Panda-monium on the Tube

Pandas performing Tai-Chi in Covent Garden

Many Tube passengers who think their commute to work is too much to bear should paws and take a look at these black and white photos. Over 100 costumed characters caused panda-monium on the streets - and the transport network - of London to highlight Panda Awareness Week. This panda posse performed a tai-chi inspired dance in the middle of Trafalgar Square and on the Piazza at Covent Garden and travelled on the London Underground.

Pandas haven't got the hang of standing on the right at Charing X
(Photo; PA)

Panda Awareness Week (PAW) aims to raise interest and support for the protection of one of the world's most-threatened - and cutest - species. PAW highlights the work of the Chengdu Panda Base in China, a not-for-profit organisation that plays a leading role in fostering continued growth of the giant panda population, as well as rescuing and rehabilitating pandas so they can return to the wild. In total there were 108 of the faux furry things in London yesterday - the same number of pandas that are living in a special breeding centre in China's Chengdu base.

Why is the conservation of the giant panda such an urgent priority?

• ·         The giant panda is an endangered species and without help from conservation projects like the Chengdu Panda Base its future is uncertain.
• ·         The giant panda is the rarest member of the bear family and among the world’s most threatened animals.
• ·         Panda survival is threatened by loss of habitat and poaching.
• ·         There are less than 1,800 pandas left in the wild.

Tourists always clutter up platforms on The Tube  (Photo; PA)

If you are interested in panda conservation, take a look at the Chengdu Panda Base site for more information.

http://www.panda.org.cn/english/

You can follow them @ChengduPAW on Twitter and by the #Hugapanda hashtag.