Behavior

 

A panda climbing a tree

Picture courtesy of Webshots.com

Pandas have very many strange behavioral traits. For example, panda's don't defend their territory; they don't have enough energy. Pandas are very unique.

Pandas do not hibernate, as many people would assume, because most bears go into a form of hibernation. They migrate farther up in the summer, and farther down in the winter, to reach their preferred climate.

Pandas are solitary animals, but they won't defend their territory. The mark their territory using scent smears and urine, but will not object if another panda crosses the line, as long as it doesn't feel intimidated. A males territory may overlap several females that he can mate with.

During the mating season, male pandas will start to broadcast their presence to potential mates. They may climb a tree and bark or bleat to get attention. Sometimes, two male panda's will fight over the right to mate with a certain female. The dominant male will stand and stare at the other male, with his head bowed so his ears stand out against the white fur on his neck. Then, the dominant male may lash out with a slap from his clawed paw. If the female panda is uninterested, she may climb a tree to escape.

During the mating process, the male may bite the females neck. After mating, the female may try to bite the male. When the pandas are done mating, the female will look for a cave suitable to her liking.

When the female gives birth, she may have from one to three babies, but usually one. At four months, the baby panda can crawl. The young pandas may play on logs, climb trees, and roll down hills. In the winter, they will play in the snow.

Pandas have many strange behaviors. They are a fascinating animal to observe and research.

Back