Giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca)
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IUCN Red List Assessments
The Fourth National Survey (2011-2014) estimates the Giant Panda population at 1,864, with 9.6% cubs and 50.5% mature adults.[1] While the species meets Vulnerable criteria due to its small population size and fragmentation, recent data suggest a stabilisation and increase in population.[1] Conservation efforts have expanded habitat, yet climate change threatens bamboo, vital to the Panda's survival.[1] Despite a positive down-listing to Vulnerable, continued conservation efforts are vital to safeguard this iconic species against emerging threats.[1]
- 2016 — Vulnerable (VU)
- 2008 — Endangered (EN)
- 1996 — Endangered (EN)
- 1994 — Endangered (E)
- 1990 — Endangered (E)
- 1988 — Rare (R)
- 1986 — Rare (R)
- 1965 — "Very rare but believed to be stable or increasing" [1]
Summary of the 2016 IUCN Assessment
- The Fourth National Survey (2011-2014) estimated a Giant Panda population of 1,864, excluding young <1.5 years old.
- Demographic data suggests the total population could be around 2,060, with mature adults comprising approximately 1,040.
- The species meets criteria for Vulnerable due to a small population size.
- Fragmentation into subpopulations, each with fewer than 1,000 adults, poses a concern under criteria C2.
- Recent surveys indicate a stabilisation and increase in the population.
- Increased habitat availability supports population growth, but climate change threatens bamboo habitats.
- Despite down-listing to Vulnerable, continued conservation efforts are crucial to mitigate emerging threats.[1]