Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo Celebrates Ponya the Red Panda’s First Birthday by Throwing “Panda Party” with a Purpose

Bridgeport, CT – Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo is hosting a celebration like no other: a first birthday party for its new resident, Ponya the red panda. The public is invited to help make Ponya’s birthday extra special by supporting a birthday-themed fundraiser to benefit her care and help raise awareness of the endangered species she represents.

Ponya recently arrived from the Detroit Zoo and has quickly become a guest favorite with her playful energy and captivating charm, but her story goes far beyond her adorable appearance. Red pandas are classified as Endangered, with fewer than 10,000 left in the wild due to habitat loss, poaching, and climate change. Every birth and animal transfer coordinated through the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) plays a vital role in preserving the species.
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​The zoo is inviting the community to take part in Ponya’s paw-ty by contributing to her care and enrichment through an impactful donation. Each gift directly supports her daily needs and enhances the quality of life for animals across the Zoo.

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Here’s how supporters can make a difference:

• $10 provides fresh bamboo, Ponya’s favorite daily snack
• $25 helps maintain her habitat, ensuring a safe and stimulating environment
• $50 supports educational tools like panda cams and keeper talks
• $100 funds a full veterinary check-up, keeping Ponya in excellent health

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Donations can be made by texting PandaParty to 41444, or by visiting: fundraise.givesmart.com/e/mhNd2Q?vid=1jx0ck

With each donation, guests become part of the global effort to protect endangered animals. Whether it's $10 or $100, every gift ensures Ponya receives the expert care, engaging enrichment, and protection she, and all wildlife, deserve.

​For more information about this fundraiser or plan a visit to the zoo to see Ponya in-person at the Natt Family Red Panda Habitat click here https://www.beardsleyzoo.org/.