Heartbreak as child crimson panda dies of ‘firework fright’ at Edinburgh Zoo
The death of a baby red panda is being linked to explosions on Bonfire Night.
Edinburgh Zoo vets have blamed the death of three-month-old panda kit Roxie on her reaction to fireworks in the local area.
Wildlife conservation charity the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS), which owns Edinburgh Zoo, said Roxie choked on her own vomit.
Ben Supple, RZSS deputy chief executive, said: ‘Roxie had recently lost her mum Ginger but was responding well to specialist care from our expert team and was feeding independently.
‘Very sadly, she choked on her vomit on Bonfire Night and our vets believe this was probably a reaction to fireworks.
‘Roxie had access to her den but the frightening noises seem to have been too much for her. We are also concerned that fireworks cause stress to other animals in the zoo.’
Roxie the three month old Red Panda died on Bonfire Night at Edinburgh Zoo
Veterinary experts believe Roxie died due to stress caused by fireworks in the city centre
Roxie had recently lost her own mother shortly after she was born but had been responding well
Mr Supple called on the Scottish and UK governments to tighten regulations on fireworks and backed a ban on their sale to the public.
He said: ‘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.’
Scottish community safety minister Siobhian Brown said: ‘Fireworks are very distressing for animals and this is sad news.
‘I have written to the UK Government asking for a meeting to discuss what more can be done on fireworks regulations and will also continue to engage with partners to discuss what further action may be considered.’
A UK Department for Business and Trade spokesperson said: ‘We endeavour to keep pets and the public safe and that’s why we launched a new fireworks safety campaign this season to help people use them safely and appropriately.’
