Brown pandas are a rare and fascinating genetic variation of the giant panda, one of the most iconic and endangered species on the planet. Their distinct brown fur sets them apart from the typical black-and-white giant pandas, making them a subject of significant interest in both scientific research and wildlife conservation. However, due to their rarity and the challenges of tracking these elusive creatures, it is difficult to determine an exact number of brown pandas remaining in the world.
The Discovery of Brown Pandas
The first recorded sighting of a brown panda occurred in 1985, in the Qinling Mountains of China, a region known for being one of the key habitats for giant pandas. Since then, there have been occasional reports of brown panda sightings in this area, but these occurrences remain extremely rare.
There are differing accounts regarding the exact number of brown pandas spotted. Some sources claim that there have been 10 confirmed sightings up to 2021, while others suggest that only 7 brown pandas have been recorded since the initial discovery in 1985. The discrepancy arises from the difficulties in tracking these elusive animals and the limited number of studies available.
The Famous “Qi Zai” and Other Brown Pandas
One of the most well-known brown pandas is Qi Zai, born in 2009. Qi Zai is the seventh brown panda documented by scientists and the only one to have been raised in captivity. He was rescued in the Foping Nature Reserve in the Qinling Mountains and later transferred to the Louguantai Wildlife Rescue Center for further care. Despite his rare genetic variation, Qizai has not passed on his distinctive brown fur to any of his offspring, as none of his children inherited the brown coloration.
Genetic Mutation Behind the Brown Fur
The phenomenon of brown pandas is closely linked to a genetic mutation that affects their fur color. Research on the hair and genes of brown pandas has revealed that a specific mutation in the panda’s DNA causes a significant reduction in the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for the typical black fur. In the case of Qizai and other brown pandas, a partial deletion of base pairs in their genetic code causes the melanocytes, or pigment-producing cells, to produce less pigment. This leads to a noticeable change in their fur color, resulting in a unique brown appearance.