Female red panda arrives at UK zoo for ‘blind date’ | The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentIndependentSwipe for next articleIndependent Bulletin homepageDownload our appAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleHolly PatrickFriday 27 March 2026 14:33 GMTAdorable red panda arrives at UK zoo for 'blind date'A female red panda named Akashi has arrived at Chester Zoo for a "blind date" as part of conservation efforts.Two-year-old Akashi was chosen as a suitable companion for the zoo's male panda, Koda, based on her age, health, and genetics.The initiative aims to help save the endangered red panda species.Footage shows Akashi exploring her new habitat and meeting Koda for the first time.Dave White, team manager at the zoo, stated that initial interactions have been positive, with hopes for the pair to form a strong bond and potentially have cubs.In fullEndangered red panda arrives at UK zoo for ‘blind date’Thank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in