Endangered red panda twins born at Hertfordshire Zoo
The twins represent a significant milestone for the zoo’s conservation efforts
Two endangered red panda cubs have been born at Hertfordshire Zoo, marking the first red panda twin birth at the zoo in 12 years.
The twins, born on 3rd June 2026 to first-time parents Nila and Ash, represent a significant milestone for the zoo’s conservation efforts and bring hope for one of the world's most threatened mammals.
A Milestone for Conservation
The birth of the twins follows four years after the arrival of Tashi, Hertfordshire Zoo’s last red panda cub.
Speaking about the twins, Tyler Whitnall, Director of Hertfordshire Zoo, shared his enthusiasm: “Our entire keeper team is absolutely thrilled. Red panda births are always incredibly special, but welcoming twins makes this an unforgettable moment.”
Mother Nila has shown strong maternal instincts, ensuring her cubs are safely tucked away in their nest boxes and hidden within dense planting.
Hertfordshire Zoo's Role in Global Conservation
Red pandas are classified as Endangered, with less than 2,500 mature individuals remaining in the wild due to habitat loss and illegal wildlife trade.
The zoo is part of the European breeding programme for endangered red pandas, helping to maintain a healthy population.
Nila’s name holds significance as well.
She is named after conservationist Nila Gurung, who has worked with the zoo’s conservation partner, the Red Panda Network, to restore forests in Nepal.
Red Pandas in the wild
Red pandas are facing a growing extinction threat as habitat loss, climate change, and human activity continue to reduce their numbers.
Listed as Endangered, fewer than 10,000 mature red pandas are believed to remain in the wild, with their populations declining due to deforestation, agricultural expansion, and fragmented habitats.
Native to the Himalayan mountain forests and parts of southwestern China, red pandas rely on cool, high-altitude forests rich in bamboo for food and shelter.
Conservationists warn that protecting and reconnecting these forests will be critical to preventing further decline of this rare species.
What Visitors Can Expect
In July, the cubs are expected to become more active and adventurous as they begin to explore their habitat.
Hertfordshire Zoo encourages everyone to keep an eye on their website and social media for updates on the twins’ development.