Pandas are one of the most adorable animals on our planet. However, it would be in your best interest to not forget that they can be extremely dangerous at times. Going solely on their kind and cute look might result in your getting extremely hurt.
While pandas are generally docile animals, they are still bears. Therefore, when provoked, they can definitely be quite dangerous. If the panda senses a threat in its surrounding areas or simply has been annoyed by something, it can very easily attack humans. Do not make the mistake of taking them for their height. While still small, they can cause some real damage.
Would a Panda Attack a Human?
Most times a panda attacks a human, it comes from a place of self defense. Pandas are unlikely to approach people dangerously unprompted unless they’ve been bothered or annoyed by them. Another scenario where pandas might attack humans is if they sense that they are posing a threat to their young. In this case, they will go on the defensive and attack humans. This attack could perhaps even result in death as their claws are extremely dangerous and can cause real damage.
While it is rather rare, pandas can definitely be on the offensive and attack humans. While there are no cases of pandas killing humans while fighting on the offensive, there are multiple cases of attacks. Their bites are extremely dangerous and can result in lost limbs and other severe injuries. They also have retractable claws within their paws that can cause some serious damage to human skin.
What Makes Pandas Dangerous to Humans
There are different physicalities of pandas that make them dangerous when provoked. Here in this article, we will be exploring exactly these physicalities.
Sharp Teeth
Pandas have massive canine teeth that can tear through flesh with a lot of ease. Apart from this, the size of their teeth is quite significant. Their teeth are almost seven times larger than human teeth. This makes it easy for them to rip through meat without hesitation. Their teeth are formed like this so they can easily chew through bamboo sticks without trouble.
Strong Claws
Pandas have retractable claws in their paws. These claws allow them to climb bamboo shoots in order to find sustenance. Therefore, it is reasonable to assume that these claws are quite sturdy. Their claws allow them to easily tear through skin within minutes. One swipe from their claws can prove to be extremely damaging to human flesh and skin.
Strong Grip
Pandas have strong teeth and strong claws that have incredible gripping powers. This grip allows them to hold onto food like bamboo sticks and also helps them attack better. If someone has threatened them or their young, they can not only attack people at first contact but also hold onto the attacker in order to inflict more damage.
Pandas are Carnivores
Pandas are carnivorous creatures. This means their stomachs still are able to digest meat. Even though they do not actively eat meat, they still have the capability to harm humans and other animals when threatened. Therefore, this is something that should be kept in mind when interacting with pandas.
Aggressiveness
Pandas are mostly docile animals. However, they can easily get aggressive. This is especially true for pandas that have been kept in confinement. An example of this is those that are kept in zoos. The restriction in their movements can make it very easy for them to get aggressive and upset. This is also true for wild pandas. Therefore, it is reasonable to conclude that they can be quite dangerous when upset.
In Comparison to Other Bears
When compared to other bears, pandas are seen as the least dangerous. While this is a fact, it is still important to stay mindful when around them in order to ensure your safety as well as the safety of others around you.
How to Stay Safe from Pandas
There are different ways to ensure you stay safe from pandas and their attacks. Here are some mentioned below.
- Carry bear spray if you intend to go hiking. If you see a panda, have the spray ready to use in case of an emergency.
- Do NOT run if you encounter a wild panda. Instead, slowly back away as you continue talking to it.
- Try to make as much noise as possible if you’re hiking. You may do this by hitting rocks with objects. This will alert nearby pandas and other bears so they may avoid you.
- If you are deciding to camp, ensure you cook food away from where you sleep as the smell of food will definitely attract pandas and other bears to where you’re staying.
- If you are in a zoo, the best way to avoid a confrontation with a panda is by staying away from their enclosure. Do NOT climb fences in order to get closer as any kind of physical threat will alert them.
It is important to be mindful of all of these instructions in order to avoid the risk of getting seriously harmed by a panda or even losing your life.
Conclusion
Pandas are known as docile animals. However, when provoked, they may cause significant harm to all parties involved. Their sharp claws, teeth, as well as their fine grip can put you in trouble. In order to avoid upsetting pandas or causing them to be aggressive, try and stay away from their enclosures. You must also remain calm if you find yourself in front of a panda or any other bear to ensure maximum chances of survival.
