ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — The Western North Carolina Nature Center shared sad news on social media today after Phoenix, a 14-year-old red panda, passed away after a recent decline in health.

The WNC Nature Center wrote in a 9:02 a.m. Facebook post today, Tuesday, June 9 that Phoenix had been with the park since late 2018, when he arrived from Lincoln Park Zoo.

“During his time here, he introduced countless members of the Asheville community to red pandas and served as an important ambassador for his species,” the WNC Nature Center wrote. “His handsome face, sweet disposition and gentle nature made him a favorite among guests. He will be deeply missed by our staff, volunteers, members and everyone who had the opportunity to know him.”

According to the post, Phoenix was nearly 15 years old, “a remarkably long life for a red panda.”

The WNC Nature Center is also home to a female red panda, BB, who is reportedly doing well. The post stated that red pandas are naturally solitary animals and that guests of the zoo will continue to be able to spot her in her habitat.

Visiting the WNC Nature Center

The WNC Nature Center is open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily at 75 Gashes Crk Rd. For tickets and more information, visit www.wildwnc.org/plan-your-visit.