Edinburgh Expands Firework Bans After Red Panda Deaths at Zoo

Edinburgh is expanding its firework control zones (FCZs) to nine neighbourhoods this year, more than doubling the areas covered, in response to concerns about fireworks causing stress to animals and vulnerable people. The decision follows the deaths of two red pandas at Edinburgh Zoo in 2024, a mother and her three-month-old baby, which are believed to have been linked to the stress from fireworks during Bonfire Night. The FCZs, which prohibit the use of fireworks between October 31 and November 9, were first introduced in select areas last year and have received overwhelming public support. The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland welcomed the expansion, emphasizing the importance of protecting not only zoo animals but also pets, livestock, and wildlife. Council members highlighted that the new zones were based on community requests and aim to improve safety and reduce disorder, as police dealt with serious incidents in some areas during last year’s celebrations. Officials also support calls to ban public sales of fireworks, advocating for only drone or light shows at organised events to further mitigate risks.