Giant pandas are generally calm, gentle, and solitary animals. They usually spend much of their time alone rather than living in large groups. A panda may slowly walk through the forest, climb trees, rest, or search for bamboo. They have a strong sense of smell and use scents and sounds to communicate with other pandas.
Pandas spend a large part of their day eating bamboo because bamboo provides relatively little energy. They may sit upright while using their powerful paws to hold and peel bamboo stems and leaves. After eating, they often rest or sleep to conserve energy. Although they look slow and relaxed, pandas can climb trees well and can move quickly when necessary.
Giant pandas are usually peaceful but can defend themselves when they feel threatened. Mothers are especially protective of their cubs. Pandas communicate through sounds such as bleats, growls, and squeaks, as well as through scent marking. During the breeding season, pandas may become more active as they search for a mate.
🐼 Panda Behavior
Learn how giant pandas behave, communicate, eat, rest, and interact with their environment.
Calm and Mostly Solitary
Giant pandas are generally calm and solitary animals. They usually spend much of their time alone rather than living in large groups. A panda may slowly walk through the forest, climb trees, rest, or search for bamboo. Pandas have a strong sense of smell and use scents and sounds to communicate with other pandas.
Eating and Resting
Pandas spend a large part of their day eating bamboo because bamboo provides relatively little energy. They often sit upright while using their powerful paws to hold and peel bamboo stems and leaves. After eating, pandas frequently rest or sleep to conserve energy. Although they look slow and relaxed, pandas can climb trees well and can move quickly when necessary.
Communication and Protection
Giant pandas are usually peaceful, but they can defend themselves when they feel threatened. Mother pandas are especially protective of their cubs. Pandas communicate through different sounds, including bleats, growls, and squeaks. They also use scent marking to communicate information to other pandas. During the breeding season, pandas may become more active as they search for a mate.
A panda’s peaceful appearance does not mean it should be approached or touched. Wild pandas are powerful animals and should always be observed from a safe distance by trained wildlife professionals.
Want to learn more about caring for and understanding pandas?
Read the Panda Care Ebook
