Knoxville TN, September 9, 2025
News Summary
Zoo Knoxville proudly showcases its rare red panda cubs during their public debut. Born to first-time parents Sisu and Doofah, these playful siblings are an exciting addition to the zoo, which has not seen red panda cubs for nearly five years. The cubs’ birth is significant for conservation efforts, highlighting the importance of breeding programs in maintaining the population of this vulnerable species. Visitors can now enjoy watching the adorable cubs explore their habitat and engage in natural behaviors.
Knoxville
Zoo Knoxville celebrated the much-anticipated public debut of its rare red panda cubs on Saturday, February 10, 2026, in the Boyd Family Red Panda Village. The two male cubs, born on June 3, 2025, are the offspring of first-time parents, Sisu and Doofah. This marks a significant moment for the zoo, as it has been almost five years since the last red panda cubs were born there.
Cubs Making Progress
Following a three-month period of being cared for exclusively by their mother in a den, the cubs are now exploring their spacious outdoor habitat. Visitors to the zoo can expect to see these healthy and curious siblings, who have already begun to show signs of climbing and an interest in bamboo. Each cub weighs over a kilogram and exhibits playful energy, though they appear slightly wobbly while practicing their climbing skills.
A Special Birth
This event holds special significance for the zoo, which has celebrated the births of over 110 red panda cubs since its first in 1978. Red panda cubs are considered a rare sight, and their birth is crucial for conservation efforts as the species faces threats in the wild. Zoo Knoxville participates in the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Species Survival Plan (SSP), aimed at maintaining the genetic health of red pandas. This initiative contributes to the long-term sustainability of the species, making every new birth important to wildlife conservation.
Mother’s Care
The zoo’s curator of wild ambassadors commended Sisu for her calm and attentive nature as a first-time mother. Her nurturing instincts have played a vital role in the cubs’ early development and well-being. The cubs do not yet have names, but the zoo plans to announce them in the coming weeks as they adjust to their new public life.
Visit Zoo Knoxville
Zoo Knoxville operates daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is located at 3500 Knoxville Zoo Dr., 37914. Visiting this zoo provides guests with the unique opportunity to witness the charming behavior of red panda cubs, further contributing to awareness and appreciation for wildlife conservation.
Background on Red Pandas
Red pandas, native to the eastern Himalayas and southwestern China, are classified as vulnerable due to habitat loss and poaching. The success of red panda breeding programs in accredited zoos plays a critical role in supporting their populations and engaging the public in conservation efforts. By showcasing these adorable cubs, Zoo Knoxville not only enhances visitor experience but also aids in raising awareness about the plight of red pandas in the wild.
Conclusion
The debut of these red panda cubs is a step forward in the conservation journey, welcoming nature lovers to observe their endearing traits while supporting efforts to protect and preserve wildlife.
FAQ
What are the names of the red panda cubs?
The red panda cubs do not have names yet, but Zoo Knoxville plans to announce them in the coming weeks.
How old are the red panda cubs?
The red panda cubs were born on June 3, 2025, making them approximately eight months old as of February 2026.
When can I see the red panda cubs?
The red panda cubs are now in public view at Zoo Knoxville, and visitors can see them during regular operating hours from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
What is the purpose of Zoo Knoxville’s Species Survival Plan?
The Species Survival Plan aims to maintain the genetic health of red pandas to support their long-term sustainability and assist in conservation efforts.
Key Features Chart
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Species | Red Panda |
| Birth Date | June 3, 2025 |
| Gender | Male |
| Weight | Over 1 kg each |
| Mother | Sisu (4 years old) |
| Father | Doofah (7 years old) |
| Public Debut Date | February 10, 2026 |
| Location | Zoo Knoxville, 3500 Knoxville Zoo Dr., 37914 |
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Additional Resources
- WBIR: Zoo Knoxville Red Panda Cubs Public Debut
- Wikipedia: Red Panda
- WATE: Two Red Panda Cubs Born at Zoo Knoxville
- Google Search: Zoo Knoxville Red Panda Cubs
- Knox News: New Red Panda Cubs at Zoo Knoxville
- Google Scholar: Red Panda Conservation
- Knox TN Today: First Panda Birth in Nearly 5 Years
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Red Panda
- WBIR: Two Red Pandas Born at Zoo Knoxville
- Google News: Red Panda Cubs Zoo Knoxville
Author: STAFF HERE KNOXVILLE WRITER
The KNOXVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKnoxville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Knoxville, Knox County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Dogwood Arts Festival, Big Ears Festival, and Knoxville Asian Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Knoxville Area Chamber Partnership and United Way of Greater Knoxville, plus leading businesses in healthcare, education, and energy that power the local economy such as Covenant Health, University of Tennessee, and Tennessee Valley Authority. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
