Banham Zoo is thrilled to share another exciting milestone in our red panda story. Our twin cubs, born earlier this summer, have taken their very first steps outside!
The playful pair, born on 22nd June 2025, have been growing quickly under the attentive care of their mother, Lu and are now beginning to explore their outdoor habitat, much to the delight of the zoo’s animal care team and visitors lucky enough to catch a glimpse.
We’re also delighted to officially reveal their names: the female cub will be called Yun, meaning “cloud” in Chinese, and the male cub will be called Ajay, meaning “unconquered” or “invincible” in Hindi.
The birth of Yun and Ajay marks an important success for the European Endangered Species Breeding Programme (EEP), which works to protect and sustain vulnerable species such as the red panda (Ailurus fulgens).
Red pandas are currently listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List, with fewer than 2,500 estimated to remain in the wild. Their numbers continue to decline due todeforestation, habitat fragmentation and poaching, making every successful birth a significant contribution to the future of the species.
As a proud member of the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA), Banham Zoo remains dedicated to protecting endangered wildlife through world-classanimal care, breeding programmes and vital conservation work both in the UK and globally.
Sarah Stogden, Team Leader of Carnivores said, “Our red panda twins Yun and Ajay are growing in confidence every day as they continue to explore their habitat under mum Lu’s watchful eye and they have been delighting guests lucky enough to catch a glimpse of them. Their individual personalities are starting to shine through, the darker faced of the two is more adventurous and quicker to follow Lu high up in the treetops, whilst its sibling takes its time navigating the branches. Over the coming months the keepers will begin building up a relationship with the pair so that they can participate in training sessions alongside Lu and allow us to read their microchips, which they were given during their August health check with our vet, allowing us to confirm which panda is which!
Visitors will have the chance to see Yun and Ajay in their habitat this October half term,as they continue to grow bolder and explore their surroundings. This is the perfect opportunity for families to enjoy a memorable day out while supporting the conservation of these beautiful animals.
For more information about Banham Zoo and our conservation work, please visit: www.banhamzoo.co.uk
