In recent news, giant pandas are no longer under the category of “endangered.” This species has been a concern for more than a decade. Over time, giant pandas have significantly dropped in population size due to climate change and habitat loss. In the 1970’s, the population dropped to around 1,000 which was a cause for conservation efforts globally. To advocate for conservation it is commonly seen to have a panda as an organization’s logo due to their growth over these many years. 

Although pandas are not considered endangered they still shouldn’t be counted out. There are still efforts needing to be done in order to preserve their lives for decades to come. The bears are labeled as “vulnerable” now. One of the main reasons that these pandas are thriving better is due to the Chinese Government. They have made serious efforts to minimize destruction of their habitats. 

Giant pandas have a large role in the forests they thrive in. According to the WWF (World Wide Fund for Nature), “when we protect pandas, we invariably protect other animals that live around them, such as multicolored pheasants, the golden monkey, takin, and crested ibis.” 

This species relies on natural resources in forests. Mainly, their diet consists of bamboo. Every day these pandas should consume up to 80 pounds of bamboo in order to thrive healthily. Pandas spend around 10-13 hours a day consuming food. But, as warmer temperatures arise the risk of low supply of bamboo is a concern. Studies show that over the next 80 years the supply of bamboo is said to drop 35%. This is because of warmer temperatures and weather patterns that are said to disturb the growing process of bamboo. 

Over time, it is important to protect these species as well as the many other that are on the verge of extinction. Conserving energy and protecting the environment will go a long way for these animals.