Bai Yun is back on exhibit and delighting guests.
As we enter fall at the San Diego Zoo, things start to slow down in the Panda Canyon. Bai Yun did not have a cub this year and she is enjoying her alone time. She is back on exhibit, so everyone can visit her in person or through Panda Cam. She’s doing well and is good at reminding her keepers that she is the Queen B (as in Bear). If she doesn’t get her way, she knows how to get her keepers attention by climbing the small elm tree in her exhibit.
Gao Gao has now moved off exhibit but you may sometimes see him on Panda Cam relaxing on his shelf. He is also enjoying his air-conditioned bedrooms and his daily back scratches from his keepers. As Gao Gao ages, we are watching him and monitoring his health more closely. An example of this is his participation of presenting his arm for blood pressure readings once a week. We get important information, and he gets to enjoy his favorite treat of honey water during these training sessions.
Xiao Liwu continues to excel with all his training. He, too, gets his blood pressure read once a week as a comparison to Gao Gao’s readings. He has not had to learn any new behaviors lately, but he has learned to train his keepers. Mr. Wu now asks for several back scratches, just like his dad! He is now considered a subadult and has been having several highly energetic bouts playing with his enrichment toys and destroying plants. He has been testing several tree branches in his exhibit—we find them the next morning. He has turned into a mighty little bear at 157 pounds (71 kilograms) and is almost bigger than his dad, who weighs 169 pounds (77 kilograms).
I hope all of his fans heard that Mr. Wu won the “snowball fight” (a friendly fundraising effort) against the polar bears. We are looking forward to a snow day once the weather gets cooler in San Diego. The date is tentatively set for November 14, but we will keep everyone updated if that day changes.
Jennifer Becerra is a senior keeper at the San Diego Zoo. Read her previous post, Ahoy! Let’s Celebrate Xiao Liwu’s Birthday!
Mr. Wu has grown into a most handsome panda, He is just as adorable as when he was just an infant.. Love that darling panda.
Danielle in San Diego
Good Morning,
Love seeing pictures of Gao Gao,Bai and Mr Wu when I can catch them.Right now enjoying Mr Wu having his bamboo in the hammock he loves
All will be missed when then have to go back.In the meantime I have been enjoying them all for sometimes years really.Thank you for taking such good care with loving kindess not only to the pandas but to all the wildlife in your care at the zoo
Thank you always sharing stories about “Wu Bear” I have watched him from birth and have enjoyed everything about him,along with his coming down the trunks of the trees head first or shaking the tree branches like they are going to break.. I adore all of the Gao-Bai family.Saw Sulin on a special about pandas and she is amazing love them all. Thank for showing the love and kindness you all have not only towards these remarkable
panda but all wild animals in you care.
Nitey nite dear pandas.
Danielle in San Diego
Giant pandas, like ones at San Diego Zoo, are sturdy, resilient creatures. They are well-in-tone with nature.
Good morning dear wonderful gorgeous pandas Gao Gao, Bai Yun and precious Xiao Liwu, and everyone at the San Diego Zoo. It’s pretty cold this morning.. Good thing pandas have thick fur to keep them warm..
Danielle in San Diego
Agree. San Diego Zoo has been involved, in panda care, since 1996. Experience counts.
SDZ pandas are being expertly managed, by a team of professionals here. Why engage in “unnecessary worrying”?
In the wild, pandas know how and where, to seek shelters from weather a/o danger (animal instincts).
Under managed care, at SDZ outdoor exhibit area, there are trees, plus man-made platform cave. Besides, keepers can exercise professional judgement, to move SDZ pandas indoors, if needed.
Gao Gao and Bai Yun precious son Xiao Liwu is a little bit restless this morning.. or he is just exercising! That’s what he is probably doing, while waiting for over an hour and a half or more for his fresh bamboo..
The darling panda Mr. Wu doesn’t realize that the Keepers are very busy and they will bring him fresh bamboo soon..
Right now it looks like he finally got a nice treat, he is so cute eating his food..
Those pandas are so delightful, absolutely wonderful to watch their behavior.. It looks like the camera has switched and it has turned to Bai Yun, there is fresh bamboo there for her to eat.
The camera is moving around so I’ll just stop here and watch the pandas, that has to be Bi Yun with the perfect round ears..
Have a great day dear pandas..
Danielle in San Diego
Thank Goodness that Gao Gao , Bai Yun and precious love Xiao Liwu have thick fur so they can’t get too cold, and can take the cold , the rain,
well, rain is okay when it’s mild, but not when it’s torrents, it uproot huge trees, move buildings , do a lot of damages.. So I don’t think heavy, heavy rain, is good pandas, and I really don’t think any animal on this planet likes torrents, heavy rain, and that goes for pandas.. Thank God the darling pandas have shelter that they can go indoors if they choose to.
Being giant pandas, Bai Yun/Gao Gao/Xiao Liwu, all possess thick oily fur coats. Such endowment guards against moisture penetration, plus provides warmth. Hence, they are well-adapted to both rainy, and snowy weather [Source: ‘Giant Panda Fact Sheet – Physical Characteristics’, San Diego Zoo Global Library].
Hailed from Sichuan highlands, Bai Yun & Gao Gao are well accustomed , to rain plus snow. When time comes (it sure will), Xiao Liwu too, would get to experience both types of natural phenomenon, amidst surroundings of his ancestral home.
Dear pandas and Keepers,
Today was quite a day with all the rain and it’s not over..
Well, Gao Gao, Bai Yun and Xiao Liwu the rain we are having is sure giving you showers..and washing your bamboo..
Take care dear keepers, I’m sending you all good thoughts..Your job must go on rain or no rain right!
Danielle in San Diego
Well, Gao Gao , Bai Yun And Xiao Liwu,
You are now getting your shower and bath and everything else…
It’s pouring, rain, and boy! did we need it..
You guys must feel so good to get a good shower..
We started over there , had to turn around cause the warning of heavy flood warning on the road…
We couldn’t get through..
I hope you darling pandas are having fun in the rain, and when you are tired of it, you can go into your own quarters, (bedroom) if you like..
I bet the Keepers are having a tough time cleaning up and distributing your bamboo, Bless their heart, they love you and even though, it’s pouring rain, they make sure you get your bamboo, rain or shine!!!!!
Love you Pandas , I just LOVE LOVE LOVE you so much…
Danielle in San Diego
Beautiful Bai, munching so contenedly on her bamboo, she’s really is magnificent!
Rosetta – Thanks for the alert, on recent panda videos. With start of 2016, one can also expect fresh panda news, in coming weeks, or months ahead.
Monitor’s note: Just a friendly reminder that the comment section of these blogs is for comments/discussion of the topic of the blog and/or what is seen on San Diego Zoo’s Panda Cam. Please do not discuss news of or information about pandas at other facilities here. For further information, please review our Blog Comment Policy.
Xiao Liwu knows exactly what kind of breakfast he wants.. He showed us yesterday.. He sure can climb so rapidly and run, very agile..
Xiao Liwu is very interesting to watch, I LOVE this darling panda, he will always be a special precious love to me… he is a special gift, “little gift”.
Hi, Rosetta: thanks for notification, on those panda videos.
For those interested: Multiple, recent (12/1/2015, through 1/1/2016) giant panda videos, filmed by DoxieMom, can be viewed at YouTube site.
Day after New Years 2016, and still receiving Christmas cards and New Year cards.. I received cute ones with Bai Yun’s
picture and one of Gao Gaos, and Mr. Wu . Someone took those pictures and send it to me, that was so nice of them, from the blog here..
It was a beautiful day here in San Diego, our weather climbed back up . I saw Mr. Wu taking in the sun, so cute in that tree that he likes to perch himself on.
Hope everyone had a nice day..
Danielle in San Diego
HAPPY NEW YEAR 2016 to everyone here and everyone who are still missing here..
I am hoping for a good year for everyone at the zoo , the people who work there and volunteer, anyone and everyone who has to do with the animals here at the zoo.
Dear Monitor, You especially because you have the difficult job of tending to the posts here and everyone, who comes and go..You don’t know who’s going to be here and who is not..So Happy New Year to You and good health and a prosperous New Year for 2016…
God Bless everyone for those who believe and those who don’t , sending best thoughts…
Happy New year to everyone who come to posts on the blog.
Monitor’s note: Awww, thank you! Here’s to a happy, healthy year for you, as well!
Gao Gao, Bai Yun and Xiao Liwu, may you continue to have a happy , healthy life and sweet dreams to all the animals , Much love Always,
Danielle in San Diego
Happy New Year to all SDZ, Safari Park staff, and fellow bloggers.
Monitor, thank you for the tidbits about Ken and Dixie. I look forward to the blog about them, and hopefully some recent photos of them, too. Can’t wait to see how big young Simba and his best friend Nala have become 🙂 And whenever I saw the meerkats, either in person at SDZ or photos posted on Facebook, I thought Timon 🙂
Happy new year !
I wish this new year be soft and warmhearted, especially for all the pandas’ fans, the keepers, the moderator, the zoo resident animals and our dear panda family but also for all these persons who work here to San Diego Zoo.
And an especially thank for the moderator who takes care of our messages… !
Monitor’s note: Thank you! 🙂 My best wishes for a healthy and happy year for all!
Lindsay,
I LOVE Your image of our dear pandas About Bai Yun and Dear laid back Gao Gao and Our most precious Mr. Wu, I love, love that image you posted about them New Years Eve and the cousins mailed from Edinburgh.. hee!hee! lol
You have a beautiful imagination about the pandas…
Today there was a lot of people at the zoo, a lot of people come from all over the world to see the pandas here, Bai Yun is so famous! with her six children she gave birth to.
Happy New year to you and to the pandas!
Danielle in San Diego
My second, great-granddaughter, through Hua Mei, has a name, Yue Yue (“happy”). She was born on 8/9/2015.
Note: My third daughter, Zhen Zhen’s 2015 twins were born a day earlier, on 8/8. One of them is a girl. I don’t know their names yet.
While I was born on 9/7, most descendants from my lineage, with exception of little Wu (b. 7/29), were born in August. Curious to check with SDZ scientists, whether it reflects genetic influence, or mere coincidence!
Dear Xiao Liwu,
Apologies for my mistake, you indeed are correct about your lineage, Wishing you and your wonderful family a very happy new year.
Correction: Folks, I have no relative in U.K. However, I do have relatives at Washington, D.C., and Vienna.
Besides my five older siblings, I also have about 130 clan members in China.
For further details, kindly consult the good book, ‘INTERNATIONAL STUDBOOK FOR GIANT PANDAS’, for my genealogy.
In keeping with the season I can imagine in Panda Canyon on New Years Eve, Bai in her tartan apron , Gao sitting on a rocking chair enjoying a glass of olde bamboo whisky and adorable Mr Wu munching on bamboo shortbread which his cousins in Edinburgh Zoo mailed to him. Good health, wealth and prosperity to all in the coming year!
Hi Lindsay,
Tonight it’s going down to the low 40’s, the pandas will most likely enjoy this cold weather with their thick coarse fur, that will keep them warm. Maybe their nose might get cold, those darlings!
Danielle in San Diego
Hi Lindsay,
How great it is to see your post.
I had to smile, when you said, the pandas would have loved your front lawn today, and when you said if you can’t have the pandas in your garden, you can do without having the white stuff.. I laughed,
I’m sure the pandas would love your garden with snow. They sure had a fun time here when the now was brought in for them.
Darling Xiao Liwu was so cute and precious today, sitting o
in the tree and taking a little nap, his little face is so adorable.. What a guy he is.!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! you just have to love those pandas, I mean they are precious! it almost look like he was smiling in his sleep, maybe he was dreaming of his big brother Yun Zi and the good times when Yun Zi was here.
I miss those cute stories coming from Bai Yun , Gao Gao, and their children..
Have a Happy Prosperous and Healthy New Year Lindsay..Everyone else who is reading the blog, HAVE a HAPPY NEW YEAR♥
MONITOR, I have a question … a non-Panda question.
I have not heard or seen photos of Ken, the Lion and Dixie, his Lioness sister lately. Are they still at the Safari Park or they are at another Zoo now? I saw them at the Safari Park last year. Love them, they seemed to be very close to each other then.
Monitor’s note: Yes, Ken and Dixie are still at the Safari Park and live in an off exhibit area of the Park. We’ll have a blog about them in the very near future, but in the meantime, here’s a few tidbits to tide you over: they turned two years old on December 6th and are growing fast! Ken is currently 365 lbs and his mane has started to darken and grow in length. Dixie weighs 275 lbs and is still as rambunctious as ever.
Well the pandas would have loved my front lawn today, a free snow day!! Here in Ontario Canada we finally had our first snow fall of the season……..happy pandas ……not so happy Lindsay! But it is going away again, phew! Well, if I can’t have the pandas in my garden I reckon I can do without the white stuff.
Thank you Danielle for your kind comments and I am sure Gao Gao, Bai Yun and sweetie Mr Wu , like all, animals sense genuine love for them , and I think it’s great that you include me in your telepathic waves to them!
Dear Gao Gao, Bai Yun And Xiao liwu,
I’m glad you posted all the activities that are here at the zoo for everyone. Like I said, above, (San Diego Zoois the best in the whole world!)…
Danielle in San Diego
Lindsay, it’s so nice to see you here and see a friendly comment.
I hope everything is going good for you, even if you can’t come to San Diego to see the pandas, I hope that by my posting about those three darlings wonderful Gao Gao, beautiful Bai Yun and precious darling Xiao Liwu you are here with me in thoughts concerning the pandas.. I love writing how much they mean to me, I would never get tired of writing how much it’s wonderful to say something to the pandas daily..I know many posters feel like I do, and some feel it’s boring to them, It’s too bad, like you said, they don’t have to read the posts. There is absolutely nothing wrong in writing how much and how important pandas are to us…
I’m so fortunate that I live near them and can see them, when I write to say how sweet or cute or good night , or have a pleasant night or anything concerning the pandas here, I’m sure those who are unable to be here are glad that some of us can write and say how much they mean to us the pandas..
And yes, even to give a report about the weather because the pandas live here and it’s nice to know how they too feel how the weather concerns them..
It’s been cold here in San Diego these past few days, I’m sure the pandas feel it, but with their thick coarse fur, they are not cold, and though, they can breathe that the weather is cold, I’m sure it’s enjoyable for them , just as it is for us humans to have a change in weather..Tonight it’s going down to 35 degrees, that’s cold for us here in San Diego California.
I tell the pandas when I go see them , hello from the people who love them on the blog, I blow them kisses and wave to them..I know they are near sighted , so maybe they can’t see me..Though, it’s possible they too have mental telepathy and can sense good thoughts are being sent right there and then to them…
San Diego Zoo is the best in the whole world! The people , all the people who work there or volunteers are exceptional human beings, I don’t think any where else on earth, one can find the friendliness of the people there that “The San Diego Zoo” has to offer.. The people there , one can ask them anything and they are so knowledgeable concerning the animals , it’s as if you are on a seminar and learning , you never leave there without having learned something about pandas or should it be any other animals there..
I am so happy God has planted me here in San Diego so I can be near these precious pandas..
Danielle in San Diego
She still cute
I was at the Zoo during Thanksgiving the past 2 years. I had a wonderful time. I’d be at the Gate by 9am when the Zoo opened, and made a beeline for Panda Canyon. No line. I’d station between Bai Yun and Mr. Wu exhibits until after their lunch, then I made my round to see other animals. Half an hour before the Zoo closed, I circled back to Panda Canyon to see the Wu self again 🙂 No waiting.
I thought SDZ foods were quality and tasted great. I really enjoyed eating at the Zoo. I was also at Sea World San Diego in the past trip. Lunch wasn’t as tasty and prices were no cheaper.
I would go back to visit SDZ anytime I have a chance. Probably one more time before Mr. Wu leaves for China … and that thought makes my eyes misty. Love you lots and lots, Mr. Wu.
Addendum
There are specific zoo programs, designed for kids of all ages, as well. Just peruse sub-section under “Experiences’, for further details.
For those intending to explore on their own, free shuttle bus service is available [In addition, there is a separate guided bus tour].
For the physically challenged, motorized wheelchairs are available for rental.
So plan ahead, for an enjoyable, educational experience. Hope to see all of you soon!
TO ALL READERS: YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED, TO VISIT SAN DIEGO ZOO, FOR A “SPECIAL 2016 YEAR”.
On top of SDZ homepage, click on ‘Centennial Celebration’ for details.
At very bottom of this Panda Blog, last line: ‘our family of sites’, click on ‘SDZ’ icon. Opening next window, click on ‘Experiences’ section.
It discusses various small group tours available. For example: ‘Backstage Pass’, ‘Sunrise Stroll’, & ‘Exclusive VIP’ etc.
On ‘Early Morning with Pandas’ tour, you will be chauffeured in special carts, for ‘behind-the-scene’, in-depth look, at our family plus friends. Plentiful opportunities for your burning questions, answered on the spot, by knowledgeable staff. Afterwards, let’s walk over to Hua Mei Cafe, for bamboo snacks, long-life noodles, din suns, with servings of Wu Long tea etc; while bleating over, everything panda!
For more information, call reservation phone number listed. Please do come, and we shall roll out the red carpet, for you and your family.
Jane – Any zoo, or entertainment venue is expensive to eat. At least our lunch was edible. As far as the parking lots we climbed up what seemed like a mountain the day we visited 8 years ago. We also waited in a long line in Panda Canyon but nothing was going to stop me from seeing the pandas (SuLin was a small cub). Time in line went quickly as we all chatted about how excited we were. We were moved right along once inside the exhibit. SuLin a was blur high up in the trees so we just got back in line in hopes too see her. No luck so we toured some of the zoo. When we back to the pandas in the afternoon hubby was tired so sat on a bench where he had a great view of SuLin still up in her tree. As I was moving along Gao got up, ambled to the front of his exhibit and looked right at me. I was almost jumping up & down I was so thrilled. I cheated a bit & didn’t move along very rapidly. We spent $$ in the gift shop which some may say was over priced but I was happy.
I was sad to read some of the negative comments, only people who have a genuine love of the wonderful animals in all zoos and care for their welfare take part in this educational blog system. I have learned so much about the pandas and their habitats etc, I am very grateful for this free education and also the fellowship which seems to have been formed within Panda Canyon. I may never be able to personally visit SDZ, I hope to, but if not I still feel as if I have, and thoroughly enjoy the interaction between my blogger friends, so I guess if you don’t enjoy the remarks , well it’s simple , don’t read them!
Happy 2O16 to everyone, , and I hope I haven’t offended anyone as this was not my intention.
The Zoo is really a very nice place to visit. I’m used to it because I live near by and it’s wonderful to be able to just go there anytime..
Gao Gao can be seen by special arranged appointments.. They have little tours where you can go behind the scene and see the three pandas..
Gao Gao, Bai Yun And Xiao Liwu you are so wonderful, I love watching you take naps, and eating your bamboo, I love the way you climb and sit down and you are just perfect. I love you so much dear pandas..
we have been coming to see the pandas since the beginning , many years ago. My husband and I never get tired of coming to the zoo to see the pandas, it has been so rewarding..We sometime bring a little snack to eat and carry our water to drink. Food is expensive though it goes to the zoo. The zoo don’t get any kind of help except what people donate, so though, it may cost a little more than fast food place, the money is well spent for the zoo.
See you tomorrow dear pandas, sleep well.. Thanks to the Keepers for keeping the pandas so well maintained, they sure are looking good.
Merry Christmas to the people who celebrate the 12 days of Christmas, and sending good thoughts for those who don’t celebrate..
Danielle in San Diego
In the wild, pandas are recluses. Whether there exists phenomenon of ‘panda nervousness’, it is for animal behaviorists to ponder.
Previously per SDZ, Gao Gao, being of geriatric age, is exquisitely sensitive to loud noises. Hence, he is kept mostly in the back, not too often on public display.
Further, to reduce possible, extraneous stresses on potentially expectant mothers; under managed care, these females are typically placed in seclusion. Such were arrangements for Bai Yun, after her past breedings.
To Benjamin and Fly,
There are same, identical comments, posted repeatedly at earlier panda blogs, as well. Acts of “Scent Marking”?
Usually, there are docents, posted at well-visited exhibits. Their tasks are to answer questions, plus to ensure guests moving along, among others.
More visitors are to be expected, especially during holiday weekends. California is a motor state. San Diego still lacks efficient mass transit system, unlike some Midwest and East Coast cities.
It entails huge expenditure, to maintain large zoo with many exhibits. SDZ receives no taxpayer subsidy.
I was so disappointed that the line was over an hour wait yesterday and I didn’t get to see the pandas. And, unfortunately, an unusually large number of animals were not on display. We arrived almost an hour and a half before we saw a single one! The parking lot was completely full…so why were they allowing cars in? While I realize it was one of, if not the busiest day at the zoo all year, I was surprised that they allowed so many people in to the point of overcrowding. Even on a normal day, a few slight changes would make it more enjoyable and welcoming. For instance, two small bottles of water and two grilled chicken sandwiches should not cost $26! Aside from that, I will, of course, return when it isn’t so insane and will not plan on eating there. I am curious if such hoards of people make the pandas nervous.
So happy I found this blog again,altho I don’t post often I have been watching the Gao Gao family since forever.Love them and glad to see all doing so well thanks to the loving care of their keepers. Its a busy time of the year so just in case I don’t get back here I want to wish everyone a very heathy,safe and blessed New Years.And goes for our beloved animals and keepers at this zoo who lovingly give of there time and devotion to make sure they keep the animals safe and healthy,thank you for all you do.
Hi, Benjamin: In full agreement on panda posts, my feeling exactly!
Why do some folks, keep posting same comments here, over and over again? Such daily, repetitive remarks, serve NO meaningful purposes whatsoever!
Good evening dear pandas Gao Gao. Bai Yun And Xiao Liwu,
I hope you are enjoying this nice coo; weather we are having. it feels good, I know it must be nice for you three.
Danielle in San Diego
Merry Christmas to everyone and good health..
Danielle in San Diego
Merry Christmas to all from France!
Merry Christmas to everyone who reads the panda blog!
Danielle in San Diego
merry Christmas to all!
Merry Christmas to all the panda fans..
I also send much love to the panda Keepers, the moderators, the Veterinarians who take care of the pandas, all of you have a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays..And to all who are involved with the pandas and other animals at the zoo…
Dear Pandas have a good night, it’s suppose to rain a little again..
Danielle in San Diego
Merry Christmas Danielle, other bloggers and the keepers who do much for the pandas.
For your information the panda fans at the NZ have a Facebook page where we can talk about all the pandas. Something to think about. 🙂
Hi, AL: For whatever reasons, captive-bred pandas tend not knowing, how to mate naturally (males more so than females, though both sexes could be affected). In this regard, Mei Sheng is but one example.
Even formerly reliable, wild-born Gao Gao, sire of 5, failed this year. In 3/10/15 SDZ video, he kept sliding off Bai Yun’s backside, unable to secure a firm grip, despite her encouragement.
Thank you Danielle for your warm wishes, you are so lucky being able to visit our panda family on a regular basis and am sure it is very therapeutic , I am so jealous! I love being able to see all the wonderful photos of the pandas at the top of this page now, just makes me feel all warm and fuzzy, who ever said all animals are dumb certainly never had the pleasure of enjoying watching and learning from them. The love and care Bai has shown to all her cubs is wonderful and just feeling as if I am part of all this is a gift , I feel very lucky. I miss reading a lot of the regular bloggers as well. Thank you SDZ for your love and care for all your animals and especially our panda family.?????
Hi Lindsay,
So glad to see you here!, I thought I would never ever see your name again!!!!!!
I don’t know why they keep changing the blog, it was doing just fine from the first one, it has been changed a lot…
Aren’t those three pandas Gao Gao, Bai Yun and precious Mr. Wu just absolutely wonderful!
If only they knew how much they are cared for by so many people….
I love all pandas, I ‘m more attached to the pandas here because I see them often since I live in the same State that they do..
You have blessed Christmas with your family and friends..
I’m really happy to see you here!!!!!
Danielle in San Diego
Hi Danielle! And all our bloggers,
Wishing everyone a happy and peaceful holiday season, know Santa will visit our favourite panda family as they have all been very good. Best wishes to all the keepers and thank you for your loving care throughout the year,not just a job to all of you but your love for Wu, Bai and Gao shine .
Just a follow-up on my 12/16/15 comment: Case of Mei Sheng, born 2003 at San Diego Zoo.
Per ‘Our Panda Family’, 3/20/15 SDZ article, section on Mei Sheng: “His breeding success (to-date) has been elusive”.
From other SDZ archives, he was first initiated in 2009. Over subsequent years, he had multiple mating opportunities. Alas, unlike father Gao Gao, Mei Sheng simply does not know how to proceed correctly..
Exhibit A: YouTube video, ‘Mei Sheng (& Qian Qian’s failed mating) in 2013’, posted by PDX Wildlife, on 3/23/2015.
Background remark by SDZ scientist, who was then conducting ‘Panda Mate Preference And Reproductive Success’ study, at Bifengxia. Mei Sheng was one of her research subjects.
Compared with his 3 sisters (Hua Mei, Su Lin & Zhen Zhen), he has yet to sire any offspring.
In addition to factors of health, plus genetic diversity; behavioral compatibility is also important consideration, for successful captive (ex situ) breeding. While Mei Sheng knows how to scent-mark, via handstand, he still has a lot to learn. It will be of interest to see, whether he could experience a change in fortune, next spring.
Hi Maureen, it’s so good to see a panda fan here!
If the others are not lost, then where are they? As long as they post to our pandas here it will not be removed because it’s all about our darling sweet pandas that we love, well I adore them .
The pandas make me very happy , I love watching them.. they are very relaxing to watch…
Danielle in San Diego
We are not lost but our comments are being removed.
HAPPY SUNDAY EVENING GORGEOUS PANDAS, HOW DID YOU ENJOY THE DOWNPOUR WE HAD LAST NIGHT, WASN’T IT SOMETHING, ONLY WE REALLY NEED A SOFTER RAIN , MORE STEADY , AND NOT NOT A BUCKET OF WATER TURNED UPSIDE DOWN..
Maybe we will get some more rain later on, hopefully..
Have a sweet night with pleasant dreams Gao Gao, Bai Yun and precious Mr. Wu, I love you three, and I’m very, very fond of the Keepers who take care of you three and the monitor who takes care of us on line, and anyone else involved with the dear pandas…
Danielle in San Diego
PS I hope soon we get some of our old posters back.. I think they are lost!
Thank you, Keeper Jen. I’ve seen him going down head first, glad he’s ok. Wouldn’t want anything to happen to our little guy.
I assure you that Mr. Wu is just fine. He has a tendency to climb down trees head first which causes his hair to fold back on his forehead. It is not any different from a child scraping their elbow or knees.
Whoa, how did Mr. Wu get that big hole in his head again? Is it the same one or a new one? Poor baby.
Well, this is the first year since Pam G. died her poems weren’t allowed on the blog. She loved the San Diego pandas & can only imagine Pam’s Christmas with Bai, Mr. Wu & Gao. Merry Christmas in memory of Pam.
Hi sweet pandas!
Today was a lovely here in San Diego America’s finest city…
I hope you had a very nice day, wishing you three a wonderful peaceful night.
Danielle in San Diego
It’s me again your fan here in San Diego, who loves you guys so much…
I love watching you on the webcam , thank Goodness we have that, it’s a blessing to be able to see you daily!
Danielle in San Diego
Hello Gao Gao, Bai Yun and Xiao Liwu,
This evening it’s a little bit colder than usual, though it won’t stay like that.. I hope you are enjoying the colder weather..I am , it’s a little change for us here in San Diego..
Danielle in San Diego
Hi pandas,
Just passing by to let you know I’m thinking of you.
Danielle in San diego
REQUEST FOR MODERATOR:
Previously, SDZ researchers, in conjunction with CCRCGP colleagues, conducted a ‘Panda Mate Preference & Reproductive Success’ study at Bifengxia. The story is reported in today’s San Diego newspaper.
Perhaps, scientists from your Institute of Conservation Biology, could discuss this topic further, in a future panda blog. It should be of interest to all readers. Thanks.
Monitor’s note: I will forward your request, and if they have the time to share, it will be posted in the future. 🙂
Moderator, I posted two poems in memory Pam G. that she posted here on this site in 2008 & 2009, I see they have have been removed.How sad.
Monitor’s note: We welcome all comments that align with our San Diego Zoo Global Comment Policy, but unfortunately these two posts did not. The poems still exist in the comments sections of the blogs they were posted in, which are in the archives (scroll down to the bottom and you can click the year). If you remember what the titles of the blogs were that they were posted in, feel free to share it here in the comments for those that would like to search for them.
Hi Caroline,
Exactly! that is just those precious pandas are doing!
Danielle in San Diego
Ah, after hearty bamboo breakfast; it is time for mid-morning panda nap, underneath the tree shade, amidst gentle Pacific Ocean breeze.
Hi dear Pandas,
Today! was a very nice day here in San Diego. You must like the colder weather we are having, It’s a nice change of pace..
Have a pleasant night..
Danielle in San Diego
thank you, panda panda, for posting the info on the panda videos on youtube – it is greatly enjoyed and appreciated!
To Panda Panda: Thanks for those YouTube videos on pandas. Great for holiday season viewing indeed!
Hello Gao Gao, Bai Yun and Xiao Liwu,
I hope you are having a nice Sunday. Just wanted to let you know I think you guys are terrific.
Danielle in San diego
Hello sweet pandas,
Had to stop by and say nitey nite to you three,
I love you sweet darling pandas, you are my precious♥
Danielle in San Diego
Hi, Panda Panda: Thanks for posting, guide to YouTube videos on giant pandas.
Just passing by to say ***hi***to the pandas,
I hope you enjoyed a little bit of rain today♥
Danielle in San Diego
Hello Gao Gao, Bai Yun and Xiao Liwu,
I hope you three great pandas had a fabulous day.
Danielle in San Diego
Wow! A hearty thanks to your Web wizards for giving us reading access to the old blogs! I already have them bookmarked.
I always have some degree of difficulty with change, but this new blog is beautiful. Kudos to everyone involved for making it available for us panda lovers to share. I wish all of you at the Zoo and Safari Park a wonderful holiday season.
Karen
More recent YouTube videos, for pandas STILL present at San Diego Zoo.
XIAO LIWU: ’11/14/2015 Snow Day’, 5 minutes, narrated by SDZ docent.
GAO GAO: ‘Making bamboo bread for panda Gao Gao’, 1 minute. Same video is also embedded, within 9/24/15 SDZ blog.
Key identification: On a frontal footage, note his left external ear, is smaller in size, versus his right one. This is result of 1992 fight in the wild, with another animal (?panda).
BAI YUN:
‘Bai Yun climbing trees’, 9/5/15, 3 minutes, narrated by SDZ docent.
‘Bai Yun’s 24th birthday celebration’, posted by SDZ, 9/9/15, 1 minute, accompanied by music.
Holiday greetings!
Recent YouTube videos of pandas born at San Diego Zoo.
YUN ZI at Shijiazhuang, all posted by Ejie Z:
‘Yun Zi having boo breakfast at outdoor yard’, parts I & II, 11/8/2015, 4 minutes in duration.
‘Yun Zi [Yunior] ready to take indoor nap’, 11/8/15, 1 minute.
‘Yun Zi [Yunior]: a boo eating machine’, 12/6/15, 5 minutes.
‘Yun Zi (then) at Dujiangyan’, posted by Jedapar, 12/1/15, 3 minutes. Narrated in Korean & Chinese, albeit footage is self-explanatory.
ZHEN ZHEN at Bifengxia,
‘Panda profile: Zhen Zhen and (one of her 2015 twin) cub’, posted by PDXWildlife, 10/21/15, 2 minutes.
SU LIN at Bifengxia,
‘Su Lin and (her surviving) 2014 cub’, posted by Jedapar, 12/2/15, 33 minutes. Narrated in Korean and Chinese, accompanied by music.
She delivered twins on 8/2/2014, but one died sometime post birth (? cause of death/necropsy). Presumably, come next January or February, the surviving cub would be weaned; thereby allowing Su Lin to recycle into estrus, ahead of 2016 breeding season.
MEI SHENG at Bifengxia, all posted by Jusywho:
‘Mei Sheng decorates his house’, 2/16/2015, 4 minutes. He scent-marked, via hand-standing, on outdoor platform.
‘This is Mei Sheng’s tree’, 2/16/15, 7 minutes. Ever the agile climber, just like his SDZ days, he performed a hand-stand posture, high upon a tree trunk.
HUA MEI: no recent video.
For simplicity, just type search: ‘giant panda Yun Zi’, or ‘giant panda Su Lin’ etc. at YouTube site; scroll down, to locate respective, above-mentioned videos. Happy holiday viewing!
I love the new blog page but it is so unfortunate that the old blog entries could not be carried over with it- sigh! I loved re-reading some of the notes from everyone. I guess we’ll have to start anew. BTW, thanks for posting Bai Yun’s birthday blog. Perhaps you had it tucked somewhere else that I couldn’t find, but great article. She looks beautiful! My love to Bai, Gao and Mr. Wu!
Karen
Monitor’s note: GREAT NEWS! Our wonderful Web wizards have been able to make it possible for you to go back and read the comments on the old panda blogs! Simply go here and bookmark the site so you can find it again. You will not be able to write any more comments on these older versions, but they have been able to restore the comments for your reading pleasure. 🙂 But be sure to keep commenting on the new versions, too!
What happened to all the posts of the people , where are they?
Monitor’s note: People can still post comments, and we hope they will continue to share what they see on Panda Cam and respond to the blog.
What happened to all the comments? That was one of the best parts about our Panda Cam, talking to and learning from one another.
Why have the blogs been changed?
Where is the panda blog? I can’t find it!
Monitor’s note: You found it! You can find the panda blogs one of three ways: Scroll down the ZOONOOZ Online page and you’ll see a “Spotlight on Pandas” icon. Also, clicking on the Keeper Notes tab will bring up all the most recent keeper blogs, while typing “pandas” in the search box will bring up all the panda blogs.