Lali and Masu are the newest additions to the red panda family at the Denver Zoo. They have come a long way since they were born June 6; both had pneumonia in the first few weeks.
They were started on daily tube feedings, antibiotics and fluids to combat the illness. They have recovered and are gaining weight. Zoo veterinarians are keeping a close eye on Lali and Masu, both female, and perform regular checkups on the cubs’ weight, temperature and overall wellness, a Denver Zoo news release said.
The cubs will remain behind the scenes in a nesting box with their mother, Faith, until September as they develop and prepare to join their father, Hamlet, in the red panda exhibit. Lucky Zoo guests may get to see Faith bring the cubs outside of the nesting box, although she probably will keep them hidden, according to the news release.
This is Faith’s and Hamlet’s first litter. Faith was born in June 2014 and came to the Denver Zoo from Trevor Park Zoo in New York. Hamlet was born in July 2013 and . They were united as part of a breeding recommendation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums Species Survival Plan.
Red pandas are native to Asia and are an endangered species, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature. The biggest threats to their survival are habitat loss and fragmentation, and physical threats.
As their name suggests, the pandas are red and have off-white markings. They also are known for their puffy tails and pointed ears. Red pandas, like giant pandas, have specialized diet requirements and eat a large amount of bamboo daily.
