Although giant pandas (Ailuropoda melanoleuca) have lived in China for millions of years and were known in some regions since antiquity, there are no known unmistakable depictions of giant pandas in surviving Chinese art before the late 19th or early 20th century. Pandas are carnivores yet live almost entirely on plants. Giant pandas belong to the bear family and have the digestive system of a carnivore, yet about 99% of their diet is bamboo. We are talking about a large animal surviving on low-energy food. A powerful bear with a gentle lifestyle. And a species once considered evolutionarily puzzling. For many years, scientists debated whether pandas were more closely related to bears or raccoons because they share characteristics with both. Modern DNA evidence has shown that they are true bears though. Pandas aren't just cute: they are a living paradox. So lets investigate pandas further. Why don't pandas feature in Chinese art pre-19th century? Several factors may explain ...
Follow the Clues. Challenge the Narrative.