The Wolong Nature Reserve in China’s southwestern Sichuan province, panda conservationalists were thrilled at the results of their 2006 breeding program, with no less than 16 totally adorable pandas born this year (see pic above).
The Sichuan Wolong Nature Reserve, China’s largest artificial breeding centre, implement many of the programs of Pandas International, the largest organization dedicated solely to the giant panda, considered to be among some of the most endangered animals in the world, with only around 1,000 left in the wild.
Pandas International supports panda nature reserves in their native China through medical research, breeding programs, veterinary care, medicine and medical equipment. Pandas International also focuses on habitat preservation and education programs to increase public awareness of the panda as a highly endangered species.
Part of the Independent Charities of America, the website of Pandas International is a great resource to get ideas on how to help. If you have children (who I am sore will have a soft spot for these cuddly animals), a kit can be purchased for $25 which can help them and their friends or class do a fun fundraising project to help save the pandas.
The website also has a shopping area with all sorts of both useful and fun panda items – proceeds of which go to help the pandas. A good way to start Christmas shopping!
Originally posted on November 21, 2006 @ 11:30 am