1. Declining Population of
Giant Pandas
“Despite being universally loved and the symbol of a nation, the giant
panda’s future remains uncertain.” –World Wildlife Fund

2. Population in the Wild
Estimated only 1,600 Giant Pandas living in the wild
Low enough to be place on the Endangered Species list
Only 980 of the Giant Pandas in the wild (61%) are under
protection in reserves
Fortunately, population numbers have slightly increased
recently and are remaining steady
Population numbers are still TOO LOW, WHY??

3. Reason #1: Habitat Loss
Due to the growing human population in China (1.3 billion),
Giant Pandas are now restricted to some 20 isolated patches
of forest above 1,200m on 6 mountain ranges in
Southwestern China
Populations were once widespread in Southern and Eastern
China
Between 1974-1989, Giant Pandas have lost 50% of their
already vastly reduced habitat

4. Reason #2: Illegal Trade
In the 1980s and 1990s, there were many cases of panda
poaching.
Have declined due to strict laws and greater public awareness of
the panda’s protected status.
Unintentionally injured or killed in illegal traps and snares
set for other animals

5. Reason #3: Bamboo ‘die-back’
Natural phenomenon occurring every 15-120 years,
depending on the type of bamboo
Once the bamboo dies it can take a year to regenerate from
seed
Can take as long as 20 years before the new plant can support a
Giant Panda population
Human settlements have formed a barrier against Giant
Panda movements and prevent them from finding areas
where bamboo is still plentiful