Key Takeaways
- Sundar, a 12-year-old red panda, was euthanized at Te Nukuau Wellington Zoo due to declining health and ongoing pain from a hip condition and age-related dental disease.
- Red pandas typically live between 8-10 years in the wild, but can live longer in human care, with Sundar being considered elderly at 12 and a half years old.
- Sundar was a beloved animal and a popular ambassador for his species, meeting thousands of visitors and helping to build understanding and support for conservation efforts.
- The zoo is now home to two red pandas, Khusi and Ngima, and may look to bring in another red panda in the future as part of the international breeding programme.
- Red pandas are classified as endangered, with an estimated wild population of around 2,500, and habitat loss remains the biggest threat to their survival.
Introduction to Sundar’s Story
Sundar, a beloved red panda at Te Nukuau Wellington Zoo, passed away at the age of 12 after his health declined due to a hip condition and age-related dental disease. The decision to euthanize Sundar was not taken lightly, but was made in the interests of his welfare, as his arthritic changes in his hips were increasingly affecting his ability to climb, a vital behavior for the largely tree-dwelling species. According to Acting Animal Care Manager Rob Harland, Sundar’s age and health issues made it difficult for him to behave in a species-typical way, and the zoo staff felt it was the kindest thing to do.
Sundar’s Life and Legacy
Sundar arrived at Wellington Zoo from Auckland Zoo over 11 years ago as part of an international conservation breeding programme for the endangered species. During his time at the zoo, he became a father, with his son Ngima born at the zoo in a rare and celebrated breeding success. Sundar was also one of the zoo’s standout animal ambassadors, particularly through the Close Encounter programme, where he met thousands of visitors, including prime ministers and other well-known guests. Harland described Sundar as an "incredible ambassador for his species," who helped people learn about red pandas and build understanding and support for conservation efforts.
The Importance of Conservation Efforts
Red pandas are classified as endangered, with an estimated wild population of around 2,500. Habitat loss remains the biggest threat to their survival, with many populations living in remote and politically complex regions. Harland emphasized the importance of the work done in zoos, which helps build understanding, knowledge, and support for conservation efforts in the wild. The international breeding programme, which Sundar was a part of, plays a crucial role in conserving the species and increasing the population. By participating in this programme, Wellington Zoo is contributing to the conservation of red pandas and helping to ensure the long-term survival of the species.
The Zoo’s Response to Sundar’s Passing
The zoo staff is mourning the loss of Sundar, with many keepers and veterinarians having cared for him for over a decade. Harland described the week following Sundar’s passing as "sad" for the team, and acknowledged that saying goodbye to a beloved animal is never easy. However, the zoo staff is taking time to grieve and prioritize the welfare of the remaining animals, including Khusi and Ngima, Sundar’s breeding partner and son. The zoo may look to bring in another red panda in the future as part of the international breeding programme, but for now, the focus is on caring for the remaining pandas and continuing the important conservation work.
The Future of Red Panda Conservation
The loss of Sundar serves as a reminder of the importance of conservation efforts and the role that zoos play in protecting endangered species. Wellington Zoo’s participation in the international breeding programme and its commitment to providing a safe and nurturing environment for red pandas are crucial steps in ensuring the long-term survival of the species. As Harland noted, the work done in zoos helps build understanding, knowledge, and support for conservation efforts in the wild, and is essential for protecting species like the red panda. By continuing to care for Khusi and Ngima, and potentially bringing in another red panda in the future, Wellington Zoo is helping to make a positive impact on the conservation of this endangered species.