The Giant Panda is on the endangered species list. As development and deforestation take their toll on the panda's natural habitat, the animals have migrated into higher, mountainous regions, where their primary food source, bamboo, grows less densely.

First thought to be a relative of the raccoon, a Giant panda is, in fact, a member of the Ursine family. Though it still retains teeth capable of masticating meat, it is largely herbivorous.

Much of what is known about pandas is not due to study of the species in the wild, but rather the study of animals in captivity. Long a symbol of China's peaceful philosophy, healthy specimens are often sent abroad as gestures of goodwill. They have become goodwill ambassadors in what is globally known as 'Panda Diplomacy'. 26 Giant Pandas reside in captivity outside China. Many have given birth to several dozen Panda cubs, rendering zoo breading programs key to the survival of the species.