Pandas - Chengdu, China

We visited the 'Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding' that was established to promote breeding of this endangered species that has existed for 8 million years. The facility includes large expanses of natural yet protected habitat where pandas roam and feed, as well as designated feeding areas, mating areas and birthing areas. Adult pandas eat up to 42 kgs per day of mainly bamboo shoots plus some fruits and vegetables. Newborn baby pandas weigh only 1/1000th their adult weight and look like a small pink mouse when they are born.