Last Updated on April 13, 2024 by Amin Tawar
What is the national animal of China?
The national animal of China is the giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca). It’s easily recognizable by its bold black and white coat.
- Scientific name: Ailuropoda melanoleuca
- Endemic to China: Giant pandas are found only in bamboo forests in Sichuan, Shaanxi, and Gansu provinces in China.
- Diet: Though classified as a carnivore, their diet is about 95% bamboo. They can eat up to 80 pounds of bamboo a day!
- Black and white coat: Their markings are thought to be a form of camouflage that helps them blend in with shadows and snow.
- Birth rate: Giant pandas are notoriously bad at breeding. In the wild, females only ovulate once a year and are only fertile for 2-3 days.
- Cultural icon: The giant panda is a beloved symbol of China and is featured on their gold panda coins.
