Kiryu Gaoka Zoo in Japan’s Gunma Prefecture held a special farewell event on May 25 for Lime, a male red panda scheduled to be transferred to another zoo as part of a breeding and conservation program.
Despite taking place on a weekday, around 100 fans visited the zoo to see Lime one last time and listen to stories shared by his caretakers.
During the event, Lime was presented with a special ice cake decorated with apples and loquats. The red panda delighted visitors as he eagerly ate the frozen treat.
Keeper Sae Saiga reflected on Lime’s arrival at the zoo in 2022 and described his cheerful and playful personality.
“He helped many people discover the charm of red pandas,” she said.
Among the visitors was 10-year-old Matoi Nakayama from Koga City in Ibaraki Prefecture, who said he visits the zoo several times each year.
“I was lucky to come because today was a school holiday after our sports festival. His fluffy ears were so cute,” he said excitedly.
Visitors will be able to see Lime until May 26. On May 27, he will be transferred to Izu Shaboten Zoo in Shizuoka Prefecture, where he will be paired with a female red panda as part of a breeding initiative.
