Exploring Captive Giant Panda Reproduction: Maternal and Offspring Factor Correlations from 324 Breeding Events

This study analyzes 324 captive giant panda breeding events (1998-2023) to unravel maternal and gestational drivers of cub survival and health-the largest dataset of its kind to date. Key variables included gestational duration, maternal age, interbirth interval, number of cubs per breeding event, cub birth weight, and neonatal mortality. Maternal age (5-7 years, ≥20 years) and interbirth intervals ≤1 year were linked to increased neonatal mortality, whereas intermediate gestational durations (110-127 days) and longer interbirth intervals (≥4 years) correlated with higher cub survival ratios. Although no direct relationship was found between gestational duration and birth weight, singleton cubs exhibited significantly higher weights than twins. By quantifying these relationships, we propose actionable strategies to enhance reproductive efficiency in managed populations, such as adjusting breeding schedules and maternal health monitoring.