Pandas

The name "panda" applies to two different species: the familiar and well-loved giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca), and the lesser-known red panda (Ailurus fulgens). Scientists originally thought the two species were closely related because of similarities in their behavior, diet, anatomy, and distribution. However, despite these shared characters of the pandas, researchers have now determined that the two species are not related as closely as was previously thought.