Bridgeport, CT – Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo is thrilled to announce the arrival of Pilatus, a one-year-old male red panda traveling from Chattanooga Zoo to join us here in Bridgeport.
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Pilatus, born in June 2024, made the journey north as part of the Red Panda Species Survival Plan (SSP) a nationwide conservation effort to ensure a healthy and genetically diverse red panda population in human care. Pilatus will be paired with Beardsley Zoo’s own female red panda, Ponya, in the Natt Family Red Panda Habitat with the hope that their future together contributes to this important mission.

“We are absolutely delighted to welcome Pilatus to our Zoo family,” said Jim Wharton, CEO of Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo. “Red pandas are an endangered species, and his arrival represents not only an exciting addition to our animal residents, but also our continued commitment to wildlife conservation and education.”

Bridgeport, CT – Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo is thrilled to welcome families to the beloved Teddy Bear Festival on Saturday, July 19, from 10 am to 2pm. This cherished tradition brings joy and education together on a fun-filled day designed especially for children and their favorite stuffed plush. This year, the event also celebrates the exciting arrival of Nicole, a 13-year-old Andean Bear, and new member of the Zoo’s animal family!

The featured highlight of the day is the Teddy Bear Clinic, hosted in partnership with Yale New Haven Children’s Hospital and sponsored by State of Connecticut on behalf of the CHET 529 College Savings Program offering children the chance to bring their plush companions for gentle pretend medical care. Pediatric specialists will be there to greet children through engaging check-ups and bandaging - helping to demystify the healthcare experience in a nurturing and playful setting.