Today it is found only in six small areas of west-central China, along the eastern rim of the Tibetan plateau, at altitudes of 2,600 to 3,500 m. Often the area is snow bound. The Giant Panda walks through the bamboo forest with a rolling gait and moves through its home range using the same paths and tunnels frequently. Sometimes, it may use man-made paths. These paths connect feeding sites with rock or tree dens and sleeping spots.
Pandas rest in higher regions during the day and descend to the lower areas at night to feed.
Though the Giant Panda is classified as a carnivore, it is actually a herbivore, feeding mainly on bamboo. It feeds on both the shoots and the roots but whenever available, it prefers the tender leaves and stems. The panda also eats some bulbs and tubers of other plants, grasses and small insects. Interestingly, though the Giant Panda feeds mainly on bamboo, its digestive system cannot cope well with it and much of the bamboo passes undigested through its intestines. To get enough nourishment, it may therefore spend as many as 12 hours a day feeding.