PREVIEW

A red panda has returned to a Scottish wildlife park for the first time in years.

Highland Wildlife Park has welcomed three-year-old Priya, who arrived from Edinburgh Zoo on March 31.

The female has already begun settling into her new purpose-built home, marking the long-awaited return of the species to the park.

Red pandas had previously lived at the attraction, but former residents Kevyn and Kitty were moved to Edinburgh in 2022 while construction took place on a new visitor centre.

The new habitat, created by conservation charity Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS), has been specially designed with the species in mind.

Set on a wooded hillside overlooking the Cairngorms, it includes tall trees and climbing structures to encourage natural behaviours.

Michael Livingstone, carnivore team leader at the park, said: “It’s always exciting to welcome a new animal, but even more so when they are as sweet and well-mannered as little Priya. I’m excited to see our visitors fall in love with her.

“I used to look after Priya at Edinburgh Zoo, so I know her well. It’s wonderful to be reunited and to see her enjoying a new home. The habitat is beautiful, with lots of trees, areas to explore and plenty of space for her to do as she pleases. She’s going to be really happy here.”

Keepers are now preparing to introduce a male red panda in the near future, with hopes of successfully breeding the endangered species.