The Giant Panda, for years, it was believed to be a type of raccoon, like the red panda. However, genetic tests and observation have revealed that the panda is in fact, a bear. It has several types of adaptations that make it unusual. Firstly is the fact that it has six digits on the front paws, giving it an opposable thumb ideal for holding onto the stalks of bamboo which it consumes in large amounts. The genitalia of the male are rear pointing and small which is also decidedly un-bear like and much like those of the red panda. Since 1995 the Giant Panda has been officially considered a bear.

Typically pandas have a large head and distinct white and black coloring that contrasts sharply with the deep green of their natural habitat.

Pandas can be found in six tiny regions in southwest China. These places are along the Tibetan plateau in Sichuan, Gansu, and Shaanzi provinces. Combined, these areas are less than 5,400 square miles of very high altitude (4,000-11,500 ft.) mountain forests grown thick with patches of more than 30 species of bamboo.

The bears have home ranges from 1.8 to 3.3 square miles. The territories of the males sometimes overlap those of a number of females.Newborn pandas weigh between 3 and 5 ounces. Males grow to 190-275 pounds and 64-76 inches in length, with females being slightly smaller and lighter at 155-220 pounds.

They reach sexual maturity between ages 4 1/2 to 6 1/2 years and mate once during the spring months of March, April, and May. The females are in estrus for anywhere from 1 to 3 weeks, but are only really receptive for a few days of that time. During August and September, pregnant females give birth to one to three cubs, with one being the more common. The cubs are weaned at nine months, but often stay with their mothers for more than two years.Like most bears, pandas are solitary animals. Females with cubs are the only exception. They mark their territories by scratching trees and by rubbing a musky anogenital gland against rocks and trees.

Additionally, they communicate with different vocalizations (making sounds). Scientists have identified 11 distinct calls, but cannot identify the exact function of all of them.

Pandas are quite vegetarian, bamboo makes up 99% of their diet. Adults can eat anywhere between 26 and 33 pounds of it a day, and with soft new shoots up to 84 pounds. That's almost 40% of their body weight! Sometimes they consume meat and some other plants.