Red pandas are mammals that live in the Eastern Himalayas, and prefer to reside in trees. These mammals can live about 8-10 years, and sometimes even longer. They don’t get much bigger than a cat, but they are skilled at climbing and swinging from trees. There are two distinct species of red pandas- the Himalayan red panda and the Chinese red panda.

Are they pandas? A type of cat? A raccoon, maybe? Well, National Geographic says red pandas have been debated heavily for this very reason. “…Taxonomists previously assigned them to both the raccoon family and the bear family, but DNA research later revealed that they belong to their own unique family (Ailuridae)…” 

Red pandas are technically omnivores, but they mainly eat plants such as bamboo. Smithsonian’s national zoo & conservation says, “Red pandas share the giant panda’s pseudo-thumb, a modified wrist bone used to grasp bamboo when feeding.” This being said, they will also kill birds and other small animals. 

They are a solitary species, only coming together to mate. During the winter, red pandas will use their fluffy tails to stay warm. The Smithsonian goes on to mention that red pandas are reported to be more active in the winter and cooler temperatures.