RED PANDA (Ailurus fulgens) CARE MANUAL CREATED BY THE AZA Red Panda Species Survival Plan® IN ASSOCIATION WITH THEAZA Small Carnivore Taxon Advisory Group
Red Panda (Ailurus fulgens) Care ManualPublished by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums in association with the AZA Animal WelfareCommitteeFormal Citation:AZA Small Carnivore TAG (2012). Red panda Care Manual. Association of Zoos and Aquariums, SilverSpring, MD. pp. 90.Authors and Significant contributors:Sarah Glass, Knoxville Zoo, North American AZA Red Panda SSP CoordinatorBarbara Henry, Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical GardenMary Noell, Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, AZA North American Red Panda Studbook KeeperJan Reed-Smith, M.A., Columbus Zoo and AquariumCeleste (Dusty) Lombardi, Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, AZA Small Carnivore TAG (SCTAG) ChairMiles Roberts, Smithsonian’s National ZooJohn Dinon, Humane SocietyReviewers:Mark Edwards, Cal Poly San Luis ObispoSandy Helliker, Edmonton Valley ZooChris Hibbard, Zoo and Aquarium Association, Australasia Red Panda CoordinatorCindy Krieder, Erie ZooSue Lindsay, Mesker Park ZooMike Maslanka, Smithsonian’s National ZooAZA Staff Editors:Maya Seaman, AZA ACM InternCandice Dorsey, Ph.D., Director, Animal ConservationCover Photo Credits:Lissa BrowningDisclaimer: This manual presents a compilation of knowledge provided by recognized animal expertsbased on the current science, practice, and technology of animal management. The manual assemblesbasic requirements, best practices, and animal care recommendations to maximize capacity forexcellence in animal care and welfare. The manual should be considered a work in progress, sincepractices continue to evolve through advances in scientific knowledge. The use of information within thismanual should be in accordance with all local, state, and federal laws and regulations concerning thecare of animals. While some government laws and regulations may be referenced in this manual, theseare not all-inclusive nor is this manual intended to serve as an evaluation tool for those agencies. Therecommendations included are not meant to be exclusive management approaches, diets, medicaltreatments, or procedures, and may require adaptation to meet the specific needs of individual animalsand particular circ*mstances in each institution. Commercial entities and media identified are notnecessarily endorsed by AZA. The statements presented throughout the body of the manual do notrepresent AZA standards of care unless specifically identified as such in clearly marked sidebar boxes.
Red Panda (Ailurus fulgens) Care Manual Table of ContentsIntroduction ................................................................................................................................................. 5 Taxonomic Classification ......................................................................................................................................5 Genus, Species, and Status .................................................................................................................................5 General Information ...............................................................................................................................................5Chapter 1. Ambient Environment .............................................................................................................. 7 1.1 Temperature and Humidity.............................................................................................................................7 1.2 Light ...................................................................................................................................................................7 1.3 Water and Air Quality ......................................................................................................................................7 1.4 Sound and Vibration ........................................................................................................................................8Chapter 2. Habitat Design and Containment ............................................................................................ 9 2.1 Space and Complexity ....................................................................................................................................9 2.2 Safety and Containment ............................................................................................................................... 11Chapter 3. Transport ................................................................................................................................. 14 3.1 Preparations ................................................................................................................................................... 14 3.2 Protocols ......................................................................................................................................................... 14Chapter 4. Social Environment ................................................................................................................ 16 4.1 Group Structure and Size ............................................................................................................................. 16 4.2 Influence of Others and Conspecifics ......................................................................................................... 16 4.3 Introductions and Reintroductions .............................................................................................................. 17Chapter 5. Nutrition ................................................................................................................................... 18 5.1 Nutritional Requirements .............................................................................................................................. 18 5.2 Diets................................................................................................................................................................. 21 5.3 Nutritional Evaluations .................................................................................................................................. 25Chapter 6. Veterinary Care ....................................................................................................................... 27 6.1 Veterinary Services ....................................................................................................................................... 27 6.2 Identification Methods ................................................................................................................................... 29 6.3 Transfer Examination and Diagnostic Testing Recommendations ........................................................ 30 6.4 Quarantine ...................................................................................................................................................... 30 6.5 Preventive Medicine ...................................................................................................................................... 31 6.6 Capture, Restraint, and Immobilization ...................................................................................................... 32 6.7 Management of Diseases, Disorders, Injuries and/or Isolation .............................................................. 33Chapter 7. Reproduction .......................................................................................................................... 35 7.1 Reproductive Physiology and Behavior ..................................................................................................... 35 7.2 Assisted Reproductive Technology ............................................................................................................ 35 7.3 Pregnancy and Parturition ............................................................................................................................ 36 7.4 Birthing Facilities ............................................................................................................................................ 36 7.5 Assisted Rearing............................................................................................................................................ 37 7.6 Contraception ................................................................................................................................................. 41Chapter 8. Behavior Management ........................................................................................................... 42 8.1 Animal Training .............................................................................................................................................. 42 8.2 Environmental Enrichment ........................................................................................................................... 42 8.3 Staff and Animal Interactions ....................................................................................................................... 44 8.4 Staff Skills and Training ................................................................................................................................ 44 9.1 Program Animal Policy ................................................................................................................................. 45 9.3 Program Evaluation ....................................................................................................................................... 46Chapter 10. Research ............................................................................................................................... 47 10.1 Known Methodologies ................................................................................................................................ 47 10.2 Future Research Needs ............................................................................................................................. 48Chapter 11. Additional Information ......................................................................................................... 49 Association of Zoos and Aquariums 3
Red Panda (Ailurus fulgens) Care Manual 11.1 Additional Information ................................................................................................................................. 49Acknowledgements .................................................................................................................................. 50References ................................................................................................................................................. 51Appendix A: Accreditation Standards by Chapter ................................................................................ 53Appendix B: Acquisition/Disposition Policy .......................................................................................... 56Appendix C: Recommended Quarantine Procedures ........................................................................... 60Appendix D: Program Animal Policy and Position Statement ............................................................. 62Appendix E: Developing an Institutional Program Animal Policy ....................................................... 66Appendix F: Small Carnivore Medical Management Guidelines .......................................................... 71Appendix G: AZA Small Carnivore TAG Necropsy Protocol ................................................................ 78Appendix H: Instructions for Measuring Body Size in Relation to Weight ......................................... 83Appendix I: Cub Feeding Chart ............................................................................................................... 87 Association of Zoos and Aquariums 4
Red Panda (Ailurus fulgens) Care Manual Introduction PreambleAZA accreditation standards, relevant to the topics discussed in this manual, are highlighted in boxessuch as this throughout the document (Appendix A).AZA accreditation standards are continuously being raised or added. Staff from AZA-accreditedinstitutions are required to know and comply with all AZA accreditation standards, including those mostrecently listed on the AZA website (http://www.aza.org) which might not be included in this manual.Taxonomic ClassificationTable 1: Taxonomic classification for red panda Classification Taxonomy Kingdom Animalia Phylum Chordata Class Mammalia Order Carnivora Suborder Caniformia Family AiluridaeGenus, Species, and StatusTable 2: Genus, species, and status information for red pandas Genus Species Supspecies Common USA Status IUCN Status AZA Status Name Ailurus fulgens fulgens Red Panda Not Listed Vulnerable SSP refulgens Lesser Panda Not Listed Vulnerable SSP (styani) FirefoxGeneral Information The information contained within this Animal Care Manual (ACM) provides a compilation of animalcare and management knowledge that has been gained from recognized species experts, including AZA ®Taxon Advisory Groups (TAGs), Species Survival Plan Programs (SSPs), Studbook Programs,biologists, veterinarians, nutritionists, reproduction physiologists, behaviorists and researchers. They arebased on the most current science, practices, and technologies used in animal care and managementand are valuable resources that enhance animal welfare by providing information about the basicrequirements needed and best practices known for caring for ex situ red panda populations. This ACM isconsidered a living document that is updated as new information becomes available and at a minimum ofevery five years. Information presented is intended solely for the education and training of zoo and aquarium personnelat AZA-accredited institutions. Recommendations included in the ACM are not exclusive managementapproaches, diets, medical treatments, or procedures, and may require adaptation to meet the specificneeds of individual animals and particular circ*mstances in each AZA Accreditation Standardinstitution. Statements presented throughout the body of themanuals do not represent specific AZA accreditation standards of (1.1.1) The institution must comply with all relevant local, state, and federal wildlifecare unless specifically identified as such in clearly marked laws and regulations. It is understoodsidebar boxes. AZA-accredited institutions which care for red that, in some cases, AZA accreditationpandas must comply with all relevant local, state, and federal standards are more stringent thanwildlife laws and regulations; AZA accreditation standards that are existing laws and regulations. In these cases the AZA standard must be met.more stringent than these laws and regulations must be met (AZAAccreditation Standard 1.1.1). The ultimate goal of this ACM is to facilitate excellent red panda management and care, which willensure superior red panda welfare at AZA-accredited institutions. Ultimately, success in our red panda Association of Zoos and Aquariums 5
Red Panda (Ailurus fulgens) Care Manualmanagement and care will allow AZA-accredited institutions to contribute to red panda conservation, andensure that red pandas are in our future for generations to come.The red panda, Ailurus fulgens fulgens and A. f. refulgens (styani), while still something of a taxonomicenigma, is currently accorded separate familial status (Ailuridae) (Roberts & Gittleman, 1984).Morphological and physiological adaptations of Ailurus are specialized for a high altitude temperateenvironment and a bamboo diet. The red panda has dense pelage (extending to the soles of the feet) anda low metabolic rate. It also has the capability to reduce its metabolic rate without lowering its bodytemperature apparently as a conservative energetic strategy. The dentition of Ailurus follows the generalprocyonid pattern, but exhibits significant molar hypertrophy and inclusion of supernumerary molar cuspsand cusplets that enlarge occlusal surface area presumably to aid in the mastication of bamboo (Roberts& Gittleman, 1984).Ailurus lives in the montane mixed deciduous-conifer forests of the Himalayas and the major mountainranges of southwestern China. It is solitary, nocturnal, and scansorial, coming to the ground to eatbamboo and retires to the trees to sleep and nest. It is well adapted morphologically and physiologicallyto a consistently cool and moist environment. While the red panda feeds primarily on bamboo, its diet ismore seasonally variable than the giant panda, another bamboo specialist, in that berries, fruits and evenyoung leaves and bark are eaten. While it occasionally captures birds and small vertebrates, its diet isconsiderably more herbivorous than that of the procyonids, which are true omnivores (Roberts &Gittleman, 1984). There are two recognized subspecies, fulgens and refulgens (previously designated as styani).Fulgens are found in the western part of the red panda’s range, including India, Nepal and Myanmar.Refulgens (styani) are found in the eastern part of the range, primarily China. Fulgens tend to be thesmaller of the two species with lighter pelage notably the face. Fulgens also have sharper looking profile.Average weights for fulgens are from 4.5–5.5 kg (10–12 lbs). Refulgens (styani) average 6.5–7.5 kg (14–16.5 lbs). Please see Appendix I for a calculation worksheet to help determine an appropriate weight foryour individual. ® The red panda zoo population has been designated as a Species Survival Plan (SSP) Program bythe AZA Small Carnivore Taxon Advisory Group (TAG), and a target population size has been set at 275(AZA Small Carnivore TAG Regional Collection Plan, 2009). The 2011 population is 182 specimensdistributed among 72 AZA institutions. Association of Zoos and Aquariums 6
Red Panda (Ailurus fulgens) Care Manual Chapter 1. Ambient Environment1.1 Temperature and Humidity Animal collections within AZA-accredited institutions must be AZA Accreditation Standardprotected from weather detrimental to their health (AZAAccreditation Standard 1.5.7). Animals not normally exposed to (1.5.7) The animal collection must be protected from weather detrimental tocold weather/water temperatures should be provided heated their health.enclosures/pool water. Likewise, protection from excessive coldweather/water temperatures should be provided to those animals normally living in warmer climates/watertemperatures. Temperatures at the upper range are of more concern with red pandas then thermal lows, therefore,some part of the enclosure should be in shade throughout the day, particularly when temperature isabove 23.8 °C (75 °F) (Roberts, 1980). Indoor housing or access to an insulated nest box should beprovided where winter temperatures drop below -6.6 °C (20 °F). In areas of extreme cold, supplementalheat should be provided in indoor housing and/or nest boxes. Ideally, these areas should be maintainedbetween 1.6 °C (35 °F) and 23.8 °C (75 °F). Red pandas should be given access to their outdoor exhibitat all times (Roberts & Glatston, 1988). Nest boxes should be placed in areas which are in the shade when the temperature exceeds 23.8 °C(75 °F). Zoos subject to hot summer months should provide access to air conditioned holding or nestboxes and should be provided when temperatures get above 26.6°C (80 °F) (especially with high humidity) and for pregnant AZA Accreditation Standardfemales. Misters are also sometimes provided to keep the (10.2.1) Critical life-support systems foranimals cool (Roberts & Glatston, 1994). Heat stress in red the animal collection, including but notpandas is greatly exacerbated by high humidity. Air-conditioned limited to plumbing, heating, cooling,indoor holding or nest boxes should be provided where aeration, and filtration, must be equipped with a warning mechanism, andtemperatures get above 26.6 °C (80 °F) especially with high emergency backup systems must behumidity. available. All mechanical equipment AZA institutions with exhibits which rely on climate control should be under a preventativemust have critical life-support systems for the animal collection maintenance program as evidenced through a record-keeping system. Specialand emergency backup systems available, while all mechanical equipment should be maintained under aequipment should be included in a documented preventative maintenance agreement, or a trainingmaintenance program. Special equipment should be maintained record should show that staff membersunder a maintenance agreement or records should indicate that are trained for specified maintenance of special equipment.staff members are trained to conduct specified maintenance (AZAAccreditation Standard 10.2.1).1.2 Light Careful consideration should be given to the spectral, intensity, and duration of light needs for allanimals in the care of AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums. Red pandas should be housed in outdoor exhibits with access to inside quarters if climacticconditions (e.g., extreme heat, rain, or excessive cold) warrant it. Animals should never be locked inholding quarters for extended periods of time (1 month or more, unless a mother with cubs) thereforeartificial lighting is not required. If for some reason, such as in quarantine, animals are kept inside, daynight cycles should be set to provide photoperiod similar to that at 40 degrees latitude.1.3 Water and Air Quality AZA-accredited institutions must have a regular program of AZA Accreditation Standardmonitoring water quality for collections of aquatic animals and a (1.5.9) The institution must have a regularwritten record must document long-term water quality results and program of monitoring water quality forchemical additions (AZA Accreditation Standard 1.5.9). collections of fish, pinnipeds, cetaceans, and other aquatic animals. A writtenMonitoring selected water quality parameters provides record must be maintained to documentconfirmation of the correct operation of filtration and disinfection long-term water quality results andof the water supply available for the collection. Additionally, high chemical additions.quality water enhances animal health programs instituted foraquatic collections. Association of Zoos and Aquariums 7
Red Panda (Ailurus fulgens) Care Manual Red pandas are a terrestrial species that do not require water systems. However, fresh water shouldbe available to all animals at all times of day. Care should be taken so that sufficient water is availableand freezing is avoided. When there is no fresh potable water available in the exhibit, sturdy bowls thatare not easily inverted are usually suitable for providing water. Animals with restricted water intake willalso decrease food intake, so the availability of fresh water is very important (Roberts & Glatston, 1994). Air exchange rate needs are not generally applicable since red pandas are usually housed outdoors.If kept indoors, a variable speed ventilation system capable of providing 10 air exchanges per hour isrecommended.1.4 Sound and VibrationConsideration should be given to controlling sounds and vibrations that can be heard by animals in thecare of AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums. At this time, it is unknown for red pandas what the tolerances are for sound and vibration, however, aswith any wildlife, those disturbances should be kept to a minimum. Noise should be minimized before andafter parturition. If air conditioning is used, the unit should be on at least one month prior to parturition toallow for acclimation. Some individuals benefit from background noise from televisions or radios. Association of Zoos and Aquariums 8
Red Panda (Ailurus fulgens) Care Manual Chapter 2. Habitat Design and Containment2.1 Space and Complexity Careful consideration should be given to exhibit design so AZA Accreditation Standardthat all areas meet the physical, social, behavioral, andpsychological needs of the species. Animals should be displayed, (1.5.2) Animals should be displayed, whenever possible, in exhibits replicatingwhenever possible, in exhibits replicating their wild habitat and in their wild habitat and in numbers sufficientnumbers sufficient to meet their social and behavioral needs (AZA to meet their social and behavioral needs.Accreditation Standard 1.5.2). Display of single specimens should be The same careful consideration regarding exhibit size and avoided unless biologically correct for the species involved.complexity and its relationship to the red panda’s overall well-being must be given to the design and size all enclosures,including those used in exhibits, holding areas, hospital, and AZA Accreditation Standardquarantine/isolation (AZA Accreditation Standard 10.3.3). (10.3.3) All animal enclosures (exhibits, In captivity red pandas are nocturnal and crepuscular and holding areas, hospital, andexhibit a polyphasic activity pattern throughout the night. Their quarantine/isolation) must be of a sizeactivity patterns change throughout the year in response to and complexity sufficient to provide for the animal’s physical, social, andtemperature, feeding regimes, and the presence of young psychological well-being; and exhibit(Roberts & Glatston, 1994). Their gross behavioral repertoire enclosures must include provisions for theincludes scent marking behavior, a tendency to maintain personal behavioral enrichment of the animals.distance except during breeding season, the propensity to climband hide from disturbing/frightening elements such as loud noises, natural foraging feeding activities,breeding associated activities, young rearing behaviors, and sleep. To accommodate these behaviors,and others, enclosures should follow these guidelines (Roberts & Glatston, 1994).).Environment: Enclosures should have natural substrate planted with edible grasses and contain avariety of elevations. Red pandas prefer to rest on elevated perches above the level of the viewing public,so attention should be given to furnishing the animals with this possibility by providing a variety ofclimbing structures and resting perches at various locations and heights, in the enclosure. Theenvironment should include rocks, trees, pools, logs, clumps of vegetation etc. These will provide bothadequate shade and facilitate the animals' need to withdraw from the direct gaze of the general public attimes (Roberts & Glatston, 1994). Public access should be restricted to one, or at most two, sides of theenclosure so that animals can retreat from public disturbance (Roberts & Glatston, 1994). Enclosuresshould not be located near aggressive animals, which can disturb the red pandas: a distance of at least50 m (164 ft) between a red panda exhibit and that of a large carnivore is recommended. Also, redpandas should not be situated close to busy traffic routes or noisy gathering places. However, enclosuresize is an important parameter: animals housed in large enclosures can probably tolerate moredisturbance from traffic or the public thanthose in small ones (Roberts & Glatston,1994). Red pandas generally prefer to rest andsleep alone except during breeding season.Exhibits should be designed with thisbehavioral norm in mind. Pairs of pandasshould not be housed closer than 10 m (30ft) from one another. Visual barriers shouldbe placed between adjacent pairs (Roberts& Glatston, 1994).Enclosures require a floor area of at least 2 240 m (~430 ft ), preferably more, andshould be at least 4 m (~12 ft) high or haveclimbing structures of this height (assumingthe enclosure(s) is not entirely open) as redpandas prefer to rest in elevated perchesabove the level of the viewing public. Outdoor exhibit with moat – Mary NoellNatural substrate planted with edible Association of Zoos and Aquariums 9
Red Panda (Ailurus fulgens) Care Manualgrasses is strongly recommended, as animals will graze grasses and forbs; it is recommended that atleast 50% of the enclosure be planted with edible grasses. Provide climbing apparatus for older animalsbut beware: red pandas are escape artists. The size of the enclosure and its location within the zoo should be taken into account when planningpublic access: a large enclosure in a quiet location can have access around a greater proportion of theperimeter than a small enclosure in a busier area. Following parturition red panda females becomeincreasingly intolerant of public disturbance and provision should be made to reduce public disturbanceafter birth (Roberts & Glatston, 1994). For a more natural feeding scenario mechanisms to fasten bamboo to trees, or other uprightstructures should be incorporated into the exhibit. One inch or less diameter PVC pipes arerecommended. Scent marking is important for thisspecies. On the plantar surface of the feetthere are a series of small pores fromwhich small amounts of clear, colorless,and odorless fluid appears. These poresare contained in slightly raised areasbetween the plantar pads, and areassociated with small, slightly elongated,and thickened hairs. The substance,believed to be secreted by these pores, isused in depositing scent trails. Urine andsecretions originating from the anogenitalregion may be other sources of scent. Because of this propensity to marktheir environment, furniture/substrate in redpanda enclosures should be allowed tobuild up scent posts. These areas shouldbe monitored and cleaned on a rotating Fully enclosed exhibit with climbing structures- Mary Noell.basis, however.Barriers: Enclosures may be surrounded by mesh, walls, moats, fences, glass, or any combinationthereof that does not endanger the health and safety of the animals. Red pandas are excellent climbers,but poor jumpers, so dry-moated enclosures contain them well. Red pandas can swim well, so enclosurebarriers need to be constructed with this in mind. Barriers should be at least 1.2 m (4 ft) in height and thesurface should be very smooth or they should be topped with a smooth overhang. Water moats shouldonly be used in combination with other barriers (Roberts & Glatston, 1994). Do not let the branches ofclimbing trees overhang the boundary fence (Roberts & Glatston, 1994). It has not been determined ifhotwire is an effective barrier. Hotwire is used in some cases to keep wildlife from entering the exhibit. Ifused, it should be considered a secondary barrier and should have an alternating current that is no higherthan 6.3 khz. If there are cubs in the exhibit, the hotwire should be turned off or reduced. Barriers function not only to keep the animals in, but also to keep unwanted visitors out. Injury anddeaths can arise when zoo visitors, domestic cats or endemic species such as raccoons or badgers enterred panda enclosures (Roberts & Glatston, 1994). Care should be taken to prevent red pandas fromhaving contact with endemic species or their feces (especially raccoons which in many areas carry caninedistemper).Nest Boxes: A minimum of n+1 (number of red pandas plus one) nest boxes should be provided to allowhiding and sleeping choices for the animals within the enclosure. These should be constructed ofinsulative material and placed at different shaded locations in the enclosure so as to maintain atemperature not to exceed 23.8 °C (75 °F) during hot weather. Some part of the enclosure is to be inshade throughout the day when temperature is above 23.8 °C (75 °F) to provide animals relief from theradiant heat of the sun (Roberts & Glatston, 1994). Nest boxes ranging from 61 cm wide x 91 cm long x 51 cm high, up to 91 cm wide x 127 cm long x 76cm high (24 in. x 36 in. x 20 in., to 36 in. x 50 in. x 30 in.) have been used in North American zoos.Smaller, insulated nest boxes are preferable in cold climates if supplemental heat is not provided. It issuggested that a choice of sizes should be available (Roberts & Glatston, 1994). Association of Zoos and Aquariums 10
Red Panda (Ailurus fulgens) Care Manual An SSP-endorsed survey targeted at all red panda holding facilities was developed, distributed, andanalyzed. The aim of the survey was to elucidate the important components of red panda nest boxes andtheir management during cubbing season. Cub mortality has historically been the greatest threat to thezoo population. The first 30 days are the most critical—and since cubs are nest-bound for that entireperiod (and more) the nest box environment is an important factor to assess. Analyses of the surveyshowed two factors: nest box temperature and keeper access to cubs (location of door where cubs wereremoved for health checks), significantly impacted cub survival. Nest boxes, which maintainedtemperatures less than 23.8 °C (75 °F) during cubbing season, had higher cub survival rates. In addition,those with keeper access doors separate from animal access doors had higher cub survival rates.Nest Box Design Recommendations andSuggestions: • Separate animal entry doors and keeper entry doors. Keeper entry doors should be out of sight of the mother red panda. • Temperature and humidity controlled nest boxes. Temperatures should not exceed 23.8° C (75° F). • Made of materials that are easily cleaned and preferably well insulated. • Provide a source of natural light. • An infrared camera setup to observe mother/cub interactions. • Offer no less than three nest boxes in each enclosure. Example of one type of nestbox – Cindy Krieder • It is good to have nest boxes in shaded areas. • Nest boxes should be away from public areas. AZA Accreditation Standard • Have a way to lock the mother out while the keeper accesses the cubs. (11.3.3) Special attention must be given Wood wool, straw, or other appropriate bedding should be to free-ranging animals so that no undue threat is posed to the animal collection,provided for all nest boxes (Roberts & Glatston, 1994). Red free-ranging animals, or the visitingpandas also will use exhibit plants as nesting material. public. Animals maintained where they will be in contact with the visiting public must be carefully selected, monitored,2.2 Safety and Containment and treated humanely at all times. Animals housed in free-ranging environments should becarefully selected, monitored and treated humanely so that the AZA Accreditation Standardsafety of these animals and persons viewing them is ensured (11.3.1) All animal exhibits and holding(AZA Accreditation Standard 11.3.3). areas must be secured to prevent Animal exhibits and holding areas in all AZA-accredited unintentional animal egress.institutions must be secured to prevent unintentional animalegress (AZA Accreditation Standard 11.3.1). Exhibit design must AZA Accreditation Standardbe considered carefully to ensure that all areas are secure and (11.3.6) Guardrails/barriers must beparticular attention must be given to shift doors, gates, keeper constructed in all areas where the visitingaccess doors, locking mechanisms and exhibit barrier dimensions public could have contact with other thanand construction. handleable animals. Red pandas are adept climbers and swimmers, so enclosurebarriers should be constructed with this in mind. Barriers should be at least 1.2 m (4 ft) in height, and thesurface should be very smooth or they should be topped with a smooth overhang. Water moats shouldonly be used in combination with other barriers. It has not been determined if hotwire is an effective barrier. Hotwire is used in some cases to keepwildlife from entering the exhibit. If used, it should be considered a secondary barrier and should have an Association of Zoos and Aquariums 11
Red Panda (Ailurus fulgens) Care Manualalternating current that is no higher than 6.3 khz. If there are cubsin the exhibit, the hotwire should be turned off or reduced. AZA Accreditation Standard It is important that branches of climbing trees are not allowed (11.2.3) All emergency procedures mustto overhang the boundary fence. be written and provided to staff and, where appropriate, to volunteers. Injury and deaths can arise when zoo visitors, domestic cats, Appropriate emergency procedures mustor endemic species such as raccoons or badgers enter red panda be readily available for reference in theenclosures. Care should also be taken to prevent red pandas event of an actual emergency. Thesefrom having contact with endemic species or their feces procedures should deal with four basic types of emergencies: fire,(especially raccoons, which in many areas carry canine weather/environment; injury to staff or adistemper). visitor; animal escape. Exhibits in which the visiting public may have contact withanimals must have a guardrail/barrier that separates the two (AZA AZA Accreditation StandardAccreditation Standard 11.3.6). (11.6.2) Security personnel, whether staff All emergency safety procedures must be clearly written, of the institution, or a provided and/or contracted service, must be trained toprovided to appropriate staff and volunteers, and readily available handle all emergencies in full accordancefor reference in the event of an actual emergency (AZA with the policies and procedures of theAccreditation Standard 11.2.3). institution. In some cases, it is recognized Staff training for emergencies must be undertaken and that Security personnel may be in charge of the respective emergency (i.e.,records of such training maintained. Security personnel must be shooting teams).trained to handle all emergencies in full accordance with thepolicies and procedures of the institution and in some cases, may be in charge of the respectiveemergency (AZA Accreditation Standard 11.6.2). Emergency drills should be conducted at least once annually for each basic type of emergency toensure all staff is aware of emergency procedures and to identify potential problematic areas that mayrequire adjustment. These drills should be recorded and evaluated to ensure that procedures are beingfollowed, that staff training is effective and that what is learned isused to correct and/or improve the emergency procedures. AZA Accreditation StandardRecords of these drills should be maintained and improvements (11.2.4) The institution must have ain the procedures duly noted whenever such are identified. AZA- communication system that can beaccredited institutions must have a communication system that quickly accessed in case of ancan be quickly accessed in case of an emergency (AZA emergency.Accreditation Standard 11.2.4). AZA Accreditation Standard AZA-accredited institutions must also ensure that writtenprotocols define how and when local police or other emergency (11.2.5) A written protocol should be developed involving local police or otheragencies are contacted and specify response times to emergency agencies and includeemergencies (AZA Accreditation Standard 11.2.5) response times to emergencies. AZA-accredited institutions which care for potentiallydangerous animals must have appropriate safety procedures in AZA Accreditation Standardplace to prevent attacks and injuries by these animals (AZA (11.5.3) Institutions maintainingAccreditation Standard 11.5.3). potentially dangerous animals (sharks, Animal attack emergency response procedures must be whales, tigers, bears, etc.) must havedefined and personnel must be trained for these protocols (AZA appropriate safety procedures in place to prevent attacks and injuries by theseAccreditation Standard 11.5.3). animals. Appropriate response To a large extent, red pandas are not dangerous. However, procedures must also be in place to dealthey are more than capable of protecting themselves. Red with an attack resulting in an injury. Thesepandas do have strong, sharp claws and a very strong bite. They procedures must be practiced routinely per the emergency drill requirementsare capable of causing injury when trying to climb a person like a contained in these standards. Whenevertree. There have been a few cases of red pandas that have injuries result from these incidents, aexhibited aggression towards keepers, and in those cases, the written account outlining the cause of theability to shift the animal to another area for cleaning is incident, how the injury was handled, and a description of any resulting changes torecommended. It is also recommended to train red pandas to go either the safety procedures or theinto a crate, so netting is not necessary. physical facility must be prepared and Animal attack emergency drills should be conducted at least maintained for five years from the date ofonce annually to ensure that the institution’s staff know their the incident.duties and responsibilities and know how to handle emergenciesproperly when they occur. All drills need to be recorded and evaluated to ensure that procedures are Association of Zoos and Aquariums 12
Red Panda (Ailurus fulgens) Care Manualbeing followed, that staff training is effective, and that what is learned is used to correct and/or improvethe emergency procedures. Records of these drills must be maintained and improvements in theprocedures duly noted whenever such are identified (AZA Accreditation Standard 11.5.3). If an animal attack occurs and injuries result from the incident, a written account outlining the cause ofthe incident, how the injury was handled, and a description of any resulting changes to either the safetyprocedures or the physical facility must be prepared and maintained for five years from the date of theincident (AZA Accreditation Standard 11.5.3). Association of Zoos and Aquariums 13
Red Panda (Ailurus fulgens) Care Manual Chapter 3. Transport3.1 Preparations Animal transportation must be conducted in a manner that AZA Accreditation Standardadheres to all laws, is safe, and minimizes risk to the animal(s),employees, and general public (AZA Accreditation Standard (1.5.11) Animal transportation must be conducted in a manner that is safe, well-1.5.11). Safe animal transport requires the use of appropriate planned and coordinated, and minimizesconveyance and equipment that is in good working order. risk to the animal(s), employees, and The equipment must provide for the adequate containment, general public. All applicable local, state,life support, comfort, temperature control, food/water, and safety and federal laws must be adhered to.of the animal(s). Safe transport also requires the assignment of an adequate number of appropriately trainedpersonnel (by institution or contractor) who are equipped and prepared to handle contingencies and/oremergencies that may occur in the course of transport. Planning and coordination for animal transportrequires good communication among all affected parties, plans for a variety of emergencies andcontingencies that may arise, and timely execution of the transport. At no time should the animal(s) orpeople be subjected to unnecessary risk or danger. After capture red pandas should always be weighed. When animals are transferred to a new exhibit/zoo, the tattoo and/or chip should be checked and the gender of the animals should be checked. Red pandas do not need to be sedated during transport. Red pandas should be transported in an IATA recommended crate (50 cm long x 40 cm wide x 45 cm high [19.6 in. x 15.7 in. x 17.3 in.]). One of the short sides of the crate should be made of cage wire for ventilation. Sky kennels or similar airline approved plastic pet carriers work well. Modifications should be made to prevent airport personnel from accidentally opening crates. Any doors of the sky kennel should be secured with zip-ties on all four corners. Mesh Crate used to transport fulgens male to Australia- Cindy Krieder ventilation panels and doors should beloosely covered with an open weave fabric such as burlap to provide privacy without overly restrictingairflow. In the event of a longer journey sliced fruit should be provided. The animal’s normal diet can be sentalong during transport to provide familiar foods. If being transferred to another institution, sufficient food totransition to an alternative diet should be provided as well. Food and water containers should be securelyfastened to the door of the crate with access from the outside to add or refill.3.2 Protocols Transport protocols should be well defined and clear to all animal care staff.Capture: If not already crate trained, red pandas can be safely captured using a net or, if on the ground,a plastic bin can be placed over the animal and then the top slid underneath. One institution developed amethod of trapping red pandas in a perspex tube. The animals were trained to accept food insidewooden nest-boxes, and were then closed inside the box when it was necessary to inject them or handlethem in other ways. Once inside, a translucent metacrilate tube 2.5 m long and about 0.25 m in diameteris attached to the nest-box hole. The small sliding door is removed, and the animal may pass into thecylinder. Both ends of the tube are then closed with pieces of plastic. Since the diameter of the tube does Association of Zoos and Aquariums 14
Red Panda (Ailurus fulgens) Care Manualnot let the animal turn one has access to the red panda's tail and can inject the vaccine or anestheticwhile a keeper grasps the hind legs to avoid injuries to the veterinarian's hands. Usually the wholeprocedure is very fast and within a few seconds the animal is released, either into another box while theanesthetic takes effect, or into the enclosure, depending on the situation (Garcia del Campo andMonsalve, personal communication). Prior to capture it is helpful if the trees are made inaccessible to the animals. This can be achieved bytacking a flexible sheet of plastic, 50 cm (20 in.) wide, around the trunks of the climbing trees. Handrestraint is not recommended.Shipping: Red pandas should always be shipped individually. Each crate should contain a layer of woodwool or similar bedding material. In the event of a longer journey sliced fruit should be provided. Redpandas do not need to be sedated during transport. Red pandas should only be transported in spring or fall, ideally in temperatures between 7.2–15.5 °C(45–60 °F). Association of Zoos and Aquariums 15
Red Panda (Ailurus fulgens) Care Manual Chapter 4. Social Environment4.1 Group Structure and Size Careful consideration should be given to ensure that animal group structures and sizes meet thesocial, physical, and psychological well-being of those animals and facilitate species-appropriatebehaviors. Breeding red pandas should remain together 24 hours per day throughout the year. Exceptions wouldbe in the case of male aggression towards cubs or if the female is denned before parturition. Adult males(>1 year old) are not to be housed together in the presence of a female. Even when no female is present,all male groups can be difficult and are best attempted in large enclosures and should be monitoredclosely. Male siblings who have been together since birth can be usually maintained successfully asgroups in the absence of females. The male may remain in the enclosure with the female after birth unless there are obvious signs thathe is interfering with or inhibiting normal maternal care. Temporary (when no other pairing options areavailable) trios of one male and two females may be assembled for breeding purposes providing that onefemale is separated from the group at least 2–4 weeks prior to parturition (Roberts & Glatston, 1994). Young may remain with the parents at least through the next breeding season and up to one monthprior to the next anticipated birth. Juveniles should not be separated from their parents earlier thanFebruary to ensure proper socialization and weaning. To avoid inbreeding, young should be separatedfrom their opposite sex parent at no older than 18 months. After separation, juveniles and sub-adultsshould remain in social groupings until they are placed in breeding pairs (Roberts, 2002). Every effort should be made to house solitary individuals with similarly aged individuals to ensuresocialization. Pair formation should occur no later than 6 weeks prior to the onset of the forthcomingbreeding season. In the northern hemisphere, the breeding season begins approximately at the beginningof winter (i.e., the end of December).4.2 Influence of Others and Conspecifics Animals cared for by AZA-accredited institutions are often found residing with conspecifics, but mayalso be found residing with other species. Red pandas are typically maintained in single species exhibits.In 2010, the zoos that were holding red pandas at that time were asked if they were or had held pandaswith other species. The following table shows what species have been exhibited with red pandas and anyconsiderations or problems that occurred.Table 4: Species successfully exhibited with red pandas Common Name Scientific Name Considerations / problems Chinese Muntjac Muntiacus reevesi • Both species share the exhibit during the day; the pandas are closed into their shelter and separated from the muntjac overnight. • Need a slow intro- if the red pandas are non-breeders, they will do fine. • A muntjac ended up breaking its leg trying to get out of the exhibit and panicking with people around. • During breeding season for the pandas, pandas sometimes became aggressive. Pandas were aggressive towards Muntjac fawns. Male muntjac sometimes aggressive with pandas. Japanese Koi Cyprinus carpio • No problems White-naped Crane Grus vipio • They all get along very well. Pandas stay up in the tree 90% of the time. Chinese Goral Naemorhedus • Species ignore each other. griseusHuman Interaction: Keepers generally work in enclosures with red pandas, taking care to give theanimals opportunity to avoid them. Physical contact should be avoided as it may stress animals and canlead to aggression. Red pandas should be regarded with caution as they do have sharp claws andextremely strong jaws, and will defend themselves and young. “Unprovoked” attacks on keepers havebeen reported, most commonly with hand raised individuals. Red pandas that show aggression towardskeepers should be shifted so keepers do not have to enter exhibits with them. Scruffing is not an Association of Zoos and Aquariums 16
Red Panda (Ailurus fulgens) Care Manualappropriate or effective means of restraint and could potentially result in serious keeper injury. Redpandas have been successfully trained to enter holding areas or crates, to station on scales and even tohold for injections, palpation, and vagin*l swabs.4.3 Introductions and Reintroductions Managed care for and reproduction of animals housed in AZA-accredited institutions are dynamicprocesses. Animals born in or moved between and within institutions require introduction and sometimesreintroductions to other animals. It is important that all introductions are conducted in a manner that issafe for all animals and humans involved. Red panda introductions rarely result in aggression, but should be done gradually nonetheless. It isbetter to introduce a male to a female once she is established in the enclosure. Gradual introduction (e.g.,olfactory, followed by visual, followed by physical contact) in neutral territory is preferred. Providingdistractions (e.g., bamboo or treats spread through the introduction area) can help ease introductions.Care should be taken to not provide areas where one animal can corner another. Association of Zoos and Aquariums 17
Red Panda (Ailurus fulgens) Care Manual Chapter 5. Nutrition5.1 Nutritional Requirements A formal nutrition program is recommended to meet thenutritional and behavioral needs of all red pandas (AZA AZA Accreditation StandardAccreditation Standard 2.6.2). Diets should be developed using (2.6.2) A formal nutrition program isthe recommendations of nutritionists, the Nutrition Scientific recommended to meet the behavioral andAdvisory Group (NAG) feeding guidelines nutritional needs of all species and specimens within the collection.(http://www.nagonline.net/Feeding%20Guidelines/feeding_guidelines.htm), and veterinarians as well as AZA Taxon Advisory ®Groups (TAGs), and Species Survival Plan (SSP) Programs. Diet formulation criteria should address theanimal’s nutritional needs, feeding ecology, as well as individual and natural histories to ensure thatspecies-specific feeding patterns and behaviors are stimulated.Feeding Ecology and Digestive System Morphology & Physiology: Red pandas are in the orderCarnivora and are the only species in the family Ailuridae. Red pandas have a simple stomach, with nocecum and a short gastrointestinal tract (Stevens & Hume, 1995). These are adaptations for easilydigestible foods that usually form the diet of carnivores (i.e., meat). However in the wild, red pandas havespecialized in a diet of bamboo leaves and shoots that could account for ~95% of the total foodconsumed. In autumn, the diet of in situ red pandas also contains fruits, acorns, and mushrooms (Wei &Zhang, 2011; Wei, 2000; Wei, 1999). In situ, in order to thrive it is suggested the red panda selects high-quality portions of the bamboo like the tender leaves and shoots. However due to a rapid passage rate,they have to ingest large quantities (1.5 kg [3.3 lb] of leaves and 4 kg [8.8 lb] of shoots, as fed) tomaximize nutrient intake and absorption (Wei & Zhang, 2011; Wei, 1999). The simple structure of theirdigestive system limits the ability to process this high fibrous diet. However, to cope with it, red pandashave developed several morphological, physiological, and behavioral strategies: 1) skull and teethadaptations for effective mastication, 2) ability to select the most nutritious parts of bamboo, 3) dailyconsumption of large amounts of food and rapid passage time of digesta to maximize the rate of energyintake, and 4) low metabolic rate that reduces energy requirements (Wei, 1999).Energy: Animals require energy for basal metabolic functions—(vital cell activity, respiration,cardiovascular distribution of the blood), in a resting, unstressed, post-absorptive state, in a thermoneutralenvironment (no shivering or special activity to maintain body temperature). Basal energy expenditure isrelated to body surface; Kleiber (1975) concluded fasting homeotherms produce 1,000 kcal of heat persquare meter body surface. Kleiber (1975) used previously published research to establish the equation70BWkg0.75 to express kilocalories needed per day for basal metabolic functions. Red pandas vary their intake of shoots and leaves relative to seasonal changes both in the wild andin zoos. It was noted by McNab (1988) that the red panda have a low rate of metabolism, which is only39% of the value predicted by the Kleiber equation at ambient temperature of 25–30 °C (77–86 °F). Redpandas have a higher energy requirement in the winter months and probably also in late gestation, duringlactation and especially during growth. During these times the animals should always be fed enough soas to have at least 3% of the total food offered is left uneaten (Nijboer & Dierenfeld, 2011).Seasonal Influence: Increased or decreased requirements for illness, thermoregulation, or activity canbe met by offering diets ad lib. and monitoring body condition. In general diets should be offered so that asmall amount of food is remaining at the end of the feeding period.Body Condition: Wild red panda (Ailurus fulgens) weights range between 3–5 kg (6.6–11 lbs) (Nowak,1999; Macdonald, 1999). Adult A. fulgens (in zoos) with a body weight of between 5–6 kg (11–13 lbs)have been found to consume between 145–200 g of nutritionally complete biscuits (as fed) each day.This represents intake of animals in a maintenance situation, (e.g., when the animals were under littlestress from the weather, not pregnant or lactating, and in the absence of any other food item) (Nijboer &Dierenfeld, 2011). Due to their dense hair coat and body shape, it is difficult to determine a standard bodycondition score for red pandas. Periodic photos taken in the same position, over time, may be helpful topair with weights, as an assessment of body condition. Association of Zoos and Aquariums 18
