There are three red pandas here at Edinburgh Zoo - Bruce, Ginger and Kevyn.

Both Bruce and Ginger were born in 2015, Bruce came to Edinburgh in 2016 while Ginger arrived in 2017. They can be spotted in their enclosure near the main entrance. 

In 2022, we welcomed Kevyn from Highland Wildlife Park. Visitors can see him exploring his home behind Penguins Rock. 

FACT FILE

• Red pandas share similarities with both the bear and racoon family. Their classification has caused controversy since they were first described in 1825, but today they are placed in their own separate family
• Like the giant panda, red pandas have a modified wrist bone that acts like a sixth digit or false thumb. This helps them grip branches and their favourite food, bamboo
• The name "panda" comes from the Nepalese word "nigalya panya", which means "bamboo eater”
• They are excellent climbers thanks to their semi-retractable claws, and when not searching for food, they are usually found in the trees

HOW WE'RE HELPING

Wild populations of red pandas are in decline due to habitat loss and degradation, human interference and poaching. Here at RZSS, our red pandas are part of the European Endangered Species Programme (EEP) which ensures a healthy and genetically diverse population.

Like all the animals in our care our red pandas are amazing ambassadors for their relatives in the wild and help hundreds of thousands of people connect with nature every year. They encourage visitors to learn about the threats facing wildlife and the action they can take to help create a world where nature is protected, valued and loved.

As a wildlife conservation charity, we care for the animals here at the zoo and work to protect species at risk around the world. From providing expertise in genetics and veterinary health, to protecting wild places with local conservation partners, and even restoring threatened species to the wild, we are active where we are needed most.

Find out more about RZSS conservation