Red Panda

The Red Panda (Ailurus fulgens) is an arboreal mammal found in the Himalayas, northern India, and southwestern China. The Red Panda is the only living species of the genus Ailurus and the family Ailuridae. Despite this, its numbers have been declining over the years due to reasons including poaching and habitat destruction.

Other names
It is also known as the Lesser Panda.

Description
Red Pandas have long red fur covers the top of their bodies while the underparts of the panda are covered by thick black fur. The pandas have short legs which are also covered by black fur along with thick fur that covers the sole of their paws. They sport roundish faces with each individual possessing distinctive markings on their faces.

Red Pandas also have thick, bushy tails with six alternating yellow to red rings.

Similar species
While possessing two subspecies, the Red Panda is the sole member of both its genus and family.

Diet
Mainly eats bamboo, but may eat honey, fruits, eggs, insects and small rodents as well.

Calls
The Red Panda is generally a quiet animal, but may make twittering or whistling noises for communication.

Reproduction
The Red Panda has a low birthrate with only one to two cubs in a litter.

Distribution/habitat
Red Pandas are endemic to the forests of the Himalayas, but also range through certain provinces of China, Nepal, and India.