The bilingual Chinese/English magazine Giant Panda was sponsored by the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, the Chengdu Giant Panda Breeding Research Foundation, the Sichuan Wildlife Conservation Association, and the Sichuan Zoological Society. After 6 internal trial issues from 2004 to 2006, the Sichuan Provincial Bureau of Press and Publication approved the magazine to be issued under the umbrella publication Sichuan Journal of Zoology (No.: ISSN 1000-7083 CN51-11931/Q), allowing for distribution domestically and abroad. Since its initial public release in Summer 2006, printed copies increased from 5,000 to 15,000 with 130,000 copies in existence today.
Giant Panda is the first magazine named after China’s most recognized and beloved animal. The mission of this popular science and cultural magazine is to promote wildlife conservation and to raise public awareness about the ecological impact of human actions in our world. Readers learn about the latest research in giant pandas and other endangered species and how they, too, can be part of improving our world for all living things.
The magazine displays illustrations and pictures rich in content so readers can enjoy learning through the simple, profound, and sometimes funny, images. Combining knowledge, fun, readability, and the most up to date research, the magazine gives readers a look into current issues facing the giant panda. Articles addressing topics like conservation and research of giant pandas, international giant panda events, natural mysteries, and new discoveries and achievements in panda care and release into the wild will challenge readers and keep them informed. Other pieces written for the magazine focus on different ecological and endangered species matters such as protecting nature reserves, current conditions in the nature reserves in Sichuan, Shaanxi, and Gansu provinces, as well as literary works and memoirs by researchers and wildlife enthusiasts. Also featured are updates on charitable donations and works by philanthropic individuals and companies concerned about improving our world.
Giant Panda readership boasts a large cross-section of society including environmental professionals, scientific and research companies domestic and abroad, government and diplomatic leaders in China, tourists traveling in Sichuan, and giant panda enthusiasts worldwide. Giant Panda has received praise by audiences foreign and domestic alike as well as from scholars and researchers involved in wildlife management and conservation.
