MARWELL Zoo had to euthanase its only red panda following a period of illness.
The zoo, in Colden Common, said goodbye to the female red panda Mei Mei on Monday, February 27.
Mei Mei, who was nine years old, started to show signs of illness last week so vets made the difficult decision to put her down after further signs of discomfort.
The news follows the unrelated death of her male companion, Peter, in October, meaning there are no red pandas left at Marwell.
READ MORE: Marwell Zoo: Critically Endangered mountain bongo born
A spokesperson said: “They will both be very sadly missed by everyone at Marwell.
“We fully intend to bring this species back into the park as soon as possible after the current movement restrictions, placed upon us as a result of the recent Avian Influenza outbreak, are lifted.
“We are expecting a decision on this in coming weeks.”
Born at Welsh Mountain Zoo in 2013, Mei Mei arrived at Marwell in 2014 and was described as a “firm favourite amongst guests young and old thanks to her endearing looks and personality”.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here