Red panda twins Billy and Bobby entered the world

Red panda twins have given birth at ZooParc Overloon. They are a male and a female, which the keepers have given the names Billy and Bobby.

The twins are doing well. "Billy and Bobby were born in June in a litter, where they currently reside. We leave the cubs, father Bangbang and mother Bahini alone as much as possible. In a while, Billy and Bobby will start exploring their outdoor enclosure," said head zookeeper Steven van den Heuvel.

DeforestationThe population of the red panda in the wild is declining rapidly, making this species endangered. This is due in part to habitat disappearance, forcing these animals to seek other areas and making them vulnerable to danger. In addition, a lot of food is also disappearing due to deforestation.

"The red panda is also hunted because of their fur. To ensure a healthy population of these animals in zoos in Europe, there is a management program, also called a breeding program. With the birth of Billy and Bobby, we are contributing to this," Van den Heuvel says.

Red Panda NetworkZooParc Overloon is committed to the preservation of the red panda not only through its management program. The park is affiliated with Stichting Wildlife, a foundation that supports various conservation projects. One of those projects is the Red Panda Network.

The Red Panda Network protects the red panda and their habitat in the Himalayan Mountains through education and collaboration with local people. Stichting Wildlife sponsors the RPN Forest Guardians, local people who are paid to network within their communities to protect red panda habitat.

Mountain ForestsThe red panda is found in the eastern Himalayan Mountains and southwestern China. There, these animals live in mountain forests. Red pandas prefer to stay near a flowing river from which they can drink. They feed on bamboo, fruit and flowers.

This species can be recognized by its red or maroon fur, apart from white edges on the ears and white patches on the cheeks, above the eyes and around the muzzle. A broad, dark stripe runs down from the eyes. The red panda's tail has light and dark rings, and serves as camouflage and to keep the animals balanced.