The world's most beloved animal is no longer endangered

Panda fans everywhere can rejoice! The big, round, fun loving bears aren't at risk of extinction anymore.

Their extinction risk has been downgraded from 'endangered' to 'vulnerable', but this doesn't mean that they're out of the woods yet, but it is surely a step in the right direction.

There has been a 17% increase in total Panda population since 2014, as there are now 1,864 Pandas in the world.

“For over 50 years, the giant panda has been the globe’s most beloved conservation icon as well as the symbol of World Wildlife Fund. Knowing that the panda is now a step further from extinction is an exciting moment for everyone committed to conserving the world’s wildlife and their habitats,” said Marco Lambertini, WWF Director General.

The efforts of the WWF have seen the number of Panda reserves get to 67, where nearly two-thirds of the world's Panda population are cared for. 

As well as these sanctuaries, they have helped to protect numerous bamboo forests which shelter both the Panda population and a number of other species.

This is great news for animal lovers everywhere and an example to follow for the numerous other endangered animals out there. 

But for now, we can enjoy more Panda gifs!