Although the Panda Bear species is still endangered, conservation efforts appear to be helping. Scientists recently reported that the number of pandas living in the wild may previously have been underestimated and now believe that the wild panda population is as large as 3,000.

Female pandas usually give birth to one or two panda cubs, which are only about the size of a stick of butter. Since the babies need the mother’s undivided attention, she is only able to care for one and usually abandons the other.

99% of the Panda Bear's diet is comprised of bamboo. They spend 12 hours a day eating, consuming 20 to 30 pounds of bamboo shoots.

Pandas can live to be 20-30 years old while living in captivity. Like most subtropical mammals, but unlike most bears, the giant panda does not hibernate.

As people are building more cities and using more natural resources, giant pandas are losing their homes. They are often unable to move to another area and may face starvation. Furthermore, the timber profit gained from harvesting bamboo has destroyed a significant portion of the food supply for the wild panda.

In the 1990s, several laws were enacted to increase the chance of survival for pandas. With the ensued efforts and improved conservation methods, wild pandas have started to increase in numbers in some areas, even though they still are classified as a rare species. Reports show that the numbers of wild panda are on the rise.

In July 2005, the Hong Kong Society for Panda Conservation (HKSPC) merged with the Ocean Park Conservation Foundation (OPCF) to become Ocean Park Conservation Foundation, Hong Kong (OPCFHK). To find out how you can help to save the pandas, please visit their website at www.opcf.org.hk.