‘Amazing development’: fossil finds show how panda’s false thumb evolved

Fossils of Ailurarctos, an extinct panda relative, are oldest known evidence for the radial sesamoid

Ancient fossils discovered in China have helped researchers get a grip on the enduring mystery of the panda's false thumb.

Modern giant pandas sport a thumb-like sixth digit on their wrists, which scientists believe was pivotal in their transition from omnivores to bamboo-munching vegetarians.