Could being a panda nanny be the best job ever?
This was once deemed the greatest job in the world...
We don't know about you, but when we see pandas we immediately think soft and cuddly.
Well, that, and 'Kung Fu Panda'.
When it comes to endangered animals, there are conservation efforts that make it possible to give that extra bit of care and love to animals. We think it was for this reason that the China Giant Panda Protection and Research Center in Ya'an have panda caretakers aka panda nannies.
In 2014, according to China Daily, there was the opportunity to become a panda nanny.
"For those who wish to partake in this amazing opportunity -- which pays about $32,000 per year, plus meals, board and the use of an SUV -- should be 22 years old or older, and have writing and photography skills as well as "some basic knowledge of pandas." (HuffPost)
It was described as the best job ever and we have to say it does certainly sound appealing. The salary at the time of the post was equivalent to R597,000.
The job certainly sounds like fun, especially since these animals have such a playful demeanour.
Watch one of the videos we found online of a panda caretaker with the pandas. Courtesy of YouTube. This reminded us of caring for playful kids, they really know how to give you a run for your money.
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"The conservation efforts from the Giant Panda Chinese Research Centres have been successful even though these animals are not easy to breed. With females only able to "become pregnant for 24 to 72 hours each year." (CNN)
Their efforts have been hugely successful, as in 2021, these majestic and cuddly animals were taken off the endangered list.
In saying all that, it seems panda nannies are paid well for their services because theirs is a job not everyone can do. All the love and patience they display really do feature as a pro towards China's conservation efforts.
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