Endangered Species
November 152009
Name:
Red Panda
Scientific Name:
Ailurus fulgens
Status:
Endangered
Scientific Classification:
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Mammalia
Order: Carnivora
Family: Ailuridae
Genus: Ailurus
Species: A. fulgens
General Information:
The red panda, also known as the lesser panda, is an endemic species of Asia. It is a small creature that resembles a raccoon, except with reddish fur. It is an endangered species, with an estimated population of less than 2,500 mature animals remaining. It is still under the continued threat of habitat fragmentation.
Physical Description:
It is slightly larger than a domestic cat at about 31 - 47 inches in length, with its tail accounting for 12 - 24 inches, and weighing around 6.6 - 13 lbs. The red panda has a long bushy tail that is banded in light, yellowish-red rings. Its coat is primarily reddish-brown, with its lower parts being more blackish in color. Its face is highlighted by white patches similar to the markings of a raccoon, and its ears are white. And, like the giant panda or purported relation, it also has a "false thumb" that helps it to eat.
Diet:
The red panda's diet consists mostly of bamboo, and like the the giant panda, it cannot digest cellulose. Thus, it must consume a large amount of bamboo to survive. In addition to bamboo, which accounts for about 2/3 of its diet, the red panda also eats fruits, roots, grasses, eggs, insects, and even small rodents.
Habitat:
It prefers forested mountain regions, often sharing habitats with the giant panda. It can be found in Nepal, China, Bhutan, India, and Burma.
Reproduction:
Mating season for the red panda occurs from the end of December to the middle of February. Gestation usually lasts around 112- 158 days, after which time the female gives birth to 1 - 4 cubs. Red pandas reach sexual maturity at about 18 months of age, and are fully mature at 2 - 3 years of age.
endangered animals
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