Sichuan Panda Sanctuary

While we were in Chengdu we felt we had to go out and visit the Pandas. This is a place where research is curently being carried out on the Panda. With so much of the Panda habitat disappearing they are in real danger of becoming extinct. What a shame that would be. These creatures are so placid and seem content to sit back and munch on their bamboo.

We were impressed by how close we could to the Pandas and had our timing been in line with theirs we could have had the opportunity to hold a young Panda. We were later in the day and we got to wander and enjoy the antics of the different Pandas out in their enclosures. They looked very healthy and most contented. A lot of effort seems to go in to ensuring that they have a good life.

Spot the resemblance! Ruth and one of her friends.

I am sure this one is smiling because he is happy to see us.

So who is watching who, here? I am sure they thought the caucasions were sent out to keep them amused while we there.

This guy looks kind of cute and cuddly sitting up and chewing on his bamboo.

Teenagers behaving like teenagers do this playful fight went on for qutie a while. It resembled tag wrestling with up to four of them involved at a time. I was amazed by how quiet and gentle they were even though they play fighting.

I know of three little boys who used to behave just like this.

Now what would you do if this was racing toward you in the wild?

 The red Pandeas are smaller and I believe that there are a few more of them in the wild but they too are seriously endangered. Their faces are very expressive and they do have more energy.

This one has just realised I was watching him with my camera. I think he stopped just to pose.

I can think of some of my students who look similar to this one.

The red pandas seem to spend more time climbing trees. This one was taking a shortcut using the branches of two trees. He was also very agile as he moved through the trees.