The Miller Park Zoo team is saddened to announce the loss of their male red panda, “Burma”, yesterday morning.
Recently, animal care staff had observed some lethargy and slight behavioral changes in Burma. The veterinary team conducted a full physical/medical evaluation, including bloodwork. Test results showed that Burma was experiencing health issues due to changes related to his adrenal glands, similar to Addison’s disease in dogs. This type of condition renders an individual susceptible to external stressors, and treatment was initiated immediately. Burma was able to enjoy the clear weather with staff and visitors over the weekend, however, our animal care professionals found him deceased in his habitat Monday morning.
He was immediately transported to the vet team for a necropsy examination. While we are yet unsure what event triggered his unexpected loss, it was directly related to the health crisis we were treating. Adrenal issues can result in other internal system failures, including cardiac events. We will be sending samples for pathology testing, though further results may take several weeks to receive.
Burma and his sister, “China”, were born here at the Miller Park Zoo in 2019. Both animals are part of the Association of Zoos & Aquariums’ (AZA) Species Survival Plan (SSP) for red pandas. Burma was described by one of his keepers as “grumpy and impatient,” always wanting his favorite bamboo and chunks of apple handed to him. Burma participated in a voluntary training program, learning how to climb onto a scale for recording his weight, while allowing visual exams by staff to assess overall health. Burma was greatly loved by staff and volunteers; his loss has had tremendous impact on the team. MPZ thanks the City and community for their support through this difficult event.
China will remain in her habitat at the zoo, under close observation from her professional caregivers. She is still included in the SSP population management program, and the zoo will await future decisions on potential reproductive pairings for her. MPZ remains dedicated to her health and wellbeing, along with all our other animals.
Photo credit: Seasonal Zookeeper Maya Cain
