Red Panda Network

What do bees 🐝 have to do with red panda conservation? Glad you asked!

Thanks to donors like you, Forest Guardians in Nepal are protecting both red pandas and pollinators. Last year, with support from Surya Bhattarai received 18 modern beehives alongside his 30 traditional log hives to strengthen beekeeping as an alternative livelihood practice to other activities that may result in habitat loss, degradation, and red panda poaching.

Surya says "The nectar and pollen the bees collect come from the habitat where the red panda lives. Additionally, they are crucial pollinators for flowering and fruiting plants such as Magnolia, Rhododendron, Himalayan whitebeam, and Wild Kiwi, supporting the regeneration of forest plants that sustain red panda habitats." Surya adds that during his regular red panda patrols, he also watches over the bees.

Twice a year, Surya harvests 20-22 KG of organic honey, supporting his children's education and household needs.

This proves how bee conservation strengthens forest health, healthy forests sustain red pandas and sustainable livelihoods motivate communities to protect both. Finally, this completes a cycle of mutual benefit where pandas, pollinators, and people thrive together.