Is poaching a threat to pandas?

Poaching has historically posed a significant threat to pandas. Driven by the high value of panda pelts, bones, and other body parts on the black market, many pandas have been illegally hunted and killed. For instance, in the early 20th century, hunting and habitat loss reduced the population of giant pandas to as low as 1,000 individuals.

As conservation efforts have improved, anti-poaching measures have also been stepped up. Penalties for poaching pandas are now severe in China, the country where pandas primarily reside. Additionally, China has established extensive panda reserves and increased wildlife patrols to protect pandas from poachers. This has significantly contributed to the recovery of the panda population in recent years.