This is what you call a group of pandas — and you will smile instantly

Animals often surprise us not just with their behaviour, but also with the unusual names we use to describe them in groups. Though you may already be aware that a group of lions is called a pride and a group of fish is called a school, pandas are truly reaching new heights for cute and funny.

Believe it or not, the actual collective noun for pandas is “embarrassment”. Yes, really.

It is initially puzzling to think that pandas could be named as such, except that upon learning more about pandas and their habits, it all is actually pretty well-suited to them. As anyone can attest, pandas have a reputation for being awkward, laid-back animals that love to roll and tumble and awkwardly interact with each other.

This article explains where this funny group name comes from, why pandas are rarely seen together anyway, and why the term “embarrassment” is more charming than insulting.

What is a group of pandas called

A group of pandas is called an ‘Embarrassment’.

‘Embarrassment’ may seem like an insult, but it’s actually a term that’s supposed to be playful and affectionate. While it’s not very common to see a group of pandas together, either in the wild or in enclosures, it’s not hard to imagine why they might look like a bit of a sight when they do. They waddle around, they react slowly to their surroundings, or they end up on the ground.

Why is the group of pandas called an embarrassment

This collective term comes from the way that pandas act when they are around each other. Pandas are notoriously clumsy. They topple, roll down hills, miss jumps, and occasionally even shock themselves. However, when more than one panda is around, interactions between them can become a quick succession of awkwardness that would look like fun in a cartoon. "Embarrassment" is a fitting description of pandas, as they are sweet, awkward creatures.

Do pandas even live in groups

Interestingly, pandas are mostly solitary animals. Each panda maintains its own territory and generally avoids close contact with others. In the wild, giant pandas prefer to stay apart from each other, coming together only briefly during mating season. Once mating is over, they return to their solitary lifestyles. This means that in nature, an "embarrassment of pandas" is rarely seen. Most sightings occur in zoos, breeding centres, or conservation programs. The term is even funnier since it's a name for something that's hardly there!

Does “embarrassment” apply to red pandas too

Even though both species have “panda” in their name, they are not collectively given the same name.

Red pandas are a distinct species altogether and are more closely related to raccoons rather than bears. Like giant pandas, they are equally cute and equally clumsy at times, but they don’t have a widely used collective name. However, it’s to be noted that they are also lone species for the most part and hardly ever form large gatherings. In short, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to call a group of red pandas an embarrassment, either.

Another group of animals with funny names

Pandas aren't the only ones who have amusing group names. English has given us an unkindness of ravens, a parliament of owls, and a crash of rhinoceroses. These were named centuries ago and reflected behaviour, personality, or simply human imagination. The embarrassment of pandas easily ranks among the most lovable and memorable of them all.