Hailed as a "dragon vein" in China's history and traditional culture, the Qinling Mountains abound with diverse vegetation, including various types of bamboo.

In spring, bamboos begin their fastest period of growth.

Roaming the Earth for eight million years, the once carnivorous giant panda chooses bamboo as a staple food.

To fill its belly, the giant panda spends about 14 hours a day chewing on stalks.

The rest of the day is spent in dreams.

For more:

Message of Spring: Heavenly Pond in sub-alpine nature reserve

Message of Spring: Overture at the source of mother rivers

Message of Spring: Boisterous gathering on the grassland

Message of Spring: Landscape gallery along meandering river

Message of Spring: Undulating pines on once desertified highland

(Cover a video screenshot)