The national animal of China is the giant panda. The giant panda is a highly recognizable and charismatic animal that is found only in China, primarily in a few mountain ranges. It is referred to as the "national treasure" of China and is embossed on official gold panda coins. The giant panda was also one of the mascots of the 2008 Beijing Olympics. The Chinese government highly treasures and preserves the giant panda as a symbol of national heritage and mythology.