Calls for Firework Restrictions After Panda's Death

The tragic death of three-month-old red panda Roxie at Edinburgh Zoo is being attributed to stress caused by fireworks on Bonfire Night, prompting renewed calls for tighter regulations on their use. Roxie had recently lost her mother and was reportedly responding well to care before she choked on her vomit during the celebrations. The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) noted that fireworks can cause significant fear and distress to animals, leading to their demand for a ban on public sales and only allowing organized displays. Scottish Community Safety Minister Siobhian Brown acknowledged the distress fireworks cause to animals and indicated that the power to designate firework control zones exists, but it is up to the UK government to take further action. Campaigners are pushing for specific restrictions, including limiting noise levels and designating restricted dates for private fireworks use. The incident has highlighted the urgent need for legislative changes to protect animals from the adverse effects of fireworks during public celebrations.