Fireworks may bring joy to many humans, but for animals, they can be terrifying and even deadly. Bright lights and loud noises trigger panic in sensitive species, sometimes with fatal consequences. Such was the case at Edinburgh Zoo, where a baby red panda succumbed to stress caused by nearby fireworks, highlighting the urgent need for action.
On November 14, Edinburgh Zoo announced the heartbreaking loss of Roxie, a three-month-old red panda cub, who died on November 5—Guy Fawkes Night, when fireworks displays are traditional in the UK. According to the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS), Roxie choked on her vomit, likely a reaction to the overwhelming noise.
“Although Roxie had access to her den, the terrifying sounds appear to have been too much for her,” explained Ben Supple, deputy chief executive of RZSS. This tragedy came just days after the death of Roxie’s mother, Ginger, whose passing may also have been linked to fireworks-related stress.
Red pandas, listed as endangered by the IUCN since 2015, face numerous threats including habitat loss and poaching. Their populations have declined by 50% over the past two decades, making every loss a devastating blow to conservation efforts.
In response, RZSS has called for stricter regulations on fireworks, urging the UK and Scottish governments to limit their sale and use. “We support banning public fireworks sales, allowing only organized displays to minimize distress to animals,” said Supple. This measure would protect not only zoo animals like Roxie but also pets and wildlife across the country.
The call for change has gained widespread support: a public petition advocating for tighter firework controls garnered over one million signatures and was recently presented to the UK government.
Sadly, Roxie’s death is not an isolated incident. Fireworks have caused the deaths of countless animals worldwide, including dogs spooked into fatal accidents and birds killed in mass panics during displays. On holidays like New Year’s Eve or the Fourth of July, many pets go missing as they flee in terror.
While it is too late to save Roxie, her story has become a rallying cry for change. Advocates hope this tragedy will spur governments to take decisive action to prevent more animals from suffering the same fate.