Koda sets off on a wonderful new adventure!

Red Panda ‘Koda’ (meaning ‘little bear’) was born at Paradise Park back in July 2016 to mum Jai-Li (who has had seven cubs at Paradise Park!).

Last week Koda started a new adventure, heading off to Chester Zoo to join resident Red Panda Nima.

Keeper Donna Sinclair explains “Paradise Park participates in the Red Panda European Captive Breeding Programme, which is why Koda has moved to form a new pairing and create his own little family. The training that we do here at the Park meant that his transfer went very smoothly and we look forward to seeing photos and video of him in his new home at Chester Zoo.”

LEFT: More recently, Koda and Mum Jai-Li at Paradise Park RIGHT: Here is Koda having a lazy Sunday morning!

Chester Zoo arrive to transport Koda to his new home

LEFT: From 2016, Mum Jai-Li carefully carrying Koda to a new den RIGHT: Close up of Koda as  cub

The species is generally quiet except for squealing and grunting by cubs, and whistling communication sounds. The Red Panda lives in bamboo forests on the slopes of the Himalayas, and is classed as Endangered. It is believed that their numbers could now be as low as 2,500. The existing population is expected to decline by 10% every 10 years. Paradise Park has raised over £5,000 to help the conservation of Red Pandas in the wild through the www.redpandanetwork.org. Becoming a member helps to spread the word, and you can adopt a Red Panda or sponsor a Forest Guardian. These guardians conduct awareness-building workshops in local villages and schools. Plus research for the Red Panda Network and establish community-based protected areas.

Looking back – When Koda was a cub just a couple of months old, and a recent vet check before his move, and lastly enjoying some bamboo!

Find out more about our Red Panda’s here