09/01/2026
The Potawatomi Zoo is inviting the community to help name their male red panda cub. The three name options, chosen by Potawatomi Zoo staff, are Clifford (after the big red dog), Russet (like the potato), and Pabu (a Tibetan word that means “son,” but also colloquially means puffball).
To participate, people can donate at least $5 on the zoo’s website, potawatomizoo.org/animal/red-panda, through the end of September 17, 2026. The name that raises the most money will become the red panda cub’s permanent new name. The winning name will be announced on September 19, 2026, which is International Red Panda Day. Proceeds from the naming contest will be donated to the Red Panda SAFE, a framework for conservation through the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. To learn more about the Red Panda SAFE and its program plan, visit aza.org/safe-species
All online donors will also be entered into a drawing to win a red panda plush and two passes to the Potawatomi Zoo, chosen at random.