Why Endangered?

Red Panda sniffing a flower

 

The Red Panda was officially listed as endangered in 1996 by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The main reason red pandas are endangered is due to deforestation. Their natural habitat is being demolished by people wishing to spread agriculture and logging. The plants that the red panda must eat to maintain its lifestyle and reproduction cycle have been reduced by habitat loss and global warming. Also red pandas were once hunted for their fur which is very valuable.

This video will help to understand why red pandas are endangered.

A sad Red Panda

Red pandas are also often killed when they get caught in traps meant for other animals such as deer and wild pigs. They are even poached for their distinctive pelts in China and Myanmar. Red panda fur hats and caps have been found for sale in Bhutan. It is estimated that fewer than 2,500 red pandas remain in the wild.

Red Panda Poaching