Observations have shown that giant pandas utilize twigs and bamboo pieces to inflict self-harm. Beyond the longstanding tale of pandas applying dirt to their fur, this marks the inaugural documentation of tool usage among these creatures, as noted by Yang Bin from the Shaanxi Zoological Research Institute in China.

“People often perceive pandas as lethargic and solely driven by their appetite,” Yang remarked. “Discovering their ability to use tools has significantly reshaped our understanding of pandas.”

Yang and colleagues observed this behavior during various tasks and attempted to delve deeper. They recorded 383 instances of tool use across 50 days while monitoring 18 captive giant pandas (Ailuropoda melanoleuca) in Chinese zoos, which included both males and females.

The pandas primarily employed twigs and bamboo fragments from trees, often for scratching purposes. This behavior allows them to reach body parts that are notoriously difficult to access without tools.

Considering the outdoor natural habitats where these zoo pandas reside, Yang suggested that wild pandas might exhibit similar tool usage; however, no such behaviors have been documented in the wild thus far.

Distinct from other bears, pandas possess “false thumbs” on their feet—essentially a sixth digit that, while shorter than a human thumb, enables them to grasp objects in unique ways. Researchers have noted that pandas possess relatively large brains and the capability to plan short-term, particularly with the manner in which they use broken sticks as tools.

“Pandas may exhibit more complex cognitive abilities and behaviors than we previously realized,” Yang stated, emphasizing that further investigation is required to understand this behavior better, including whether pandas can be trained to use tools.