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Juvenile Red Pandas Threatened in Herberstein

After a wait of more than a decade, the pair of 'pumablocks' at Tierwelt Herberstein have produced offspring, with their condition being reported as good.

, and Administrator

2025 August 31 . 2:11 PM

2 min read

Juvenile Red Pandas in Peril at Herberstein

Juvenile Red Pandas Threatened in Herberstein

The Red Panda, affectionately known as the Little Panda or Cat Bear, continues to face significant challenges in the wild, with the species remaining critically endangered.

According to recent estimates, approximately 2,500 Red Pandas remain in their natural habitat, primarily across the eastern Himalayas and southwestern China. Over the past two decades, their population has declined by around 50%. The main threats to their survival include habitat loss, poaching, and the fragmentation of their natural habitats.

Despite these challenges, conservation efforts are showing promising results. Programmes such as the European Endangered Species Programme and AZA’s Species Survival Plan have played a crucial role in stabilising captive populations and supporting breeding efforts. This is evident in recent births of Red Panda cubs in zoos and wildlife parks like Fota Wildlife Park and ZooMontana.

In addition, Bhutan has launched a ten-year plan aimed at better protecting Red Pandas and stabilising their wild populations. The country's commitment to conservation is a significant step towards securing the future of this unique species.

In European zoos, there are currently 420 Red Pandas. The Schönbrunn Zoo in Austria is one such institution participating in these international breeding programmes. A Red Panda cub born at the zoo is currently being cared for away from the public in a protected area. It will take a few more weeks before the youngest Herberstein offspring is regularly visible to visitors.

Herberstein Zoo, like many others, is committed to the conservation of the Red Panda. Participation in international breeding programmes ensures that genetic diversity is maintained and that the captive population remains healthy and viable.

The Red Panda, native to the mountain forests of the Himalayas, faces ongoing threats in the wild. However, with continued conservation efforts, there is hope for the recovery of this captivating species. The future of the Red Panda depends on the collective efforts of zoos, wildlife parks, and national conservation programmes around the world.