Description

80 illustrations. This concise and informative volume discusses the fascinating and evocative history and habits of the panda, the gentle giant that is among the world s most endangered species. The controversy over whether the panda is a bear or a raccoon is explored, along with comparison photos of well-known bear species and the lessor panda which is classified by scientists as a raccoon. Panda behaviour is discussed, including foraging, eating, sleeping, reproduction, and parenting, as well as the problems faced by pandas in captivity. Featuring 80 full-color photographs made in the panda s last remaining habitats in the bamboo forests of western and southwestern China, a clear view of this intriguing animal s life in the wild is seen.