The Panda Problem

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The Panda Problem

It seems that one of the biggest issues of our time is the population of the Panda. Their entire population is estimated to be less than 2,500 in nature. Their future would only be one of the most uncertain and doubtful, only if it WAS NOT for human interaction. That's right. Sure, it is true that some of the reason's for the panda's jeopardy come from the poaching of the animal (which is now illegal) and more importantly, the deforestation of their habitat. Even so, it is important to remember that human interference is one of the primary reasons that the panda's future is starting to look better. The panda is now recognized as a national treasure in China and many initiatives have been taken to help them flourish.

One of the panda's biggest problems is their diet. They prefer bamboo, but unfortunately after it flowers, the bamboo dies back. This means that there is nothing left for the panda to it, so they must find another patch of bamboo for food.

Fortunately, the chinese government with the help of the international community has created over "50 panda reserves protecting more than 2.5 million acres - over 45 percent of remaining giant panda habitat – protecting more than 60 percent of the population" (WWF) . Protecting over 60 percent of the population means that we recognize that we have to put all of our resources into helping these rare one of a kind animals.

Not only are we protecting the existing population, but we are also encouraging its growth. The Wolong Nature Reserve in China's Sichuan province is an example this. The reserve is home to about 100 cubs, but the bigger accomplishment is what they have achieved in terms of breeding them. In 1986, the first panda cub was born at the reserve. Just recently, in 2006, they bred around 30 cubs. when the estimated population of this species is around 2000, 30 cubs is already a large number.

This cause is not some unimportant afterthought, it's a earnest attempt on our part to fix a problem that we caused. Organizations like WWF, whose logo is a panda, are only one of many who prioritize this special animal. As much damage as we may have done, there would be no hope for these exceptional creatures if we hadn't stepped in and interfered.

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