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Panda stands out in Japan after standing up

TOKYO - Futa has a great pair of legs, and they've won the red panda fans across Japan, spots on the evening news and a starring role in an upcoming TV commercial.

Since the 2-year-old, 23-inch-tall animal was photographed standing upright by a national newspaper last month, he has become the toast of animal lovers in Japan.

"We never expected such a reaction. We're at a bit of a loss," said Masanori Kobayashi of Chiba Zoological Park.

He said it's not usual for red pandas to stand, but the photograph of Futa has drawn some 6,000 visitors to the zoo each weekend.

Futa took on his first television role this week - the zoo was paid $600 - posing for a soft drink advertisement to be broadcast this summer.

And there have been requests from companies wanting to make stuffed animals, postcards and other goods using Futa's image, zoo spokesman Kazuhiro Nozawa said.

Fame does have its downside, Nozawa said.

Zoo officials worry Futa might be too distracted - or tired - to mate.

Futa was brought from another Japanese zoo to pair with a female red panda.

"His primary purpose here is to mate," said Nozawa. "But he seems really tired."

Red pandas come from the Himalayan mountains around Burma, China and Nepal.

Like their cousins, the giant panda, they feed on bamboo.

[Last modified June 3, 2005, 01:17:39]