giant panda

Scientific name: Ailuropuda melanoleuca

You may have never seen the back of a panda before, but it’s instantly recognisable! Its distinct form conjures associations with beloved representations like Kung Fu Panda and the WWF logo. The panda is considered an “Ambassador Species”, a powerful symbol of environmental concerns that resonates both literally and metaphorically.

Giant pandas (Ailuropuda melanoleuca) have inspired films, plush toys, and a significant boost in national tourism, earning their status as a national treasure and an international emblem for wildlife. They charm audiences in China and around the world. However, despite the fortunes spent on their protection, thousands of less charismatic species continue to slip silently toward extinction each year. As the world’s biodiversity faces increasing threats, many experts argue that there are more effective ways to allocate limited conservation resources.

Are giant pandas, then, victims of their own success? Their iconic status draws attention and funding, but it raises questions about the broader implications for less glamorous species that also deserve protection. Balancing the need to safeguard charismatic megafauna with the urgency of preserving entire ecosystems is crucial for a sustainable future in conservation.

Learn more about the More than Human exhibition.