In addition to foraging and resting, giant pandas exhibit behaviors such as climbing trees, grooming, scratching, marking territory, vocalizing, and interacting with their young. Their behavior also changes with the seasons. Throughout the year, wild giant pandas are most active in late winter and early spring, with the lowest activity levels in summer. The behavior of captive giant pandas generally mirrors that of their wild counterparts.
Different age stages, seasons, and genders result in varied behaviors among giant pandas. To gain a more accurate understanding of these behaviors, further observational and descriptive studies are necessary.
Captive giant panda facilities implement positive reinforcement training based on specific needs, personality traits, and veterinary requirements. Positive reinforcement training helps pandas voluntarily cooperate with care and medical checks, significantly reducing stress responses and enhancing animal health and welfare. For example, in 2004, the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding began its initial positive reinforcement training for giant pandas. Over more than a decade, they have gained extensive experience and built trust between trainers and pandas.
Behavioral training also helps minimize stress and injury from medical treatments and management in captivity. Additionally, it enhances the diversity of panda behaviors and allows them to live in a more relaxed and comfortable environment.