International Red Panda Day 2025: Date, history and significance

Red Panda Day 2025 (Image: Canva)

The red panda’s bright fur and playful charm have made it a global favourite. Yet this Himalayan animal faces a serious fight for survival.

When is International Red Panda Day observed?
This year, International Red Panda Day will be celebrated on Saturday, 20 September 2025. The day draws attention to the endangered species and calls for urgent conservation action.

The initiative was initially started in 2010 by the Red Panda Network, a Nepalese non-profit organisation. It was with the simple intent of allocating one day each year to raise awareness and make people take action on behalf of the species.

Why does the day matter for conservation?
Red pandas are threatened by dwindling forests, poaching and the illegal pet trade. Their population declined significantly, with less than 10,000 still in the wild. Awareness campaigns assist in generating funds, informing children and aiding forest communities to conserve their environments.

What is special about the red panda?
Famous for their reddish fur and long striped tail, red pandas inhabit Nepal's high forests, India, Bhutan, Myanmar and China. Although they share the same name with the giant panda, they belong to a different family, Ailuridae, with more similarities to raccoons and weasels.

How has the event influenced conservation?
For more than 15 years, International Red Panda Day has become an international phenomenon. Zoos, families and schools on continents participate in activities, events and fundraisers.

Donations have supported reforestation, patrols against poaching and community-led protection programmes in the Himalayas.

Without international support, conservation efforts may crumble. With ongoing global focus, local communities realize that red pandas are more valuable living than dead. The day ensures the rare species is not overlooked.