New Hope for Red Pandas: Cubs Born in Himalayan Zoological Park

Two Red Panda cubs were recently welcomed into the world at the Himalayan Zoological Park near Gangtok. This is the first successful birth after a seven-year hiatus, marking a significant triumph for the Park's conservation efforts, according to an official statement.

The cubs, born to parents Lucky(II) and Mirak, symbolize hope for the Park's Red Panda Conservation program, which faced hurdles like canine distemper outbreaks that previously threatened the captive population. The conservation breeding program commenced in 1997 with a pair from the Rotterdam and Darjeeling Zoos.

The Park emphasized the importance of maintaining genetic diversity through tracking in global studbooks. Red pandas breed in winter, with females giving birth in June to August. The Park plans to protect the cubs from public view until they mature further, ensuring a healthy upbringing and future breeding integration.

(With inputs from agencies.)