The Bedford Estates, LondonThis month marks a special day for one of the Park's most loved residents - red panda Mali, who celebrated her 7th birthday!
Keepers Lily and James put together a panda-tastic ‘cake’ for the female red panda, complete with carrot ‘candles’ and lots of bamboo decorations.
Despite their best efforts, Mali was a little hesitant about her unexpected birthday treat...
After a careful inspection (and a few sniffs here and there) she decided she would leave her ‘cake’ for later and would much rather tuck into her favorite food – bamboo!
Mali arrived at the Park in 2017 and has become a firm favorite among keepers and visitors ever since.
The word ‘panda’ is actually derived from the Nepalese word ‘ponyo’ meaning 'bamboo or plant eater'. Which is very fitting, as this leafy green makes up the majority of the red panda diet - and it's clearly one of Mali's favourites!
Want to peek at a panda? Look up!
Mali can often be seen resting in her shelter nests or climbing along the treetop balance beams in her Himalayan Heights enclosure – using her big, bushy tail for balance!
Look out for her on your next visit!
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