Red pandas are among one of the cutest animals on the planet, despite not being a real panda; they are a separate species altogether. They are also known as the lesser panda or “firefox”. These adorable creatures belong to the Ailuridae family and are native to the eastern Himalayas, northern Myanmar, southwestern China, and Nepal. Here are ten surprising facts that you may not have known before about these delightful creatures.

1. They are excellent climbers. With their sharp claws, red pandas are skilled climbers and can easily navigate the densest mountain forests. They are amongst the few mammals that can rotate their ankles sideways enabling them to climb easily over tree trunks and branches.

2. They have distinct markings. Red pandas’ have fur that is reddish-brown with a white belly, whereas their faces have white striations. The fur on their tails is ringed and patterned.

3. They are a prey species. Although red pandas feasts primarily on bamboo shoots and leaves, they also eat small mammals, birds, and insects. They are themselves preyed upon by wild dogs, snow leopards and occasionally humans.

4. They have furry paws. Red pandas have fur on the bottoms of their paws, which make it easier for them to grip slopes and branches when they are going up or down.

5. They are solitary creatures. Red pandas tend to be solitary creatures, only coming together during the mating season. A pair may only stay together for a couple of days.

6. They are shy and elusive. In the wild, red pandas are known to be very quiet and elusive, making them hard to spot. They are nocturnal creatures and are active during the night, which makes daytime sightings rare.

7. They have false thumbs. Red pandas have a false thumb on each of their front paws. It helps them to grip bamboo while they eat, and to climb trees.

8. They have a unique diet. Red pandas are known to have a unique diet mostly bamboo. However, they balance their nutrition by eating small insects, fruits, berries, and small animals.

9. They are misunderstood. Red pandas are often mistaken for raccoons, but they are not related to them, They share similarities with bears and raccoons, but they do not fit into either family group.

10. They are considered an endangered species. The red panda’s habitat is being destroyed rapidly, and they are hunted for their fur. These beautiful creatures are currently listed as endangered by the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) Red List.

In conclusion, Red pandas have won countless hearts with their adorable looks. These furry creatures have adapted brilliantly to their natural habitat and are known for their unique nutritional requirements, climbing skills and elusive nature. But, they are facing a tough time due to habitat destruction and hunting. We must do our best to protect them and ensure that future generations can also enjoy their cuteness.