Giant Panda Skeletons

The general skeletal system of a giant panda is very similar to that of a bear, except bigger. The biggest advantage of a large skeleton in pandas is the enlarged skull. An enlarged skull supports the high amount of jaw movement from almost constantly eating bamboo. A large skull also allows a quick, powerful closure of the mandible when eating. Giant Panda’s also have an elongated radial sesamoid bone that acts like a thumb. Giant Panda’s have 40 teeth; the premolars and molars are enlarged and are very broad to allow for the chewing of tough bamboo.