Panda 101 ∣ Monitoring a Released Panda in the Wild

How is a giant panda monitored after it is introduced into the wild?

Each released giant panda wears a GPS collar which provides crucial data on its activities in the natural environment. However, due to size and battery limitations, the collar typically falls off after 1 to 1.5 years. After that, researchers continue monitoring the panda by using infrared cameras, conducting DNA analysis from feces, and studying foraging traces to track its growth and range of activities.

(Photo generated by AI)