Red panda sent from Taipei Zoo dies in Japan

Taipei, Oct. 3 (CNA) An 8-year-old male red panda sent from Taipei Zoo to Japan last April as part of an overseas breeding program has died from a chest infection, the zoo said Friday.

Named "Ke Sung" (可頌), the animal began showing signs of lethargy in September and was later diagnosed with a chest infection, which led to its death early Thursday at Tokyo's Tama Zoological Park, according to Taipei Zoo.

Ke Sung was treated for breathing difficulties and briefly showed signs of recovery in late September, but later suffered a loss of appetite, declining strength, and reduced activity, the zoo said.

Further tests revealed fluid buildup in the chest, and despite intensive medical care from the Japanese veterinary team, the red panda could not be saved, it added.

Ke Sung, born at Taipei Zoo on June 11, 2017, was sent to Tokyo's Tama Zoological Park in April 2024 as part of a breeding program coordinated by the Japanese Association of Zoos and Aquariums, due to its calm temperament and unpicky eating habits.

The red panda has been listed as "endangered" on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List since 2015.