Baby Red Panda Dies After Stressed Reaction to 'Frightening Noises' from Nearby Fireworks, Zoo Says

The Edinburgh Zoo revealed on Thursday, Nov. 14, that veterinary experts believe the three-month-old panda named Roxie died from stress caused by fireworks

A baby red panda has died after having a stressed reaction to fireworks, according to zoo officials.

On Thursday, Nov. 14, Edinburgh Zoo revealed in a statement that veterinary experts believe the three-month panda called Roxie died on Nov.5 from stress caused by fireworks that were let off.

With the tragedy taking place on the UK’s bonfire night celebration, which sees a night of bonfires and fireworks displays, the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) has called for tighter restrictions on fireworks.

“Roxie had recently lost her mum Ginger but was responding well to specialist care from our expert team and was feeding independently,” Ben Supple, RZSS deputy chief executive, said in the statement.

Supple added, “Very sadly, she choked on her vomit on bonfire night and our vets believe this was probably a reaction to fireworks.”  

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“Roxie had access to her den but the frightening noises seem to have been too much for her,” the executive continued.

He added that the fireworks may have contributed to Roxie’s mother Ginger's death, which occurred five days before.

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The release went on to point out that a petition — which had been signed by over one million people — was delivered to the UK Government last week and called for tighter restrictions on the use of fireworks.

“Fireworks can cause fear and distress for pets, livestock and animals in zoos, so it is essential that the UK and Scottish governments tighten restrictions on their sale and use,” Supple said.  

He added, “We support calls from animal welfare charities to ban the sale of fireworks to the public, with only light displays being permitted at organized events. This would help avoid devastating consequences for animals like Roxie while ensuring that people can still enjoy traditional celebrations.”