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- calendar_today October 12, 2026
Smithsonian National Zoo Launches Naming Poll for Red Panda Cub
The Smithsonian National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute is turning to the public for help in choosing a name for its newest addition: a female red panda cub. Born on June 11 to red panda parents Keahi and Rocket at the zoo's Front Royal campus in Virginia, the cub is ready to be named and make her debut as a celebrated member of the conservation program.
Background: Red Panda Birth at Front Royal Campus
The birth of the female red panda cub comes as part of an exciting period at the Smithsonian's conservation campus. The four-month-old cub was born shortly after two additional cubs, one male and one female, were also welcomed at the facility. All families currently reside at the Front Royal campus, although this location is closed to the public.
Animal Care Team Presents Name Options
The animal care team responsible for the wellbeing of the cub has narrowed the list of possible names down to three, and they are asking for community input in making the final decision. The name choices were shared by the Smithsonian in a recent social media post, reflecting inspirations from music, language, and conservation efforts.
- Dolly: Inspired by the late Dolly Parton, widely known as the "Queen of Country."
- Pyra: Derived from the Greek word for "heat."
- Dolpa: Named for a region in Nepal that is home to wild red pandas. The AZA's SAFE Red Panda Program is currently working in this area to aid in red panda conservation.
How to Vote in the Public Naming Poll
Those interested in participating in the red panda naming can cast their vote through the Smithsonian's online public naming poll. The poll allows individuals to choose one of the three names suggested by the animal care team. Votes are being collected to help the team select an official name for the young female red panda.
Vote for the red panda cub's name here.
Conservation Efforts Highlighted in Naming Choices
The inclusion of the name "Dolpa" serves as a nod to red panda conservation initiatives, particularly those associated with the AZA SAFE Program. By referencing the Dolpa region of Nepal, where these programs are actively working to protect red pandas in the wild, the Smithsonian highlights the importance of conservation alongside community engagement.
Red Pandas at the Smithsonian's Conservation Campus
While the Front Royal campus remains closed to the public, the birth of multiple red panda cubs underscores the Smithsonian National Zoo's ongoing role in species preservation and the promotion of red panda awareness. The public naming poll fosters a connection between the wider community and the zoo's conservation efforts, helping to shine a light on the species and its needs in the wild and in care.
Source: dcnewsnow.com.
