Red pandas are adapted to cool temperate forests and have specific thermal and habitat requirements. Meeting these needs in zoo environments is essential for good welfare.
Red panda welfare in captivity depends critically on environmental temperature management and provision of appropriate arboreal habitat. Heat stress is a significant welfare risk in warm climates without adequate cooling. Red pandas spend most active time in trees, and insufficient climbing structures result in abnormal ground-dwelling behaviour indicating poor welfare. Small, naturalistic exhibits with dense vegetation, extensive climbing opportunities and shade meet welfare needs more effectively than large barren enclosures.