Famous UK zoo slams fireworks after terrified red panda chokes on vomit and dies

A famous UK zoo has slammed the use of fireworks after a terrified three month old red panda died from the noise of the explosions.

Experts claim Roxie, a baby red panda at Edinburgh Zoo choked on her own vomit and died because of her reaction to fireworks in the area.

Veterinary experts at the wildlife conservation charity, which runs the zoo, said a link between the death of the endangered animal and fireworks being let off across the city centre was “likely”.

Ben Supple, RZSS deputy chief executive, said: “Roxie had recently lost her mum Ginger but was responding well to specialist care from our expert team and was feeding independently.

“Very sadly, she choked on her vomit on Bonfire Night and our vets believe this was probably a reaction to fireworks.

“Roxie had access to her den but the frightening noises seem to have been too much for her. We are also concerned that fireworks cause stress to other animals in the zoo.”

The charity added it was possible that the death of the cub’s mother, Ginger, just five days earlier might also be linked to the noise from the fireworks.

And now Supple is urging the Scottish and UK governments to tighten laws on fireworks, including supporting calls from welfare charities for a ban on their sale to the public as they “can cause fear and distress for pets, livestock and animals in zoos”.

Scottish community safety minister Siobhian Brown said: “Fireworks are very distressing for animals and this is sad news.

“I have written to the UK Government asking for a meeting to discuss what more can be done on fireworks regulations and will also continue to engage with partners to discuss what further action may be considered.”

Edinburgh Western MSP Alex Cole-Hamilton said: “This is extremely sad news. These are rare and beautiful creatures.

“The scenes across Edinburgh over the last few weeks have been anarchic and troubling.

“It’s time to look at whether a ban on noisy and disruptive fireworks is necessary.”

In August, Edinburgh became the first Scottish council to vote for a ban on the use of fireworks in certain parts of the city around Bonfire Night.

Anyone setting off a private firework during the restrictive period would be committing a criminal offence.