The red panda was first classified and given its scientific name, Ailurus fulgens, in 1825. Giant pandas were described much later and earned their "panda" name because of the similarities the two species shared, like eating bamboo.

Are red pandas related to pandas?

Red pandas, like giant pandas, are bamboo eaters native to Asia's high forests. Despite these similarities and their shared name, the two species are not closely related. Red pandas are much smaller than giant pandas and are the only living member of their taxonomic family.

What is the difference between a red panda and a panda?

Even though they are both called 'pandas' they belong to different family groups. Giant Pandas belong to the Urisdae or 'bear' family, whereas red pandas belong to the Ailuridae family. ... Despite Red Pandas being known as a 'lesser' panda, they are in fact the original panda.