An early Christmas present for Liwei the red panda!
On 16th December 2025, we had an exciting gift for Liwei the red panda! A small bundle with a red fur coat, furry feet and a fluffy tail – a companion – this is a gift not just for Christmas!
The Animal Care Team were delighted to welcome a male red panda named Iris, from Cotswolds Wildlife Park to join resident female, Liwei. Born on 18th July 2021, Iris is 4 years old and joined the family at Colchester Zoological Society as part of an EEP (EAZA Ex situ Programme) recommendation. Following the loss of previous male An An in June 2024, Iris’s arrival is very special and we hope that he forms a bond with Liwei that one day results in the pitter patter of cub feet!
Red pandas are currently classed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, with as few as 2,500 left in the wild. In the last 20 years, there has been a 50% decline in the red panda population. Their forest homes in the Himalayas are shrinking due to deforestation and climate change.
Red pandas spend 55% of their days sleeping and are usually most active in the early morning and late afternoon. They are normally solitary creatures but come together in pairs in the breeding season. During this time, they communicate using body language and a variety of noises including the ‘huff-quack” and a “warning whistle”.
Here at CZS, we support global conservation efforts through education, breeding programmes, and partnerships with organisations like the Red Panda Network who we have supported for over 10 years. One of the key initiatives contributing to their success is the Forest Guardian programme. Our donations help sponsor a forest guardian to monitor and protect red panda habitats, as well as educate communities on the importance of the species.
There are many ways to help support red pandas out in the wild. You can purchase a red panda adoption at CZS, make a donation to the Zoo or simply visit our pair at their home at River’s Edge.
