LANSING, Mich. (WLNS)-- Potter Park Zoo announced on social media that the newly born red panda has passed away.

The zoo says the cause of death is unknown. The red panda was born on July 5, 2025, to mother Maliha and Father Deagan-Ried.

Zoo officials say that red panda offspring are fragile, with an approximately 40% neonatal mortality rate. Neonatal mortality rate is the number of deaths in the first 28 completed days of life per 1000 live births in a given year, according to the World Health Organization.

The zoo says the cub had been steadily gaining weight, was alert, and appeared to be thriving prior to a sudden decline in its health.

"This is a very difficult loss for our team, and we hope the community will keep those who cared for this young animal in their thoughts," the zoo

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