A jury, made up of representatives from both the Tierpark and 1. FC Union Berlin, decided in favour of combinations chosen by both Union fans and Tierpark visitors.

“We are very pleased that over 700 name suggestions have been submitted to us. This is a great testament to how many people have already embraced our little Red Pandas,” said Tierpark and Zoo Director Dr. Andreas Knieriem. “Each young animal is an important contribution to the protection of this highly endangered species. Especially because their natural habitat in the Himalayas is increasingly fragmented, the breeding program we are participating in holds special significance.”

Union's footballers of the year win again

The combination of Lisa and Freddy quickly established a clear early lead in the voting, with Freddy also one of the most popular suggestions among the Tierpark fans. The names, taken from the newly crowned Union footballers of the year, Lisa Heiseler and Frederik Rönnow, were well received on all sides, leading to a quick consensus between all parties. The middle names Hari and Kumar are commonly used first names in the South Asian homeland of the Red Pandas. Hari means golden or sun, while Kumar can be translated as prince. 

1. FC Union Berlin have been the official patron of the Red Pandas at Tierpark Berlin through their foundation “UNION VEREINT. Schulter an Schulter” for five years. “We are delighted that our sponsorship is lovingly reflected in the names of the two young animals. Now we hope to visit Lisa and Freddy at the Tierpark as soon as possible, preferably together with the namers,” said Christian Arbeit, Chairman of the Foundation.

Conservation at Tierpark Berlin

Red Pandas initially weigh only about 100 grams, and are blind and helpless. They first open their eyes at about five weeks. Adult Red Pandas reach a length of about 100 cm from nose to tail tip, with a weight of four to six kilograms. The first three months of their lives are spent in the birthing den.

Mother panda Rosie lovingly takes care of her offspring. She still doesn’t allow the little ones to take a step alone. Only in a few weeks will Lisa and Freddy begin to explore their home independently. With a bit of luck, however, you can occasionally observe Mama Rosie in the outdoor area carrying her young cubs around.

According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), Red Pandas are classified as highly endangered. Their natural habitat in the mountainous regions of Nepal, India, Bhutan, Myanmar, and China is increasingly being fragmented, which greatly hinders genetic exchange between populations. Therefore, every single offspring is even more significant as part of international conservation breeding programs, and the annual World Red Panda Day serves as a reminder of how important the protection of this fascinating species is.