Aspects of an animal's activity patterns such as circadian rhythm and activity level are caused by intrinsic mechanisms and environmental effects, and in turn affect an animal's energy metabolism abilities, foraging behavior strategies, and evolutionary adaptation. Using GPS collars with dual-axis accelerometers fitted on wild giant pandas and livestock (horses), we collected activity data from 2010 to 2012 in the Hetaoping Research and Conservation Center for the Giant Panda and the adjacent area of the Wolong National Nature Reserve. Representative individuals, namely three adult giant pandas and three horses, were selected as samples. Indices of activity levels, active time percentage, activity fragmentation rate, and active segment duration were compared between the groups in order to reveal intrinsic features of the giant pandas and livestock in terms of time utilization. The results showed that the wild pandas and livestock had differences in activity intensity, percentage of active time, and activity fragmentation rate (all P < 0.0001). There was no significant statistical difference between them in the duration of activity segments (P =0.4107). Wild pandas showed activity patterns with a low activity level, less active time, high activity fragmentation rate, and low duration of activity segments, which varied greatly between different months (seasons) (P < 0.0001). Livestock exhibited distinctive time-use patterns, i.e. elevated activity levels, multiple active times, slightly lower activity segment ratios, and somewhat longer duration of action segments. The discrete time-use patterns and spatial utilization models stemmed from the differences in utilization patterns, impact strength, and specific distribution in habitats and food resources of the animals. Therefore, rational planning and control of the extent of free-range areas for livestock is an effective way to harmonize nature conservation management with community economic development.