1/28/2014

WWF - Why should we save the giant panda?

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Home What We Do Priority Species Panda - Giant About the panda Why save the panda?

What We Do Priority Species Panda - Giant About the panda Habitat: where they live Enemies and defences Eating habits How big, tall, heavy, etc... Breeding and family Life cycle Panda population Evolutionary history FAQ Why save the panda? How many are left in the wild?

Why should we save the giant panda?

First of all, it is important to say that species extinction is a natural process that happens over hundreds of thousands and even millions of years. The problem is the current speed at which species are disappearing. Some experts estimate the rate to be between 100 and 1,000 times higher than the expected natural cycle. This is directly connected to the way we are over-exploiting our planet and is leading to what scientists call: the 6th wave of extinction. More about species extinction

Giant panda habitat, China.

SichuanForestryDepartment

The giant panda

The giant panda is one of these species threatened to be wiped off the planet. Ironically, it is also one better known and loved species in the world and one of the strongest symbols of nature conservation. That is one of the main reasons why they are so important: by mobilizing people to save the panda, we are actually helping preserve the rich biodiversity - plants, landscapes, other animals that need to be there in order for the pandas to survive. The region where pandas live, in the Yangtze Basin and its magnificent forests are home to a stunning array of wildlife such as dwarf blue sheep and beautiful multi-coloured pheasants; as well as a number of other endangered species, including the golden monkey, takin and crested ibis. They also play a crucial role in the bamboo forests where they roam by spreading seeds and facilitating greater growth of the vegetation. The pandas habitat is also home for millions of people. This is the geographic and economic heart of China. By making this area more sustainable, we are also helping to increase the quality of life of local populations. They also bring huge economic benefits to local communities through ecotourism and other activities. Besides all these natural values, pandas have are a very important cultural icon for Chinese people.

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How can we help save the panda?

Although the situation of the Panda is still very delicate, there are good news regarding the recovery of the species, extension of nature reserves and new projects to help people sustainably coexist with pandas. This is the result of joint effort between WWF, goverments, local communities and people like you! See how you can help save the pandas

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1/28/2014

WWF - Why should we save the giant panda?

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