Grief in the Leipzig zoo: Red Panda Zimai died - what now?
Grief in the Leipzig zoo: Red Panda Zimai died - what now?
The Leipzig Zoo has suffered a painful loss. The popular red Panda Zimai, who died at the age of 15, was the last known specimen of its kind in the zoo, which reinforced the importance of his death.
grief for a special resident
Zimai, the secret star of the zoo, lived in the picturesque high mountain landscape of Himalaya. His enclosure was a popular starting point for visitors who often came to his feeding. The connection that the guests had built to him was particularly touching, especially after the loss of his partner Lila in the previous year. This emotional bond makes the loss even more painful for many zoo visitors.
The importance of death for animal welfare
The death of Zimai is not only a sad event for the Leipzig zoo, but also throws a light on the endangered Situation of the red Pandas worldwide. These animals have a life expectancy of around ten years in the wild, while Zimai was 15 years old - a sign of successful care and breeding in the zoo. According to the WWF, there are only fewer than 10,000 red pandas worldwide, which makes it an endangered way.
outlook on the future attitude
The Leipzig zoo plans to continue the attitude of red pandas, even if no new pandas will not collect in Zimais enclosure for the foreseeable future. The zoo is in contact with the European Conservation Breeding Program (EEP) to discuss future breeding options and ensure that these fascinating animals will remain part of the zoo in the future.
a big loss for the community
The sad news about Zimai's death has sustainably touched the community of zoo visitors and animal lovers in Leipzig. The red panda was not only an attraction for families and children, but also played a role in education about endangered animal species. Zimai's departure reminds us of how important the protection of species is threatened by extinction.
The Leipzig Zoo will do everything possible to preserve the memory of Zimai and to promote the preservation of this special way.