What is it about pandas that makes them so endearing to us? Is it their distinctive black-and-white markings? Is it how they're so clumsy that you could accuse them of being drunk? Could it be because both adults and cubs look so cuddly?

Whatever the reasons, pandas are popular. So popular than when countries accept pandas on loan from China that this is referred to as 'panda diplomacy'.

But we all know that pandas are also endangered and need our help to propagate themselves. Apart from IVF, pandas are even shown 'panda porn' (videos of pandas mating) in the hopes that they will figure out how to do the deed themselves.

Anyway, I recently came across this video that, among many things, explains why pandas are clumsy and discusses why/how they evolved to eat bamboo. It is also because of this evolution that pandas in the wild became solitary, which contributes to their dwindling numbers.

People have also said that if pandas can't be bothered to help themselves, why should we? It sounds evil almost, that we who are responsible for their shrinking natural habitat should not lift a finger to help them.

But could there be a valid point here? Let's say we stopped encroaching on the pandas' territory and left them alone... would nature take its course and result in more pandas being born in the wild? Given the solitary nature of these creatures, it's difficult to say.

And if we did somehow manage to leave them and their habitat alone, would we only end up hastening their total demise? Is human intervention truly the only way for pandas to avoid extinction?

One thing's for sure: Pandas are cute, and their adorable, cuddly looks will continue to make us try and ensure they remain around for decades to come.

– Jeremy

(Main image: Lukas W., Unsplash)