The survey, released by Chinese forestry officials and the World Wildlife Fund, says the new figures are the result of a four-year study. A similar survey in the 1980's found up to 1,100 giant pandas.

Despite the apparent population increase, researchers warn that development, poaching and loss of habitat continue to threaten giant pandas over the long-term.

The giant panda, which lives primarily in southwest China, is one of the world's rarest animals.