Families heading to Paradise Park this autumn have someone new to look out for. Freyja, a young female red panda, has just arrived from Copenhagen Zoo in Denmark – and she’s already exploring the tree at the heart of her new enclosure.
Born on 5th July 2025, Freyja is the first of two young red pandas allocated to the park through the coordinated breeding programme for this endangered species. A young male from France, Rollo, is expected to join her any day now.
The park’s Curator, David Woolcock, said: “Freyja arrived a few days ago and has already spent time exploring her new enclosure and large tree. We are leaving her travel crate in place while she settles in at her own pace. She is curious, calm and already winning hearts behind the scenes – and we hope visitors will enjoy spotting her as she becomes more confident in her new home.”
Keeper Emma named her after Freyja, the Norse goddess of love, beauty and magic. The name pairs neatly with Rollo, a figure from Norse history with strong links to Normandy – a fitting nod to the pair’s origins in Denmark and France.
Red pandas are skilful climbers with thick russet fur, expressive faces and long bushy tails, which makes them a favourite with visitors of all ages. They are endangered in the wild, where habitat loss and fragmentation are among the threats they face. Paradise Park supports carefully managed breeding efforts that help maintain healthy red panda populations and raise awareness of this remarkable species.
There’s a second red panda to look for, too. Jai-Li, a long-standing resident, turned 15 in June. She arrived at Paradise Park in 2012 as a one-year-old and has raised seven cubs as part of the breeding programme. She’s now an older panda, though she continues to do well and remains one of the park’s best-loved animals.
