Adult giant pandas make several different noises, but the one people notice most is a soft, sheep‑like bleat that sounds a bit like a “baa.”

Quick Scoop

  • Pandas often bleat, which really does sound similar to a sheep calling.
  • They can also huff, moan, bark, and make little chirps or squeaks, especially during mating season or between mother and cub.
  • Compared with many other bears, pandas are fairly quiet; they rely a lot on body language and scent instead of loud roars.

What noises do pandas actually make?

Scientists and keepers have documented a surprising “dictionary” of panda sounds:

  • Bleats – soft, sheep‑like “baa” used as a friendly call or “I’m here” signal.
  • Honks / huffs – short goose‑like or breathy sounds during relaxed or excited interactions.
  • Moans – low, drawn‑out sounds, often when moving around or signaling mild discomfort or “keep some distance.”
  • Barks – sharp dog‑like barks used as a warning or to say “back off.”
  • Squeaks / chirps – high‑pitched baby sounds, mostly from cubs to their mothers when they’re hungry, cold, or seeking attention.
  • Growls and grumbles – deeper, more serious warnings during conflicts or strong annoyance.

So if you’re wondering “what noise does a panda make,” the most typical answer is: a gentle, sheep‑like bleat, plus a whole range of softer huffs, moans, barks, and squeaks depending on mood and situation.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.