Giant pandas are one of the most famous animals in the world and a real guest magnet. In Sandbox mode they breed readily if you give them a good habitat with a male and a female. The trick is not to let that turn into ten pandas squashed into one space.
Availability
Giant pandas aren't available on every Franchise map. Some Franchise zoos simply don't list them. In Sandbox you can pick them straight away.
Building the habitat
- A spacious, green habitat. Bamboo and temperate Asian forest plants look right.
- Climbing structures. Pandas climb, especially youngsters.
- Shelter and a cool, shaded area.
- Drinking water.
- Use the pin species button to check land area, shelter and plant needs as you build.
Breeding
Pandas need at least one male and one female to breed. In a good habitat they'll breed without much help in Sandbox. Check the mating season in the Zoopedia, and give them a quiet area away from guests.
Don't overcrowd
I once saw a habitat with ten pandas in one exhibit. It's funny, but they won't be happy. Every extra adult raises the space and social requirements. When cubs grow up:
- Move them to storage.
- Start a second panda habitat.
- Or trade them on.
Guests
Pandas are a huge draw. Build the viewing area with room for crowds:
- A wide path and plaza in front of the glass.
- Benches and shade.
- Education boards about bamboo forests and habitat loss.
Tips
- Put red pandas nearby for a "two pandas" Asian forest area.
- Pandas are a good animal to run a marketing campaign for once they're settled.