Lake Superior Zoo Mourns Loss of Pip, One-Year-Old Red Panda

DULUTH, Minn. — The Lake Superior Zoo is grieving the unexpected loss of one of its residents.

Pip, a one-year-old female red panda from Massachusetts, was found deceased overnight on Friday, August 2nd.

Pip was new to the zoo, having arrived on April 8th. She had joined fellow female red panda Zoozee.

On the night of the incident, camera footage shows Pip entering her den around 10 p.m., after which she did not emerge.

Prior to this, the zoo reports that there were no signs of unusual behavior or other concerns.

Pip has been taken to the University of Minnesota for a pathological examination, with results expected in the weeks ahead.

In the meantime, animal care staff are closely monitoring Zoozee, who remains in good health.

The zoo believes this was an isolated incident and will continue to support the red panda species survival plan, including considering recommendations for new companions for Zoozee.