Red Pandas

61cm x 50cm
Cobra water mixable oils on textured board.

Also known as the Lesser Panda, these small mammals are native to the forest areas of the Himalayas.
They are well adapted to climbing trees having hairy pads on their feet as well as curved, semi-retractable claws. They are not related to the Giant Panda, but have a close affinity with racoons.
Like the Giant Panda they feed mainly on bamboo shoots, but supplement this diet with fruit and roots.
I saw several of them last year during a visit to Beekse Bergen animal park in Hilverenbeek.
Unfortunately this species is threatened by deforestation.

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