Roger Williams Park Zoo Mourns Red Panda Sha-Lei

PROVIDENCE, RI — The Roger Williams Park Zoo has lost a special member of the animal community.

The zoo announced the death of Sha-Lei, their female red panda, on Tuesday morning. Sha-Lei was recently diagnosed with heart failure, one of the red panda's most common causes of death, officials said.

Sha-Lei was born on June 13, 2009, at Valley Zoo in Edmonton and arrived at Roger Williams Park Zoo in January 2013.

"Thanks to the dedication and care of her keepers, Sha-Lei's heart failure was well managed with medications, and the team closely monitored her over the past few months by giving weekly voluntary ultrasounds," zoo officials said.

"But her quality of life declined sharply recently, and the decision was made to euthanize her humanely. Due to the staff's diligence, she exceeded the expected lifespan given by the veterinary cardiologists at the time of her diagnosis."

Red pandas are much smaller than giant pandas and are the only living member of their taxonomic family, zoo officials said. They noted that climate change has impacted red pandas, and there are now less than 10,000 left in the wild.

"The name Sha-Lei is occasionally defined, in part, as 'an idealistic and generous soul, with a strong desire to uplift humanity,' or 'butterfly princess of the meadow,'" said Jenny Theuman, animal services manager. "By simply existing, Sha-Lei uplifted and inspired all who met her through behind-the-scenes tours, profound guest experience programs, or for those lucky enough to provide her care through daily interactions and training sessions. While we mourn her loss, her impact on our world is unmistakable and unforgettable."

The zoo is asking patrons to share photos and fond memories of Sha-Lei on the Zoo’s Facebook page or Instagram page.