How can giant pandas be saved from extinction?
Answer… Habitat destruction and fragmentation is the biggest threat to the giant panda. Unless its habitat is consciously expanded, the panda will remain endangered. When bamboo periodically dies off as part of its renewal cycle, pandas have to be provided with access to newer, unaffected areas. This could be done by strengthening the capacity of China’s 32 panda reserves and by developing connecting corridors between key reserves, to help reduce isolation and fragmentation. Effective enforcement of law (revised Chinese law can penalize panda poachers with over ten years’ imprisonment) will ensure safety for the panda from poachers. Recent research has shown that though the giant panda may live longer in captivity, breeding success is greater in the wild. Protecting pandas in their natural habitat is indisputably the highest priority for conservation of this internationally known and loved but highly endangered species.
