Do Pandas Have Tails?

Yes, giant pandas do have tails, and the color and thickness of their tails vary greatly from small to large.

1. Changes in Panda Tail
The newborn panda is pink in color, resembling a small mouse in appearance and size. Newborn panda's tail is slender and has sparse white fur on its surface. At this point, its small body can highlight the presence of its tail, which can reach a length of 1/4 of its body length.

New born panda's tail
About a month after birth, the panda cub has grown into a crawling black and white ball, and its tail has grown thick white hair. At first glance, it blends seamlessly with its round body.
Panda cub' s tail

As they age, the length of pandas' tails is limited compared to their body, but their width increases. The slender tails gradually transform into wide, flat, and short tails (anus curtains). Compared to their large bodies, tails less than 1/10 of their body length are quite inconspicuous, leading to their often overlooked existence.

2. Panda Tail: Short But Useful
Although pandas usually have their tails hanging low and tightly attached to their buttocks, and cannot swing their tails like cats and dogs to express emotions, their tails occupy a significant position in their world.

Pandas' tails have a hairless exposed area at the base, which is where the perianal glands are located. They will use a flat, brush like tail to apply perianal gland secretions for odor labeling, thereby achieving communication with other giant pandas. Silent communication is comparable to verbal communication.

Panda is preparing to shit
In conclusion, pandas do have a tail. Although the short tail of a panda cannot swing, it frequently raises its tail every day. If you see a giant panda with its tail straight up and not moving, don't doubt it, it is likely preparing to shit.

Pics from iPanda, Pandapia

Back to blog

Leave a comment