Abstract: Based on the field survey in Xiaohegou Nature Reserve, the difference between the habitat used by giant panda and man-made forest was studied. The results showed that 6 variables differed significantly between the habitat used by giant panda and man-made forest, they were canopy, shrub coverage, bamboo coverage, tree density, shrub density and bamboo density, respectively (P < 0.05). The discriminant equation composed of tree density, shrub density and bamboo density had a correct prediction rate of 98.15%. Compared with the giant panda habitat, the man-made forest was characterized by higher bamboo density, but lower in shrub and bamboo density. The man-made forest was not easy to fulfill the habitat requirements of giant panda. These results could provide important references for the restoration of the giant panda habitat.

Key words: giant panda, habitat use, man-made forest, Xiaohegou Nature Reserve