Zoo looks to public for help naming red panda cub

Zoo officials are looking for help naming this female red panda cub. (photo courtesy of Assiniboine Park Zoo)

The Assiniboine Park Zoo is asking for the public’s help naming a colourful panda cub.

The female red panda cub was born in late June at the zoo and officials are still trying to pin down a name for her.

Four options are on the table. Zhin, which means treasure, Kiah, which means from the beautiful place, Anika, which means graceful or beautiful and Mya, which means emerald are the options.

The zoo has set up a Facebook page for people to vote on a name for the cub. People interested in weighing in on the decision can also visit Toucan Ridge in the zoo between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. Saturday to vote.

The naming coincides with International Red Panda Day.

On Saturday, the zoo will be offering a number of free activities for families to help raise awareness for the species. Kids can become certified Red Panda Rangers and can meet with zoo keepers to learn about how the pandas are cared for.

The poll will remain open until 9 p.m. Monday.

The cub is one of three pandas at the zoo – including Rufus and Rouge, the cub’s parents.