River Wonders Welcomes New Red Panda Yaffa Ahead of National Day Weekend Debut

River Wonders is welcoming a new resident just in time for Singapore’s National Day weekend, with 11-year-old male red panda Yaffa set to make his public debut at a newly built exhibit in the Yangtze River zone.

Yaffa arrived from Taipei Zoo on 11 June 2026 as part of an animal exchange programme between the two institutions. His arrival marks the first new red panda to join River Wonders in 12 years. He will join Karma, the park’s long-time resident red panda currently living at Giant Panda Forest.

Following his arrival in Singapore, Yaffa underwent a month-long quarantine and a comprehensive health assessment that included weight checks, a physical examination, ultrasound, X ray and blood tests. The assessments found him to be in good health.

Since completing quarantine, Yaffa has been gradually settling into his new surroundings under the care of his keeper team. As a senior red panda at 11 years old, his care programme includes regular monitoring of his health and mobility to support his wellbeing and comfort.

The new red panda exhibit has been designed around the species’ natural behaviours and tree dwelling lifestyle. It features a combination of natural and artificial logs, tree trunks and elevated platforms, with perches positioned at accessible heights and connected by gentle gradients to allow Yaffa to move around comfortably.

The fully enclosed and climate-controlled habitat is maintained below 25°C throughout the year, recreating the cooler conditions of the high-altitude forests where red pandas are found in the wild.

The exhibit consists of two connected areas, with an overhanging log crossing allowing Yaffa to move between the spaces. Visitors will also be able to observe him from an indoor viewing area without a glass barrier.

Since moving into the exhibit, Yaffa has been exploring the climbing structures and familiarising himself with the space, while also discovering his preferred spots for resting.

The red panda exhibit is being developed in two phases, with each phase designed to accommodate one red panda. A second separate exhibit is currently under construction.

Red pandas are native to Asia and are classified as Endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List. Fewer than 10,000 are estimated to remain in the wild, with populations continuing to decline due to habitat loss, poaching and the illegal pet trade.

Yaffa’s arrival contributes to ex situ conservation efforts for the species and supports efforts to strengthen genetic diversity among managed red panda populations in the region.

Visitors planning to see Yaffa during the National Day weekend can also take advantage of exclusive savings available to local residents through WildPass, Mandai’s complimentary digital membership.

Until 31 August 2026, WildPass members can enjoy up to 30 per cent off the 2 Attraction Pass, with prices starting from S$44 for children and S$59 for adults. Seniors aged 60 and above can also visit Singapore Zoo, Night Safari, River Wonders, Bird Paradise, Rainforest Wild Adventure or Exploria for S$25 per attraction.

For those looking for year-round access, Friends of Mandai membership offers unlimited annual visits, with prices starting from S$265.