Red Panda

Whether the red panda is more closely related to the giant panda or the raccoon has puzzled scientists for years. Made for a life in the trees, the red panda travels through the canopy with ease. Not only is the panda a great climber, it is also an amazing jumper, clearing distances up to five feet. Hair on the bottom of its feet keeps the panda from slipping on branches.

• Red pandas spend up to 13 hours a day foraging for bamboo, eating only the youngest, most tender leaves.
• Pandas have a small, thumb-like bone that sticks out from the wrist that helps them grasp bamboo shoots.
• A thick, furry tail that wraps around its body protects the panda from the chilly weather.