The Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium has announced the death of one of their red pandas.
Kovu, a 9-year-old male, died on Sunday evening, the Zoo said in a statement.
The previous Friday, the panda “began displaying unusual behavior, including trouble walking.”
He was taken to veterinarians at the Zoo for examination and treatment. His health declined quickly until his passing on Sunday.
Kovu came to Pittsburgh from Columbus in 2015 and was the Zoo’s second red panda.
“Charismatic Kovu charmed millions of visitors over the years, including guests who met him up-close during Wild Encounters while providing his favorite treat, grapes,” the Zoo said.
“Kovu was ‘Mr. Cool’ from the beginning; he was one of the most confident and friendly animals at the Zoo,” shared Lead Keeper Ray Bamrick.
The red panda is native to the Himalayan Mountain range. Their typical lifespan is 10 years.
Red Pandas are an endangered species.
“Kovu was here as a representative for his endangered wild cousins. He did such a wonderful job of raising excitement, awareness, and compassion,” Bamrick said.
Kovu’s female habitat mate, Xia, will continue to be on display at the Zoo.