A quick burst all about…
A Red Panda (image courtesy of Unsplash Image)
Red pandas are small, furry animals that bare a charming resemblance to a mix between a raccoon and a fox, but interestingly, they are not closely related to either of these creatures at all! These elusive creatures live high up in the dense, misty trees of the Himalayas and various parts of China. They skillfully use their long, bushy tails not only to maintain balance as they navigate the treetops but also to wrap around themselves to keep warm during the colder, chillier weather.
One particularly fascinating and unusual fact about red pandas is that they use their front paws almost like hands, thanks to a special bone structure that functions much like a thumb, which allows them to expertly grasp and manipulate bamboo, their absolute favorite food.
Although they primarily consume plants, red pandas actually belong to the carnivora order, meaning they are more closely related to meat-eating animals than to herbivores.
Additionally, these creatures mark their territory with a strong, smelly scent that many people find distinctive and often describe as having an aroma somewhat reminiscent of popcorn.
