2 cubs better than 1: Buffalo Zoo welcomes 2nd red panda cub

Buffalo Zoo Press Release & Photos

The Buffalo Zoo is thrilled to announce another exciting addition to its red panda family. In partnership with Binder Park Zoo in Battle Creek, Michigan, the Buffalo Zoo has welcomed a second female red panda cub, born June 11, to serve as a companion for the Buffalo-born cub.

Like the cub born at the Buffalo Zoo, this new arrival required hand-rearing after her young, first-time mother experienced complications. Bringing the two cubs together represents an important step forward in ensuring the survival of this endangered species.

“By uniting the resources and expertise of two AZA-accredited zoos, we were able to give both cubs the best possible chance to thrive,” Buffalo Zoo President and CEO Lisa Smith said. “The Buffalo Zoo is proud to work with countless other zoos to ensure the well-being of animals and species survival, and this partnership with the Binder Park Zoo is no different. Pairing these cubs together allows them to bond, play, and develop critical natural behaviors that are stronger when raised alongside another red panda.”

Red pandas are social learners, and these two cubs are already benefiting from having a companion. Observing and interacting with one another encourages natural curiosity and play, helps them build strength and coordination, and supports healthy emotional development.

Beyond learning important survival skills, companionship lowers stress levels, boosts resiliency, and allows the cubs to grow up more confident and well-adjusted.

Born just four days apart, the cubs each faced early challenges but have now been successfully introduced. While they are still getting to know one another, over time they are expected to develop a strong bond as they grow and learn together.

Red panda photos provided by the Buffalo Zoo.

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Guests will have the chance to meet the cubs during their public debut from 1:30-2:30 p.m. today in the ambassador animal exhibit near the Diversity Hallway and gorilla exhibit. After their debut, the cubs are tentatively scheduled to be on view daily during the same time. Viewing times are subject to change to ensure their well-being.

Red pandas are classified as endangered, with fewer than 10,000 left in the wild due to habitat loss and deforestation. Native to the forests of Nepal, Bhutan, and southern China, red pandas primarily eat bamboo, and play a vital role in maintaining the balance of their ecosystems.

Guests are encouraged to follow the Buffalo Zoo on social media for updates – including the highly anticipated name reveal for both cubs.

More about the Buffalo Zoo: Founded in 1875, the Buffalo Zoo is a 501(c)(3) organization and the third-oldest zoo in the U.S. Each year, the Buffalo Zoo welcomes nearly 400,000 visitors and is among the most visited tourist attractions in Western New York. Located on 23.5 acres of Frederick Law Olmsted’s Delaware Park, the venue provides interactive and educational family experiences throughout the year. With a diverse collection of over 800 wild and exotic animals and more than 320 different species of plants, visitors are introduced to and inspired by nature each time they visit. For more information, visit www.buffalozoo.org.