WWF - Is the giant panda a bear?

Is the giant panda a bear?

Posted on 01 May 2009 |

The giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca) is a member of the bear family, but with some very unique characteristics:

Pandas have the same digestive system of a carnivore, but they are adapted to a vegetarian diet of bamboo.
Pandas do not hibernate, altough they often relocate to lower altitudes in the winter and spring.
With its unique black and white coat, the panda looks like no other bear.
Giant pandas are able to climb trees very well.

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