Maybe I can get a Stick

Ailuropoda melanoleuca

For many decades the precise taxonomic classification of the Giant Panda was under debate because it shares characteristics of both bears and raccoons. However, molecular studies suggest that the Giant Panda is a true bear and part of the Ursidae family, though it differentiated early in history from the main ursine stock. The Giant Panda's closest ursine relative is the Spectacled Bear of South America. The Giant Panda has been referred to as a living fossil.

 

Despite the shared name, habitat type, and diet, as well as a unique enlarged bone called the pseudo thumb (which helps them grip the bamboo shoots they eat), the Giant Panda and Red Panda are only distantly related. Molecular studies have placed the Red Panda in its own family Ailuridae, and not under Ursidae.

 

Su Lin is the third panda to be born at the San Diego Zoo. Her parents are Bai Yun and Gao Gao. Following Chinese tradition, she was given her name at 100 days of age.

 

Now out on her own in the panda exhibit daily, Su Lin has grown into a confident panda. Watch her daily on Panda Cam!

 

Female

Born: August 2, 2005, San Diego Zoo

Weight in September 2008: 161–165 pounds (73–75 kilograms)

 

San Diego Zoo-San Diego Ca.

Done