Bridgeport CT- Meet Pabu! Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo’s first-ever red panda cub officially has a name after the public cast their votes to name the history-making new arrival.
Pabu, a Tibetan word meaning “fluffball,” came out on top over Ravi and Tashi, and one look at the Zoo’s fuzzy new fan favorite makes it pretty clear why.
Born June 24 to first-time parents Ponya and Pilot, Pabu has already packed quite a lot into his first few months: making Zoo history, capturing hearts across the region and becoming a social media sensation along the way. Now, he finally has the name to go with it.
Beyond all that fluff, Pabu’s arrival is an important one for his species. His birth marks a significant achievement for the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ (AZA) Red Panda Species Survival Plan (SSP), which works to maintain a healthy and genetically diverse population of red pandas in accredited zoos. Ponya and Pilot were paired through the SSP as part of a nationwide effort to support the future of this endangered species.
There is plenty more ahead for Beardsley Zoo’s newest little star. Pabu will continue receiving care behind the scenes as he grows and prepares to join parents, Ponya and Pilot, at the Natt Family Red Panda Habitat. Pabu may finally have his name, but his story at Beardsley Zoo is just getting started.
Follow @ConnecticutsBeardsleyZoo on Facebook and @CTBeardsleyZoo on Instagram for Pabu updates, photos and more as he continues to grow. For tickets and to plan your next visit, visit beardsleyzoo.org.
About Red Pandas (Ailurus fulgens) Red pandas are small, tree-dwelling mammals native to the temperate forests of the Himalayas and southwestern China. Known for their reddish-brown fur, ringed tails, and playful personalities, red pandas spend much of their lives in trees and primarily feed on bamboo. Despite sharing a name with giant pandas, they belong to their own unique family and are considered one of the world's most charismatic endangered species.
About Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo Connecticut’s only zoo, celebrating 103 years, features 350 animals representing primarily North and South American and Northern Asian species. Guests won’t want to miss our Red Pandas, Andean bears, Maned Wolves, Mexican Gray Wolves, and American Red Wolves. Other highlights include our Spider Monkey Habitat and prairie dog exhibit! As an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and participant in its Species Survival Plan (SSP) programs, the non-profit Zoo is committed to the preservation of endangered animals and wild habitats. Tickets must be purchased on the Zoo’s website at beardsleyzoo.org.