Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - The Buffalo Zoo is celebrating the birth of a red panda cub, born back on June 15. The cub is being hand-raised by the zoo’s veterinary team.
"This little red panda cub has already captured our hearts," said Lisa Smith, president and CEO of the Buffalo Zoo. "While the journey hasn’t been without its challenges, our incredible veterinary and animal care teams have shown extraordinary dedication and compassion. Each step forward for this cub is a step toward securing a brighter future for red pandas in our care and in the wild."
Initially, the cub had to be fed every four hours by a veterinary team member who stayed overnight at the zoo to provide round-the-clock care. Over the next few months, the cub will continue to be hand-raised by veterinary and animal care teams.
The cub is scheduled to make its public debut Thursday, Sept. 4, from 1:30-to-2:30 p.m. Zoo officials said the animal’s well-being remains their top priority, and viewing is not guaranteed.
Red pandas are considered critically endangered. They are native to Asia and eat mostly leaves, bamboo and greens.
Zoo officials said the birth of the cub is a promising development in its mission of wildlife conservation.