Cute Animals of Asia
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I’m devoting this topic to the cute and cuddly animals of Asia. Please offer suggestions and I will update the list. First up…
Mandarin Duck [China]
Few other birds don such a dramatic and colorful costume for breeding as the male Mandarin Duck! Some say these ducks are showy and gaudy, but I think they are gorgeous! Mandarin Duck|Los Angeles Arboretum|Arcadia, CA Mandarin Ducks are relatives of another beautiful duck, the Wood duck. Both ducks are perching ducks and are likely hide their beauty in dark wooded areas, along streams.
Giant Panda [China]
The giant panda, a black-and-white bear, has a body typical of bears. It has black fur on ears, eye patches, muzzle, legs, and shoulders. The rest of the animal’s coat is white. Although scientists do not know why these unusual bears are black and white, some speculate that the bold coloring provides effective camouflage into their shade-dappled snowy and rocky surroundings. The panda’s thick, wooly coat keeps it warm in the cool forests of its habitat. Giant pandas have large molar teeth and strong jaw muscles for crushing tough bamboo. Many people find these chunky, lumbering animals to be cute, but giant pandas can be as dangerous as any other bear.
Red Panda [China] [India]
The red panda is slightly larger than a domestic cat with a bear-like body and thick russet fur. The belly and limbs are black, and there are white markings on the side of the head and above its small eyes. Red pandas are very skillful and acrobatic animals that predominantly stay in trees. Almost 50 percent of the red panda’s habitat is in the Eastern Himalayas. They use their long, bushy tails for balance and to cover themselves in winter, presumably for warmth. Primarily an herbivore, the name panda is said to come from the Nepali word ‘ponya,’ which means bamboo or plant eating animal.
Tanuki in Japan AKA raccoon dog [Japan]
Although the raccoon dog resembles a raccoon, due to its shape, size and facial characteristics, it is very much a member of the dog family. It is considered to be one of the earliest species that other dog species have evolved from.
It is native to East Asia, but has also been introduced into Eastern Europe. Due to habitat destruction and extensive hunting and trapping - mainly for its fur – the numbers have declined in East Asia. In Europe, however, it is considered an invasive species.In Japan mythology, he’s a magical animal.
The magical shape-shifting Tanuki is clearly a composite creature. The original evil parts come from old China and its fox lore (introduced to Japan between the 4th-7th centuries CE). The newer tamer parts, such as the big belly, belly drumming, giant scrotum, and sake bottle can be traced to late Edo-era Japan (18th-19th centuries), while the commercialized benevolent parts (promissory note, straw hat) emerged in Japanese artwork around the beginning of the 20th century. In general, the goofy-looking Tanuki we are familiar with today is a recent creation, mostly Japanese.
Note: Yes, they are exactly what you think they are. Exactly.Iizuna AKA Least Weasel [Asia]
Least weasels are found throughout the northern half of the Northern Hemisphere, including northern China. While normally brown, the fur of the least weasel will sometimes become pure white in the winter.
Shiba Inus [Japan]
the Shiba Inu is an ancient breed of Japan. The historical role of this independent hunter was to capture or contain game ranging from fowl and small game to wild boar. This is a very intelligent dog and an owner needs to be experienced owning this type of breed. Puppyhood can be a difficult time so early socialization and obedience classes are highly recommended.
Jindo [Korea]*
Originating in South Korea, the Jindo exhibit unmatched loyalty. They are incredibly intelligent dogs with a knack for hunting, tricks, and even agility. They are fastidious and quiet indoors, making them great household pets and companions. The Jindo dog requires strong training, patience, and plenty of long walks. They are a good fit for active individuals and families who have enough time to let their wonderful personalities shine through.
Ezo Momonga*
The adorable ezo momonga is a type of flying squirrel unique to Hokkaido. Its huge, dark eyes and little paws are so cute that it has become a local mascot of sorts, appearing on the regional railway’s refillable ticket cards
Hokkaido red squirrel
The Eurasian red squirrel is spread far and wide throughout Asia and Europe, but Hokkaido has its own subspecies and is the only place in Japan where these squirrels can be found.
Pika
A pika is a small mammal, with short limbs, very round body, rounded ears, and no external tail.
I am certain this one is a male based on his table manners.Chow Chow
The Chow Chow is a dog breed originally from northern China, where it is referred to as Songshi Quan, which means “puffy-lion dog”.
lmao at that description
Chinese Giant Flying Squirrel
The Chinese giant flying squirrel (Petaurista xanthotis) is a species of rodent in the family Sciuridae. It is endemic to China and Laos .
note to self:
done - http://www.boredpanda.com/cute-animals-hokkaido-ezo-japan/
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Update: The Chinese giant flying squirrel.
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@secondstrike Thanks. So puffy!!!
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Hey you should add the Chow Chow. They’re also fluffy and adorable.
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@secondstrike Adorbs! I want it as a pet!
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@secondstrike OMG that’s my dog!!! Yes, I have a Shiba Inu. He’s about 3 years old right now
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@secondstrike The weasel is so cute. It looks more like a little stuffed animal than an actual animal, lol.
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So adorable
I love red (and regular) pandas! They’re so goofy lol.What about the raccoon dog?
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Nice topic! Oh, don’t forget the pandas, especially the red panda! Red pandas are one of my favorite animals. They’re just so adorable
