Utica Zoo to Host International Red Panda Day

The Utica Zoo is inviting the public to celebrate Red Pandas while learning about the dangers the species faces in the wild.

On Saturday, September 15 more than 100,000 people are expected to gather at more than 60 zoos worldwide to attempt to create as many 'Red Panda Rangers' as possible in one day.

Here's what a 'Red Panda Ranger' is according to the Utica Zoo:

A Red Panda Ranger is a special title given to children who help spread the word about red pandas. Join the Utica Zoo for special activities and presentations from Keepers throughout the day. Bring the kids to become a Red Panda Ranger and meet Muse and Ming-Yue.

But why does awareness need to be raised for Red Pandas?

Because they're very endangered, with as few as 2,500 left in the wild.

Here's more facts from the Red Panda Network:

Contributions received from #IRPD2018 will support RPN’s largest and most comprehensive effort to stop the illegal red panda trade.

Red panda numbers are dwindling in Nepal as poaching and illegal trade is on the rise. The Wildlife Crime Control Bureau of Nepal state that 90% of the nation’s cases related to wildlife crime goes unreported.

Our mission is to reduce the supply and demand by:

• Exposing the illegal red panda supply chain.
• Educating the public on why red pandas must remain alive and wild and reduce the illegal trade demand.

The Utica Zoo's International Red panda Day Celebration will be September 15, from 10 a.m. until 4:45 p.m.

If you're interested in a Red Panda Encounter, the Utica Zoo just announced they have a few spots left for 2018.

BONUS VIDEO