Red Panda mother Rufina and one of the Red Panda twins born at Longleat. Photo: Sam Allworthy/Longleat Safari & Adventure Park
Two weeks ago Red Panda mother Rufina gave birth to twins at Longleat (UK) – again. The yet unnamed babies are the sixth offspring of her and Red Panda father Ajendra.
Photo: Sam Allworthy/Longleat Safari & Adventure Park
“Fantastic parents”
The cubs were visible for the first time, when her mum moved them to a different nesting area.
“This is perfectly natural behaviour but makes keeping track of the babies, or even confirming what sex they are, somewhat problematic for us,” said Keeper Sam Allworthy. “Rufina and Ajendra are both such fantastic parents that we pretty much leave them to it and try to interfere as little as possible,” she added.
Photo: Sam Allworthy/Longleat Safari & Adventure Park
Very important Pandas
According to the zoo, both Rufina and Ajendra are considered critically important members of the European Endangered Species Programme for the Red Panda due to their diverse genetics.
Read More
Longleat’s official website offers more information about their Red Pandas.
Our story about Rufina’s offspring in 2017:
And in 2016:
Longleat also offers Red Panda encounters:
