Many people know that pandas are cute, but only some know that these cute creatures can be gross at times. Apparently, they like to cover their whole bodies in horse poop. That’s right. Horse poop. Let that sink in for a moment. “But why?” you might ask. It would seem that scientists themselves aren’t sure why pandas have this kind of behavior. However, they might have an explanation.
The horse poop contains compounds that might help the animals deal with colder temperatures.
In other words, horse poop keeps the pandas warm during the winter.
Learn more about this over Science Magazine.
Can someone just give them sweaters? Thanks.
(Image Credit: Fuwen Wei/ Science Magazine)
Newest 4 Comments
I have seen other animals roll in horse droppings. Notably, dogs. The people who are studying pandas need to pay attention to other animals as well. My thinking is that they just like the way it smells.
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I'm just asking myself how they developed this behaviour, and how did the horse manure got in the area where the pandas roam?
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Most bears have thick coats of fur, for protection from the cold.I don't believe horse dung would make much difference, thermally speaking.Never has with me anyway.
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Fromthe picture, it appears handy for camouflage. Their natural coloring isn't all that great for blending in.
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