Taipei Zoo

"Chi-Chi" (nickname "Yaffa"), a male red panda from Taipei Zoo, departed from Taiwan on the evening of June 10 and arrived safely at the quarantine facility at Singapore Zoo in the early hours of June 11. Upon arrival, Yaffa Chi-Chi quickly began exploring his new surroundings and soon started eating. Through this red panda transfer with Singapore Zoo, Taipei Zoo is working together with its partner to maintain the population size and genetic diversity of this endangered species for ex-situ conservation in the Southeast Asian region.

Taipei Zoo previously cared for 12 red pandas (7 males and 5 females). Among those of breeding age, most are descendants of Huan-Huan, Mei-Ke, and Ya-Ya from the Fuzhou Panda World. Red panda "Chi-Chi" (Yaffa) is the offspring of Huan-Huan and Ya-Ya. To ensure the long-term health of its red panda population, Taipei Zoo actively collaborates with zoos around the world through red panda transfers and exchanges. Introducing new bloodlines helps prevent inbreeding, makes more effective use of available holding space, and maintains a healthy population size, age structure, and genetic diversity.

The red panda is one of the species managed under the Global Species Management Plan (GSMP) of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA). As a participant in the Red Panda Conservation Program, Taipei Zoo coordinated with Singapore Zoo to transfer the 10-year-old male red panda "Chi-Chi" to Singapore. Both zoos selected the most suitable individual after carefully considering age, sex, and bloodline. Keepers also devoted considerable effort to training Chi-Chi to enter his transport crate calmly, helping ensure a smooth journey for this naturally sensitive species. Through continued collaboration in red panda husbandry, veterinary care, and conservation research, the two zoos hope to support the healthy breeding and long-term conservation of the species.