Lincoln Park Zoo

Lincoln Park Zoo Releases New Photos of Adorable Red Panda Cubs

Clark and Addison, named in honor of the Chicago Cubs, were born on June 26

Just before their two-month birthday, the Lincoln Park Zoo released new photos of its adorable twin red panda cubs.

Clark and Addison, named in honor of the Chicago Cubs, were born on June 26. They were the first-ever red panda cubs born at the Lincoln Park Zoo.

On Tuesday, the cubs had their second physical exam, and zoo staff used the opportunity to snap a few photos to show their growth.

Since their last exam on July 10, Clark has doubled in weight and Addison has nearly tripled her weight, according to the zoo. They have also both passed several important milestones, including nursing, opening their eyes and changing their fur color from pale yellow to auburn.

"The red panda cubs continue to be healthy and curious of their surroundings," Mark Kamhout, the curator of mammals at the zoo, said. "With this behavior we anticipate the cubs will be ready to make their public debut within the next several weeks."

As the cubs continue to grow, their mother, 5-year-old Leafa, will stay with them in an off-exhibit den. Their father, Phoenix, meanwhile, remains in the public viewing area.

Red pandas look more like raccoons, but are actually not related to raccoons or the better-known giant pandas. They are native to the Himalayan mountains, where they are considered “vulnerable” due to habitat loss and poaching.
 

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