* Low reproductive rate: Giant pandas have a very low reproductive rate. Females typically only give birth to one or two cubs every two years.
* Solitary nature: Giant pandas are solitary animals, except during mating season. Mothers raise their cubs alone for about 18 months.
* Limited resources: Giant pandas have a specific diet, relying almost entirely on bamboo. This limited food source restricts the number of offspring they can support.
So, while a giant panda mother and her cubs form a close family unit, they are not part of large extended families like some other animals.