EDINBURGH Zoo has demanded action to curb private sales of fireworks after vets blamed them for the death of a baby red panda.

Owners of the zoo, the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS), say three-month-old Roxie died as a reaction to fireworks on Bonfire Night.

RZSS’s Ben Supple said: “Roxie had recently lost her mum Ginger but was responding well.

“Very sadly, she choked on her vomit on Bonfire Night and our vets believe this was probably a reaction to fireworks.

“Roxie had access to her den but the frightening noises seem to have been too much for her.

“Fireworks can cause fear and distress for pets, livestock and animals in zoos, so it is essential that the UK and Scottish governments tighten restrictions on their sale and use.”

Scottish Green MSP Maggie Chapman said: “This must be the final straw.

“It’s time for all parties to work together to deliver a ban on private sales.”

SNP community safety minister Siobhian Brown responded: “Fireworks are very distressing for animals and this is sad news.

“We have provided local authorities with powers to designate firework control zones, which ban the use of fireworks in local areas.”