most admired animals in the world. In addition to being considered a national symbol of China, they also represent environmental conservation efforts on a global scale.
These animals arouse curiosity for their unusual characteristics, such as the diet based almost exclusively on bamboo, although they are classified as carnivores and for their peculiar way of moving and interacting with the environment. Behind the cute appearance, the Panda have complex behaviors, involving survival strategies well adapted to theirs Natural habitat.
So, take a look at some fascinating curiosities about the Panda!
1. Bamboo diet requires constant effort
Even if they are carnivores By biological classification, the Panda feed almost exclusively on bamboo. This plant represents about 99% of the diet of these animals, which consume between 12 and 38 kg per day, depending on the season and available type.
This is because bamboo is low in nutrients and panda must eat large quantities to get enough energy. In addition, their teeth and the digestive system are adapted to grind and process this fibrous food.
2. The “sixth finger” is essential for food
Panda developed a unique adaptation: an elongated bone on the wrist, known as “false thumb”. It acts as an extra finger, allowing them to contain carefully bamboo stalks. This function is essential for Panda’s survival, as it facilitates food manipulation, making the food process more efficient.
3. Panda puppies were born small and defenseless
At birth, a Panda puppy weighs about 90 to 130 grams, which is less than 0.1% of the mother’s weight, which can reach 120 kg. This disproportion is one of the greatest of the mammals. The puppy was born blind, without hair and completely dependent on the mother, who breastfeeds and heats up for about three months before starting to explore the environment. The high vulnerability of the puppies makes the first months of life a delicate period for the survival of the species.
4. The coat has functions beyond aesthetics
The famous coat The black and white of the Panda is not just to make them adorable. It is believed that the white of the help in camouflage in snow environments, while black serves to absorb the heat and as a visual communication mechanism. The stains around the eyes, for example, help the Panda to recognize and intimidate other animals and possibly reduce the reflection of the sun, improve vision.
5. Panda are naturally lonely
In the wild environment, the Panda prefer to live alone. Each animal has its territory, which can reach tens of square kilometers. They use olfactory signs such as signs of urine and glandular secretions to delimit their area and avoid encounters with other Panda. Social contact occurs only during the short reproductive period, when males and females meet to mate.
6. They are excellent climbers and swimmers
Despite the clumsy appearance, the pandas are quite agile when necessary. From young people, they showed the ability to climb the trees, which is useful for protecting themselves from predators or finding rest places. Furthermore, they know how to swim easily, which allows rivers and lakes within their territory. These skills are important to ensure mobility in search of food or refuge.
7. The red panda is a distant relative
Red Panda, despite the name, does not belong to the same family as the giant Panda. It is genetically closer to Procioni and files than bears. With reddish coat, smaller body and long tail and ring, he also lives the forests of the Himalaya and southern China. Just like the giant panda, he forage Mainly bamboo, but also consumes fruit, insects and eggs.
8. Silent and efficient communication from the smell
The Panda do not emit many sounds to communicate. Instead, they use olfactory signs to transmit important information such as presence, sex and reproductive state. These signs are left on trees, stones and ground, thanks to the glands located near the tail. This form of communication helps the Panda to avoid conflicts and facilitates the encounter between males and females at the time of mating.
9. They are global conservation symbols
The giant panda is one of the most emblematic animals in the world when it comes to nature conservation. Since 1961, it is the official symbol of the WWF (World Wildlife Fund), highlighting the importance of the conservation of biodiversity. The international efforts for the protection of the natural habitat of the panda and captivity reproduction programs have been able to increase the population of the species, which is no longer considered in danger but still vulnerable.
10. Head of reproduction requires a lot of technology and patience
Panda females enter the heat only once a year, for a period of two or three days, which makes reproduction difficult. In captivity, experts monitor hormones and behavior to identify the exact moment of ovulation. Artificial insemination is often used to ensure fertilization. After birth, the puppies receive intensive care to guarantee their healthy development.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
