"Red pandas are often killed when they get caught in traps meant for other animals such as wild pigs and deer. They are also poached for their distinctive pelts in China and Myanmar. Red panda fur caps or hats have been found for sale in Bhutan."
What's a red panda?
The red panda, or lesser panda, is a small plant-eating bear related to the great panda. They are about the size of a house cat, or a bit bigger. They, like the great panda, eat bamboo. However, the red panda is decidedly less picky, and also has a diet of fruits and vegetables, including acorns and roots. A thumb-like extension of the wrist aids them in grasping said foods.
Like the great panda, lesser pandas also share similar habitats, such as high-altitude rainforest in south-east Asia. Specifically, the red panda lives in Nepal, Myanmar, and some areas of China.
Why are they endangered?
Red pandas make a habit of residing in trees, sleeping in trees, foraging in trees, and generally being around trees. Due to deforestation, they are rapidly losing homes, foraging grounds, and comfortable environments.
Adult red pandas usually live alone and stay away from others of their species. They naturally live distantly from each other, and although it is possible to keep them in captivity together, they should have the solitude they deserve.
Red pandas are also poached for their beautiful coats, which include orange backs, white underbellies, and a multi-colored face.
Why should we help?
Does this answer your question?
But in all seriousness, species should never go extinct because that lowers animal diversity and disrupts the food and resource chains, both of which are important to keep as wide as possible and not be majorly changed, respectively.
How can we help?
As I researched this species mostly on WWF, I think it's only natural I should support their website on this post. You can go to World Wildlife Fund to spiritually adopt a red panda, or directly donate to them on the same website.
Sources:
The World Wildlife Fund is an organization to help endangered animals and stop any harm to the environment. They provide information about the animal, why they're endangered, why we should help, and more.
(www.worldwildlife.org)
National Geographic is a organization to provide detailed and credible information about all types of species. They also provide videos and images, and more.
(www.nationalgeographic.com)
