If you are a lover of the panda bear, then you will obsess over this Eastern Himalayan tree-dweller. The red panda, oftentimes referred to as the “lesser panda”, does not have a black and white coat like its larger relative, the panda. Instead, the red panda is predominantly red (with accents of white) in color. The red panda resembles a small bear and has a long, bushy tail—similar to that of yet another close relative, the raccoon. Although the red panda is closely related to both the panda and the raccoon, it belongs to its own family—the Ailuridae.This nocturnal mammal survives mainly on the tender shoots and the leaves of the bamboo plant; however, the red panda will also consume insects and fruit. During the coldest months of the year, the red panda uses its fluffy tail as a throw-blanket to keep warm. This adorable mammal also uses its special tail as a balancing aid whilst climbing trees in the Eastern Himalayas and in Southwestern China. The red panda is slightly larger than a common house cat in size; however, while cats can be kept as pets, keeping the red panda as a pet is not recommended. The red panda, or “red bear-cat”, can be aggressive in nature and even quite vicious if provoked. The red panda is better left in the wild where it can do its part in sustaining a healthy temperate forest environment. Deforestation has had a devastating effect on the red panda population—so much so, that the red panda is now considered an endangered species. In order to preserve the red panda population, Red Panda Network has introduced a project to better educate individuals about the importance of the protection of the red panda’s natural habitat. This project aims to reforest deforested areas by planting bamboo (the red panda’s main food source), as well as replenishing vital water sources. The Red Panda Network is based both in the United States and in Nepal. To donate to their project, visit www.redpandanetwork.org .

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