Giant Panda

At one time, the greatest threat to the giant panda's survival was man, who hunted it for its pelt. Today the principal cause of its decline is the erosion of its habitat due to crop cultivation or from natural causes such as die-back of bamboo. As its natural habitat becomes increasingly surrounded by human settlement, the panda can no longer migrate to unaffected areas. The Chinese people now support any measures necessary for the panda's protection. As a result, those caught hunting the animal face severe penalties. Special sanctuaries have been established in the panda's natural habitat with enough space for 500 to 600 animals. Scientists are studying the animal's habits and instituting a comprehensive conservation program. Zoos are also collaborating in the development of a captive breeding project.

The giant panda creates a secretion from the anal glands and then rubs this onto tree trunks and rocks. This secretion is a dark, thick and sticky substance which can't be removed without a lot of hard work. A panda will leave a mark to advertise she is in heat and ready to reproduce or to mark territory. Another panda can tell a lot from a scent mark, including the gender, age, mood and reproductive status. A panda will use a variety of positions to scent mark, this includes a head stand, leg cock, or squatting.

The tiny newborn panda cub is blind; it is six inches long and weighs only three ounces. It stays with its mother for 18 months, until it is independent enough to establish its own territory.