The Himalayan Zoological Park (HZP) in Bulbuley, Gangtok, has announced the birth of two red panda cubs on 15 June 2025 to parents Lucky(II) and Mirak, the pair’s first litter.

This marks a major success in HZP’s Red Panda Conservation Breeding Program, especially after a seven-year gap in births due to Canine Distemper outbreaks.

Launched in 1997, the program has focused on building a healthy genetic lineage through national and international collaboration.

Red pandas breed in winter, with cubs born in hidden nests between June and August.

Notably, both parents helped build the nest, rare for the species, though the mother alone raises the cubs.

The cubs will remain off-display until mature and will be closely monitored for future breeding plans. This birth is seen as a hopeful sign for red panda conservation in Sikkim.

Synopsis

Event: Birth of two red panda cubs

Date of Birth: 15 June 2025

Location: Himalayan Zoological Park (HZP), Bulbuley, Gangtok, Sikkim

Parents: Lucky(II) and Mirak (first litter)

Context:

• First successful red panda birth at HZP in seven years
• Previous gap due to Canine Distemper outbreaks that affected the captive population
• Part of HZP’s Red Panda Conservation Breeding Program, initiated in 1997

Program Highlights:

• Began with red pandas from Rotterdam Zoo and Darjeeling Zoo
• Strengthened in 2005 with wild-origin pair, Lucky and Ram
• Cubs tracked via national/international studbooks to ensure genetic diversity
• Male participation in nest-building observed, unusual for the species

Current Status:

• Cubs are being raised off-display to prevent disturbances
• Will remain with the mother for over a year
• Monitored for health and breeding compatibility in the future

Significance:

• Major milestone for red panda conservation in Sikkim
• Symbol of hope and resilience for the species and the program