Ailuridae

The family Ailuridae consists of a single species, the red panda (Ailurus fulgens). This raccoon-like mammal, roughly the size of a large domestic cat, inhabits the mountain forests of the Himalayas and surrounding regions in eastern Asia.1

Red pandas are characterized by their reddish-brown fur, darker underneath, with a white face and a long, bushy tail. They primarily feed on bamboo, fruits, and insects. While once thought to be related to the giant panda, the red panda is now classified as the sole member of its own family. There are two recognized subspecies: the Himalayan red panda and the Chinese red panda, with some scientists suggesting they may even be distinct species due to genetic and morphological differences. These animals are agile climbers and are generally solitary or live in small family groups.1