This is the shocking moment a hapless panda fell from a tree at a zoo in China.

Yu Ke, the mischievous giant panda, was seen climbing thin branches inside its enclosure at Chongqing Zoo in Jiulongpo District.

Dramatic footage shows the bamboo-eating bear reaching the top of the leafy branches before they snapped under its weight on November 2.

Zookeepers and visitors could be heard screaming as the animal plunged to the ground.

Moments later, it sat up as if nothing had happened, with broken branches strewn in front of it.

Local media reported that the panda was uninjured in the incident.

Witnesses expressed concern for the animal and the zoo staff, with one saying: 'If something bad happened to this giant panda, not only would the keepers lose their jobs, but the zoo director would probably lose his position too.'

Pandas are playful animals and a national symbol of China, representing peace and harmony. Their protection and prominence are closely linked to the country's pride and international image.