Endangered red panda twins born at Hertfordshire Zoo
First red panda twins born at Hertfordshire Zoo in 12 years
Hertfordshire Zoo is celebrating a rare event with the birth of two endangered red panda cubs.
These twins are the first to be born at the zoo in 12 years, marking a milestone for the zoo's conservation breeding programme.
The cubs were born to first-time parents Nila and Ash on 3rd June 2026.
This event is significant for the conservation efforts at Hertfordshire Zoo as red pandas are one of the world's most threatened mammals.
During their initial weeks, the cubs have remained hidden away in their nest boxes while their mother, Nila, provides care.
Nila has been moving the cubs around their habitat discreetly, offering them protection during important early development stages.
Visitors at the zoo may catch sight of Nila moving the cubs around, and the zoo anticipates the young pandas will become more active over time.
Tyler Whitnall, Director of Hertfordshire Zoo, expressed delight at the news, explaining that witnessing Nila's maternal instincts has been incredible: “Our entire keeper team is absolutely thrilled.
"Red panda births are always incredibly special, but welcoming twins makes this an unforgettable moment. Nila has taken to motherhood brilliantly. She’s remained calm, attentive and incredibly protective, exactly what you’d hope to see from a first-time mum.
Nila’s name honours conservationist Nila Gurung, whose efforts with the Red Panda Network, have helped restore forests vital to the species in Nepal.
Red pandas are currently classified as Endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, with fewer than 2,500 remaining in the wild.
Issues like habitat loss and illegal wildlife trade continue to threaten their survival.