R E D  P A N D A S, A i l u r u s  f u l g e n s

Red pandas are spotted in the Eastern Himalayan forests. Often found in places that include Nepal, Northeastern India, Bhutan, Laos, Myanmar, and some parts of Eastern China. It was actually discovered that red pandas once lived in North America at one point and was dated as far back as 5 million years ago due to the fossils discovered by experts. Red pandas find most comfort in their habitats that are forested with mixed broadleaves and temperate regions with warm summers and cool winter’s also known as coniferous forests. Another indication that red pandas may be living a few meters away is if water reservoirs are spotted nearby. They like to sleep or rest during the day in trees or fallen logs.

 

In several parts of the forests in Asia, the red pandas can expect to receive about 140 inches of rain per year and sometimes get snowfall. Temperatures can reach between 50- 75 degrees on average. If the temperature reaches above 80 degrees, the red pandas are prone to heat stress. If temperatures reach to about 30 degrees in the winter time, the red pandas are well equipped to survive better off than in hot weather because of their coat of fur. When they are overheated, they lay themselves out on a branch with their legs dangling. This allows them to release as much heat as they can from their furry bodies.

 

When foraging for food, they travel on the forest floor near dawn or dusk. During daylight, they prefer to curl up and sleep in the trees. When sleeping or hiding in trees they often gravitate to the ones that are covered in red moss and white lichen to help camouflage them if hiding from predators.