Get ready for a cuteness overload!
The Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute in Front Royal, VA welcomed seven red panda cubs over the past 30 days, and they're beyond adorable!
In newly released footage, the tiny furballs — born to mothers Nutmeg, Regan, and Leo Mei — are being hand-reared by the institute's animal care team. (While Nutmeg is successfully raising her two cubs, the other five need additional care in order to survive.)
"Our animal care team is always hopeful that new moms will raise their own cubs, but that's not always possible," a spokesperson for SCBI said in a press release.
Keepers made the decision to hand-rear the cubs to give them the greatest chance of survival. Despite their challenging upbringing, all of the babies are healthy and growing stronger each day. These adorable little cuties are seen being hand fed, which happens seven times a day, and even enjoying nap time. Plus, their sweet little squeaks will make you squeal.
The red pandas are part of the SCBI's Species Survival Program. The animals are endangered and victims of deforestation and poaching. In order to help save the red panda species, many zoos around the world have increased conservation efforts.
Enjoy! And please SHARE this adorable video with your friends to spread awareness about red pandas and help the conservation effort.
