Share Paradise Park celebrates birth of red panda twins

Keepers at Paradise Park are celebrating the safe arrival of Red Panda twins, the first births of the species at the West Cornwall park since 2001.

Classed as a vulnerable species, their numbers in the wild are estimated to be under 10,000; it makes the arrival of the newborns all the more important and highlights the fantastic conservation projects which take place at the park, based in Hayle.

It came as little surprise for the keepers at Paradise Park, who had suspected the mother, Jai-Li, was pregnant after they realised she had began to put weight on. It was an event which couldn't be missed by the red panda keeper Donna Sinclair, who herself had gone on maternity leave on the same day before being called back in so she could ensure their safe arrival.

Likely to be reared by the park staff for a few weeks before being moved to their pen, they are sure to be a fantastic sight for those enjoying their holidays in St Ives nearby this summer.

Image Credit: Ariel Orphelia (commons.wikimedia.org)