Birmingham Zoo Mourns Loss Of Parker The Red Panda

BIRMINGHAM, AL — One of the Birmingham Zoo's most popular animals died unexpectedly over the weekend. Birmingham Zoo officials said Parker, the 4-year-old red panda, was found dead Sunday morning with no obvious physical injuries or any indication of illness.

Birmingham Zoo veterinary staff performed a necropsy (post-mortem exam) on Parker, which did not reveal an obvious cause of death.

“Parker’s test results are pending,” said Birmingham Zoo Director of Animal Health, Dr. Stephanie McCain. “We hope to know more information in the coming weeks. Parker’s passing is very heartbreaking. He was a great red panda and a favorite of many—he will be greatly missed by all of us.”

“The passing of Parker the red panda is a devastating loss for not only our staff and volunteers but also for our guests who loved him,” says Birmingham Zoo President & CEO, Chris Pfefferkorn. “Parker was an amazing red panda and a beloved member of our zoo family. He always received the best care and attention from our Animal Care staff, and he was quite adept at participating in husbandry training and learning new behaviors that greatly assisted with his care. Parker holds a special place in our hearts, and he will be deeply missed.”

The Birmingham Zoo is also home to a 9-year-old female red panda named Sorrel, who Zoo Animal Care Professionals and the veterinary team report is doing well with no indications of illness, zoo officials said.