Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium's red panda, Kovu, died, the zoo announced.
The adorable little fellow passed away at nine, whose innocent antics brought joy to visitors and staff alike.
Red Panda Kovu, at Pittsburgh Zoo, Dies
Red Panda male cub 'Bambo' (L) and his mother 'Lobke' stroll through their enclosure at the zoo in Dresden, eastern Germany on December 5, 2014. The animal was born on July 12, 2014.
The Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium is mourning the loss of its beloved red panda, Kovu. The nine-year-old animal died on Sunday evening after a brief illness.
As per ABC News, Kovu touched the hearts of countless animal lovers and panda enthusiasts since he first arrived at the Pittsburgh Zoo in 2015 from Columbus. The Pittsburgh Zoo says that red pandas typically have a life expectancy of 10 years when in zoos.
The cause of Kovu's death has not been released. However, the Zoo and Aquarium disclosed that Kovu exhibited unusual behavior last Friday. And as such, they brought Kovu to the zoo's veterinary hospital for further examination and proper treatment.
Despite their best efforts to provide him with the utmost care, the red panda's declined quickly, leading to his unfortunate death. The zoo says Kovu received ample supportive care until his untimely passing.
Red pandas, known for their striking colors and engaging personalities, have earned a special place in the hearts of animal lovers worldwide. Kovu's presence added a layer of charm to the Pittsburgh Zoo, drawing visitors from near and far to glimpse his playful antics and endearing demeanor.
The zoo says red pandas are native to the Himalayan Mountains range. However, these cute little fellows grapple with threats in their native bamboo forest amid habitat loss. It is worth noting that the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) listed the red pandas as endangered species.
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Pittsburgh Zoo Pays Tribute to Kovu
A red panda looks on on a branch of a tree in the Branfere animal park in Le Guerno, western France, on July 30, 2023.
In a recent Facebook post, the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium announced the passing of its beloved red panda. "We are deeply saddened to announce the death of our male red panda, Kovu."
Pittsburgh Lead Keeper Ray Bamrick narrates that "Kovu was 'Mr. Cool' from the beginning." He recalled that the red panda "was one of the most confident and friendly animals at the Zoo."
We are deeply saddened to announce the death of our male red panda, Kovu.
— Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium (@PghZoo) July 31, 2023
Kovu will be missed by visitors and Zoo staff alike. We appreciate the support of the community.
Learn more: https://t.co/ip0fBFLtUB pic.twitter.com/p5wAHPilVX
WPXI reports that Bamrick further stressed the crucial role of Kovu in the zoo. The Lead Keeper says, "Kovu was here as a representative for his endangered wild cousins. He did such a wonderful job of raising excitement, awareness, and compassion."
The Pittsburgh Zoo extended its gratitude to zoogoers, encouraging them to share their captured moments and memories with their beloved red panda. Despite the passing of Kovu, his female habitat mate, Xia, will continue to greet zoo guests. As per WTAE's reports, Kovu arrived in the zoo as their second red panda, following the arrival of Xia in 2013.
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