Pilatus the red panda relocates to Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo to join Ponya in species conservation effort

Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo is thrilled to announce the arrival of Pilatus, a one-year-old male red panda traveling from Chattanooga Zoo to join us here in Bridgeport.

Pilatus, born in June 2024, made the journey north as part of the Red Panda Species Survival Plan (SSP) a nationwide conservation effort to ensure a healthy and genetically diverse red panda population in human care. Pilatus will be paired with Beardsley Zoo’s own female red panda, Ponya, in the Natt Family Red Panda Habitat with the hope that their future together contributes to this important mission.

“We are absolutely delighted to welcome Pilatus to our Zoo family,” said Jim Wharton, CEO of Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo. “Red pandas are an endangered species, and his arrival represents not only an exciting addition to our animal residents, but also our continued commitment to wildlife conservation and education.”

The red panda population in the wild is estimated to be fewer than 10,000, and their numbers are declining due to habitat loss, climate change, and other threats. Through the SSP and collaborations with partners like the Red Panda Network, zoos across the country are working to raise awareness and protect this incredible species.

Pilatus quickly became a beloved figure at Chattanooga Zoo, where his departure was marked by a heartfelt send-off celebration. “We are grateful to Chattanooga Zoo for the excellent care and dedication they’ve given him,” said Wharton. “We’re honored to carry that care forward and share Pilatus with our visitors.”

Be sure to follow @ConnecticutsBeardsleyZoo on Facebook and Instagram for updates on Pilatus’ arrival and to see him in person at the Natt Family Red Panda Habitat. Welcome to your new home, Pilatus!

For more information or plan your next visit to the zoo click here https://www.beardsleyzoo.org/.

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Pilatus the red panda relocates to Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo to join Ponya in species conservation effort