Wonderful “Wu”
Giant Panda Update
BY Karyl Carmignani
Photography by Ken Bohn
Three years ago, Bai Yun gave birth to her sixth tiny, squawking cub. Barely the size of a Twinkie, Xiao Liwu (pronounced jhou lee woo), or “Mr. Wu,” as he was nicknamed, still exemplifies the meaning of his Chinese name: little gift. Now, as an adolescent bear, he tips the scale at about 134 pounds, which is a bit on the small side for a young male panda, but his father Gao Gao is also on the petite side. His legions of followers, admirers, and keepers are still charmed by Mr. Wu—and the “little” bear is a big hit on Panda Cam and in person.
The Thinker
While he continues to hit developmental milestones, he has proved to be much different from his five older siblings. “He is more physical and also more of a thinker than our previous cubs,” said Jennifer Becerra, senior keeper. And all those panda smarts make it “more challenging to enrich him” as he takes time to assess new situations, while most of the other cubs would dive in with nary a thought to the consequences. “He is much more patient and willing to sit still, unlike the previous cubs,” she added. “But if things don’t go his way, he can throw an impressive temper tantrum!”
Brave New World
Xiao Liwu’s mom, Bai Yun, has intuitively provided the right balance of nurturing attention, affection, and instruction for all her cubs. With her sixth cub, “Wu Bear” (another fond nickname for Mr. Wu), she seemed to sense his independent nature and was content to let him figure things out on his own. Her “free-range parenting” has paid off, as Mr. Wu appears to be the smartest and easiest to train of all her offspring.
THAT FACE!
The collaborative giant panda breeding program at the Zoo has been successful, with Bai Yun raising six cubs since 1999.
For instance, he has already mastered the protocol for blood pressure checks. Keepers and veterinary staff from a few zoos around the country are collecting blood pressure readings on giant pandas to create baseline data. The process includes the bear putting his or her arm into a metal sleeve, which has a hole in the top through which the blood pressure cuff is secured around the animal’s forearm. The bear needs to remain calm during the strange squeezing sensation of the cuff and the jarring Velcro sound, so an accurate reading can be collected. Favorite treats like squirts of honey water (Xiao Liwu’s top pick), as well as pieces of apple, carrot, sweet potato, and soaked biscuits (not dry!) make the training more engaging for the bear.
MOM’S THE WORD
Bai Yun is an exceptional mother to her cubs. She has taught researchers a great deal about panda reproduction and maternal behavior.
Mr. Wu is calm, confident, and relaxed throughout the process. Gao Gao also participates in this panda health study. “Hypertension has been noted in several older pandas,” explained Zoo veterinarian Meg Sutherland-Smith, DVM. “We have been monitoring Gao Gao’s blood pressure because of suspected hypertension. In order to get a better idea of normal blood pressure values, Xiao Liwu was trained for blood pressure monitoring to compare to Gao Gao’s.” This important health monitoring would not be possible without the dedication of our panda keepers and registered veterinary technicians.
Just Try It—You’ll Like It
For all of his bravado about some things—like descending trees headfirst—other things were daunting for Mr. Wu early on. His keepers shared that for his first two years, the cub wanted nothing to do with water, “not even dipping a paw into the stuff.” Then one day, he warmed to water—and now he happily bobs for apple pieces in his pool, anoints his bamboo with it, and plays in it. Another surprising component to his personality has been his penchant for bamboo at an early age.
From about 18 months of age, he showed a preference for bamboo, forgoing other calorie-dense food items like biscuits or fresh produce, even as he was nursing very infrequently. He even turned up his cute black nose at the usual fare of ruby-red apples, so keepers resorted to making a tasty puree with biscuits and apples. But one day, there was a surplus of organic Fuji apples in another Zoo area, and they were delivered to the panda exhibit. Mr. Wu took to this type of apple instantly and prefers it to this day.
He’s Got This
His keepers say “Wu Bear” has been a very independent, mellow cub, adding that he has a bit of a daredevil streak. “He goes down trees headfirst and has the little scrapes on his head to show for it,” said Kathy Hawk, senior keeper. But he is no worse for wear! The little bear also has a slight reddish brown hue to his signature black fur, with small white patches on his lower back legs. Now that our “little gift” has turned three years old, he may reveal “a new set of behaviors and energy bursts,” according to Anastasia Jonilionis, panda narrator and keeper at the Zoo. “Not much fazes him, and for the most part—from a keeper’s point of view—he has been the easiest cub to work with.”
Like all of Bai Yun’s cubs, Xiao Liwu will go to China when he is four years old to contribute to the giant panda breeding program. For 20 years, San Diego Zoo Global has been working with Chinese collaborators to save this iconic species. “We are proud to be a part of this wonderful conservation project,” said Jennifer. “Our successful panda breeding at the Zoo is aiding genetic diversity and adding to the giant panda population in China.” And that’s no little gift!
hello. i am from poland. i uwielbiam was!
hello all users. i am quas wenkis from mali.
Is Mr. Wu still in San Diego? If he is, will he every have to go to China? He was the first Panda I watched being born on your website and I’ve loved him his whole life!
I would appreciate if when you move the bears to the Panda Cam that you put the name of the Panda that we are watching. I love all of them
however I became very attached to Baby Woo from his birth to present time. It was a great therapy for me as I was very ill and bedridden.
I know that a certain hospital wrote to you and express the difference that watching Baby Woo on live cam , gave the ill children in the ward
a time to engage , smile , and forget their pain for a while.
I have asked before if since you documented Baby woo since birth could you guys make a DVD of Baby Woo’s first year of life and offer
it to the dedicated fans for sale. I would be the first to purchase it. Please consider this as it would mean a lot to so many and it would be
a new source of income for the zoo.
Monitor’s note: Unfortunately, we don’t have the ability to label the camera view when it has been changed. 🙁 I will pass your idea for a DVD to our Retail Team. Thanks for watching and supporting our work with giant pandas!
Hi MaryBeth,
It’s good to see you here!
The pandas are just simply wonderful, and one can’t help but to love them…
Do you still have my phone #.. If you do, call me and we can talk about the precious pandas to our hearts content!
I forgot where you live?
Since I can’t put my phone # here, You can ask the moderator, I think they have a system where they can do that with the person consent…
I don’t remember how we did it before!
Danielle in San Diego
Hey folks, this section is getting OVERLOADED with entries. How about, start posting your remarks, at 2/10/16 ‘PANDA PARTY’ blog? It is more recent, plus up-to-date.
San Diego Zoo has animal education programs, targeting children of different age groups, as well.
Dear Cynthia and Robert,
Giant panda has served as conservation emblem, since 1970. With its eye-catching appearance, it calls attention to vital need for, conservation of all endangered species. Missions of modern zoos, SDZ included, are not just exhibiting animals, but also to educate the public, among others.
Previously, several readers mentioned Yun Zi, at his Hebei home. Staff there, too, have enlisted him, as live teach-in. Sessions are held, for local kindergarten and grade school kids. Not only they learn about pandas, but also importance of habitat preservation, so as to maintain viable ecosystem, for all creatures in the wild.
Thank You Danielle
Though this is a tad late, I want to express my thanks for delivering my love to the giant pandas; it means so much. They are such beautiful creatures with such different personalities you can’t help but find something to adore each one of them for. It seems whenever I stop to view panda cam, everyone is sleeping. {sigh} In 1987, I was to the San Diego Zoo when my sister lived in Redlands; it was just before the giant pandas were acquired, otherwise, I would have seen a much younger Bái Yún and Shi Shi — dern!! What was funny though, the resident koala bears were on loan to our local zoo so I missed them by 3400 miles. Thank you again for passing on my greetings to the beautiful and wonderful giant panda family. mb
Hopefully, a general conservation message, has been conveyed to those South Dakota youngsters. There are other endangered species, equally at risk of extinction, besides giant pandas.
To Benjamin.
You are right. That petition is now moot.
Evidently, most who signed on, have never bothered to conduct, independent fact checking on their own.
Just read that, students at South Dakota elementary school, attended a class on giant pandas, taught by conservation scientist. In contrast with San Diego children, these Sioux Falls grade school kids do not have frequent opportunities, to visit such creatures in person, other than viewing remotely via webcams. It is nice for them, to gain appreciation, on importance of saving endangered species.
Dear Skeptic: I too have seen said online petition (now defunct). Set up by a misguided aficionado, it is full of misleading claims. Majority of signature bearers are domiciled, outside U.S. and China. They have zero understanding, regarding bases plus purposes of panda loan agreement, to begin with.
Zoo management has already declared, U.S.-born pandas (Xiao Liwu included), are to be repatriated to China, after attainment of age 4 years. No if’s, or but’s. That online petition, is “much ado about nothing”!
Good evening Moderator and giant pandas, Gao Gao, Bai Yun and Xiao Liwu,
Danielle in San Diego
Hi, James: You are certainly correct here.
Last year, a California newspaper erroneously reported that, SDZ would soon import new, younger panda pair, for breeding. Then it was prematurely (or exuberantly) related, by a reader in prior blog. San Diego Zoo Global quickly quashed both, saying that was mere baseless speculation.
Lesson: Important to differentiate factual reality, from wishful fantasy!
Dear Pandas Gao Gao, Bai YUn and Mr. Wu,
Just passing by to say goodnight, have a good night the three of you, I’ll see you tomorrow!
Danielle in San Diego
Dear Rosetta and Skeptic: Yes, we have already read both documents, cited herein. Indeed, they are very informative, and offer lot more details, than just gleaning from news accounts on pandas.
To Rosetta and Panda Nation,
Misconceptions persist, regarding pandas are loaned outside China, purely to breed.
Fact: China has more experience plus success, in panda breeding, than all overseas zoos combined.
Some object to their repatriation. There is even, an online petition, seeking to keep them permanently in U.S.
Fact: All giant pandas on earth, with 2 exceptions, are Chinese property. It is unlikely to change.
Such misunderstandings can be easily clarified, through in-depth perusal of the two documents, referenced in blogger Jim’s post.
Hi, Panda Nation: Certainly, co-operative research endeavors among U.S. zoos, on geriatric issues affecting pandas, are important. So are studies, on species conservation in the wild, being conducted by SDZ scientists, in collaboration with Chinese colleagues.
Further, such undertakings would fulfill several conditions, stipulated by Fish & Wildlife Service’s ‘Giant Panda Policy’, for allowing their imports into U.S., as mentioned by blogger Jim earlier (Please scroll down, to read his 1/20/2016 post).
2016 breeding season has already begun, with 1 participant being Bai Yun’s granddaughter. It will be of interest, to observe whether SDZ adult pair having reached reproductive senescence. If indeed so, opportunities abound to study, various geriatric issues confronting giant pandas; as under managed care, they tend to live longer (versus wild counterparts).
Current loan agreement, on Bai Yun & Gao Gao, is valid through 2018. Problem of possible age-related hypertension, can be monitored longitudinally, especially with Gao Gao. In conjunction, blood pressure readings of sub-adults, e.g. those of Xiao Liwu, plus Su Lin & Zhen Zhen (during their time at SDZ); are useful to assess changes, as they progress through different life stages.
I recall Yun Zi being non-cooperative, with such endeavor. He tore up Velcro cuff, when SDZ staff attempted to measure his BP. Wonder any meaningful readings were ever obtained on him?
Dear Monitor, I’m so glad San Diego Zoo is a part of the 20 years global breeding program.
We would have never had such a golden opportunity to have beautiful Bai Yun and her two husbands, sad the first husband got so sick and eventually passed on in China. At least we had the first baby pandas born here…Then we got wonderful Gao Gao and all those darling five babies Bai Yun and him conceived over the years..
Now we are going to have to send the precious love Mr. Wu and that will break so many hearts including mine, because of all the 6 babies, I adopted the darling Xiap Liwu with other people who post here, when Mr. Wu he was one year old.. Who knows maybe someday, some year I will be able to go to China and visit Xiao Liwu when he goes there, only time will tell..
I’d love to visit Yun Zi too and who knows maybe someday..Meanwhile, I have a question?
Is China going to send any more pandas here at the San Diego Zoo? just wondering..
Daily, I try not to miss seeing the pandas on the web cam or my husband and I we go to the zoo to see the pandas.
Have a nice evening!
Danielle in San Diego
Hi Pandas, I hope you stayed cool today it was very warm here in San Diego, I hope you three had a good day..
Danielle in San Diego
Dear Pandas, I hope you three had a peaceful day today sending you three much love Gao Gao, Bai Yun and Mr. Wu Xiao Liwu….
Danielle in San Diego
Happy Valentine’s Day to the Keepers and Monitors , including all who take care of the pandas..
Gao Gao, Bai Yun and darling Xiao liwu I love you♥♥♥
Danielle in San Diego
The most calming thing is watching the pandas, there is nothing better anywhere!
Danielle in San Diego
Beautiful Bai looking up to the sky and enjoying her boo on the rock formation,love her a lot along with Gao Gao and all their siblings.Love Wu always too.
To Rebecca: Thanks for audios. Nice to actually hear, those panda vocalizations.
Will do Sue Coad!
I could not go one day without saying the word panda, or think about the pandas..
I love them, I Love animals..
Danielle in San Diego
For fans, who often wonder about panda sounds, here is a site where you can hear recorded audios: www(dot)sdgpanda(dot)org. Select English language. At bottom of next window, there are series of icons. Point arrow in succession, panda vocalizations can be heard: ranging from squeals/squawks uttered by neonates, to bleats/chirps/honks/barks by adults.
Danielle, it’s wonderful u r able to visit the Gao family regularly & keep us all informed on how they r doing !! I love them all, especially Gao Gao & I was sorry to learn that he’s not well. Please give them all my best wishes for their continued health & happiness next time u visit them !! Thank u
Danielle, you are so thoughtful , thank you,I am positive love vibs get through the air waves . Wonderful Wu is very appropriate , in his own little way he makes me feel good, when I click on to get to the comments his pictures automatically make me smile, and you can’t put a price on that. Enjoy your next visit !!
Hi Lindsay,
I forgot to mention that I pretended I was talking to you on my cell phone while at the zoo, and told the pandas you were sending your love, and I waved at them, being they are near sighted, they can sense I believe when good wishes and thoughts are send to them. I believe this very much..
At one point it looked like they were smiling, even my husband thoughts so, though, he rarely comments about that to me..
So what-ever one may think, I do believe the pandas can sense good thoughts when speaking to them…
We usually are pretty much quiet in and around the pandas, so not to disturb them.. we must spend a t least 15 minutes looking at them and taking pictures, then returning again. We do that about three times, sometime four times…
We are going there again this week. Our weather is gorgeous right now, so we take advantage of that, just in case another el nino returns here in San Diego…Right now we are having the Santa Anna warm winds…
I love the wording above. “Wonderful Wu” so appropriate for him…
Danielle in San Diego
Dear Moderator, thank you for checking up on my blogs, very kind. This is what makes you all so special!??
QUESTIONS FOR MODERATOR:
1) Do SDZ giant pandas receive annual FLU Vaccine?
Previously, your veterinarian mentioned pandas being susceptible to influenza, just like humans.
2) Are they also immunized against TETANUS (primary series, followed by periodic booster)?
Earlier blog stated Xiao Liwu sustaining a small skull wound, consequence of his tendency to land head first, after descending from tree/climbing structure.
Just curious, thanks for your answers.
Re: Documentary on Gao Gao
Wilderness scenery, as depicted in this film, is beautiful.
Then, without being rescued by Chinese forest rangers, his life might have ended prematurely, as a young sub-adult. That would have meant no Xiao Liwu, or his 4 elder siblings, as we know them today.
During his stay at rescue center (late 1992 through 3/1995), he even had his face wiped clean, with a towel, after each hearty meal. With so much human contact, no wonder his release, after injury rehabilitation, failed. Much easier to raid for crops, than forage independently. His eventual recapture, in retrospect, turned out to be a big plus, for San Diego Zoo Global.
Danielle, thank you for giving your love to our panda family on my behalf!! Very much appreciated! I have tiried a few times recently to send blogs but they failed to show, will persevere , you are so fortunate to enjoy your panda visits and also sure they all know who you are! Thanks again !!
Monitor’s note: I checked our spam filter to see if you comments ended up there by mistake (it happens, but very rarely), but didn’t see any comments from you or Danielle. Don’t know where they went—so sorry!
For users of smart phones, there is a SDZ app, entitled ‘Giant Panda Gao – Facebook’, posted 3/14/2014, by Sara Cheng. That documentary, ‘Giant Panda Gao Gao Returning Home’, can be accessed through there as well.
You can utilize English subtitles, previously provided by blogger P. Wong, while viewing the film (See my earlier post below).
On another note, not trying to blow my own horn:
9/11/2009 panda blog/keeper notes, ‘Panda Ducklings’, SDZ researcher discussed my webbed hind feet, a trait also inherited by 4 of my offspring. It epitomizes valuable contribution, towards genetic diversity of our species. Hence, both SDZ and China, regard myself & my kids highly, from breeding perspective. Similarly, it holds true for Hua Mei (sole offspring of late, wild-born Shi Shi, my predecessor).
Monitor’s note: Here is the link for the Panda Ducklings? blog.
However, there is no “Giant Panda Gao” app or “Giant Panda Gao” Facebook page operated by San Diego Zoo Global.
Hi Lindsay,
I wrote you a little post the other day and to MaryBeth, but it got lost in cyberspace.. I wanted you to know I was going to visit the pandas Saturday and Sunday and I would send them your love..
So I did anyway.. I think they gave a smile, a panda smile !
The pandas look magnificent! I Love them so much!
Danielle in San Diego
Re: My 1996 documentary on YouTube
It is narrated in Mandarin Chinese. Luckily, there is English subtitle available. Go to 1/19/2009 panda blog/keeper notes, ‘Celebrating Gao Gao’: Under comments, blogger P. Wong (posted on 1/21/09, 4:04 p.m.), provided English subtitles, to accompany that film.
My earlier timeline :-
Estimated birth year: 1990 (NOT 1992).
Winter, 1992: Found with multiple body injuries, including 2/3 left external ear torn/bitten off (by another creature/? panda).
1992 – 3/1994: Injury rehabilitation, at Feng Tong Zhai Wildlife Rescue Center.
4/1994 – late 1996: Briefly returned to the wild. Associating human presence with ready food supply, started raiding crops. Villagers welcomed me not.
1996 – 2001: Recaptured, and eventually sent to old Wolong Center at Hetaoping.
2002: SDZ matchmakers came calling.
1/15/2003: Arrived at San Diego, ushering in reign of Gao Gao the Great!
To my fans:
You may want to review the following panda blogs/keeper notes,
9/24/15, ‘Gao Gao Bread’. 1/13/15, ‘Happy Anniversary, Gao Gao’. 8/11/14, ‘Gao Gao, class clown (the Great)’.
A highly recommended documentary, ‘Giant Panda Gao Gao Returning Home’, is also available at YouTube site. It covered earlier life of yours truly, at old stomping ground, Feng Tong Zhai Nature Reserve
My mother never bothered to register my birth, with local authority. Thus, I have no official birth certificate, on file.
Folks, I was born in the wild, at Feng Tong Zhai Nature Reserve, Sichuan Province. Hence, my birthday is unknown. SDZ staff picks January 15th, date of my initial California arrival, as annual celebration for ‘reign of Gao Gao the Great’. In recent years, with me exquisitely sensitive to noises, due to advancing age; such occasions tend to be, behind-the-scene, low-key affairs.
Incidentally, because of my geriatric dentition; no more ice cake would be served, per order by my veterinary dentist.
Monitor’s note: Just a reminder for those that may be new here, the person commenting as “Gao Gao” (or any other panda) is not a San Diego Zoo Global staff member.
Happy birthday to you GAO, beautiful boy xx. Your lovely son is dozing high up in a branch just now enjoying the sun , lucky boy! It’s cold here in Ontario, Canada! Just to put the record straight , I love the pandas and I am not an adolescent youth, just a genuine animal lover.?????
Happy Birthday dear Gao Gao,I love your story
Happy Birthday to you Gao Gao You sire 5 babies, and you are such a great wonderful panda with your furry slippers…I thought Your “Little Gift” Xiao Liwu was going to have your furry slippers when he was a little baby cub… Your babies are precious.
Danielle in San Diego
I was happy again to see Yun Zi, he is getting really large!.. I wonder if he remembers where he was born here in San Diego, and I wonder if he thinks about us who love him so much and would come to see him at the zoo!
When Yun Zi eats his bamboo I wonder what goes through his mind!
Today! precious love Mr. Wu was eating his bamboo and you could tell how he enjoyed eating his bamboo..
It was such a beautiful day today , I love the way he poses on a tree on the branches…
Danielle in San Diego
To Panda Panda: Thanks for those YouTube videos of Yun Zi.
Unlike Xiao Liwu, size wise, Yunior has inherited genetic trait of Bai Yun (or maternal relatives).
Weight wise, Yun Zi probably will soon surpass, that of Gao Gao, as he matures into adulthood.
MaryBeth, I will give the pandas your message, sending your love to Gao Gao Bai Yun and darling Xiao Liwu (little gift) Mr. Wu as he is known at the Zoo..
Aren’t they just a bunch of LOVE those pandas! I can’t get enough of watching them.. I Love them so much..
Danielle in San Diego
Addendum: Yun Zi is now at Shijiazhuang, where he will stay for 3 years.
Shijiazhuang, provincial capital of Hebei Province, is located 164 miles (264 kilometers) SW from Beijing. For folks wishing to visit him, there is both air plus rail service, connecting Shijiazhuang with Beijing (or Shanghai).
For pandaholics preferring videos over still photos of Yunior, taken at his current home.
YouTube site – Search: ‘Giant panda Yun Zi posted by Ejie Z’.
Total: 5 videos. Duration: 1 to 5 minutes. Date Filmed: 11/8/2015. Poster: Ejie Z.
‘Yun Zi enjoying boo breakfast at outdoor yard’, Parts I and II. Light snowfall, from two days earlier, had melted.
‘Gnawing Chinese buns’, accompanied by “crunching noise” audio.
‘Eating bamboo indoors’: He stood up, near gate partition, expecting more. None was forthcoming, presumably morning meal had been delivered. He would have to wait for lunch later!
‘Ready for napping (after a hearty breakfast)’.
Last May, local reporter was given a tour of Yunior’s new residence, consisting of:
Outdoor courtyard,
Indoor, glass-enclosed, air-conditioned exhibit, plus
Private air-conditioned bedroom (Physical dimensions of all three areas unspecified).
Separate work station, where Chinese keepers prepare his meals.
Thank You! Thank You!
Moderator, Nelly, Panda Panda & Giant Panda Aficionados of SDZ
The URL addresses and GP info is so gratefully appreciated. It is simply wonderful to keep track of these very special bears especially when they have long left the US and are acclimating to their new lives in their ancestral home. So much is riding on the successful reintroduction of Giant Pandas and the reopening of corridors between the territories they once roamed. The extremely handsome Xiǎo Lǐwù might just be the father or grandfather of the new wave of bears released into the existing and proposed wildlife sanctuaries so the “cat bear” can once again claim its birthright in the mountains of central China.¹
❄ ❅ ❆
PS. Danielle – I so envy your close proximity to this beautiful giant panda family. Next time you visit SDZ, please give my love to Gao Gao, Bái Yún, and, of course to the very special little gift, Xiǎo Lǐwù. Thank you ever so much.
¹ Giant Panda range: www(DOT)chinatravel (dot) com/facts/habitat-of-giant-panda.htm
Thank you Monitor for our response, I too have a scar, on my knee that I have had since a was a little girl and it never went away.. I guess pandas are the same .
Today! that bamboo looks so delicious to the precious panda! After that El Nino that passed during the night.
Danielle in San Diego
Per his keepers, Wu Bear is now an independent sub-adult. Soon, he will embark on new, exciting adventure, at his ancestral homeland. When that day does eventually come, we shall wish him, nothing but the best!.
Giant pandas have thick, oily fur coats, well suited for rain or snow. See Keeper Notes, 1/12/2016: ‘Here Comes The Rain’, plus 7/6/2015: ‘Thunder & Lightning’.
Once, at Wolong Nature Reserve, a wild panda tobogganed down snowy slope, to reach bamboo thickets on opposite side . That must be self-entertaining, as well as energy efficient way; to arrive at its destination, for a hearty meal!
To Samuel, JoAnn, Caroline, Jim and Mary Beth:
3/20/2013 YouTube video: ‘Panda Cub Playing in the Snow (at SDZ)’, uploaded by NTDTV, duration: about 2 minutes.
It features Xiao Liwu (then a 7-month-old cub, now a 3 & 1/2 years old sub-adult), together with mother Bai Yun. Such ‘Snow Days’ afford enrichment opportunities, for giant pandas plus polar bears alike, both are members of Ursidae family.
There are accompanying remarks, by his keeper. Pandas are here on research loan, as noted above. Reference is made to field studies, undertaken jointly by SDZ Global and Chinese scientists, at Foping (“Buddha Mound”) Nature Reserve, Shaanxi Province; on panda genetics, behavior, ecology, plus conservation.
Granted, in this video, Mr. Wu did not radiate equivalent “energetic exuberance”; as exhibited by his east coast cousins, during their encounters with blizzards.
It looks like our 2nd El Nino is passing here, having rain, winds etc.. Looking at the pandas, I don’t think they are into rain all that much…Mr. Wu is sure enjoying his bamboo though!
He still has that gig area on his side of his face where the fur hasn’t closed it off…
Monitor, that has been there for some time now! when do you think that will heal? It is Xiao Liwu?
Danielle in San Diego
Monitor’s note: Time will tell if it fills in… I still have a couple of scars from when I cut my knee when I was a kid. 😉
Dear Monitor,
What Samuel subject is an excellent idea!
The pandas are very special and it would be nice to have something special of Yun Zi and Xiao Liwu…
Danielle in San Diego
Certainly, there are television documentaries about Hua Mei, Mei Sheng, Su Lin, plus Zhen Zhen. However, none such exists for Yun Zi, or Xiao Liwu. Perhaps, in the future, some knowledgeable panda enthusiasts, possessing audio-visual digital web skills; could compile cumulative, existing video clips of the duo, into one single post, and upload it onto YouTube site.
Compare and contrast SDZ-born pandas, trips down memory lane.
8/14/2014 YouTube video: ‘Pandamonium 3: Mei Sheng’s Tale’, uploaded by Jedapar, duration: 50 minutes.
It covers his sub-adult years in California, including ‘Snow Day’. Stipulations in loan agreement are mentioned (See blogger Jim’s 1/20/16 post). Film concludes, with his crate training plus 2007 repatriation. There is also footage of Hua Mei, then residing at old Wolong Center, after her own return in 2003.
9/4/2014 YouTube video: ‘Panda Tale: Zhen Zhen’, uploaded by Jedapar, duration: 42 minutes.
Behind-the-scene footage, deals with her first year: e.g. cub (neonatal) exams, nursing sessions, naming ceremony, plus 1st birthday celebration etc. Set to music, there are narrative remarks, by SDZ veterinarians and conservation scientists.
Well Mr. Wu you are and always will be my baby , since I adopted you on your first birthday,, When puppy girl and I both adopted you the same time, and we became your God-Mothers.. We said you would always be our very special baby.. Unfortunately puppy girl is no longer with us, I guess it’s been over a year now since she’s gone..
I’ll come to see you this week-end , it’s been the perfect weather here in San Diego, it will be so nice to see the pandas…
Sleep well little darling Xiao Liwu, you are growing into such a gorgeous panda, you will always have that special baby face…
Danielle in San Diego
9/30/2015 YouTube video: ‘Panda Baby Hua Mei’, uploaded by ‘See you dream’, duration: 1 hour.
This is a 2001 documentary, jointly produced by SDZ and PBS. It may be worth watching, for first-time viewers, or for folks to refresh their memory. Notable scenes include:
Collaborative research efforts between SDZ Global, and CCRCGP staff (now about 20 years, as indicated above).
Panda communications, plus breeding (mating & artificial insemination).
First giant panda, to undergo MRI scanning.
Cub check-ups, & adult exams. under general anesthesia.
Husbandry, nursery care, plus stealthy technique of ‘twin swapping’.
Den phase of Hua Mei (1st U.S.-born cub, to survive into adulthood. Presently, in her own right, a proud mother of 9 living offspring).
Conservation approaches in the wild, and much more.
A printed book, of same title, is also available. Though written primarily for children, it does contain many photos, pertaining to Hua Mei’s stay at San Diego Zoo (1999 – 2003).
I have been watching Mr Wu since birth and as many do love him so very much. He is my first cub that I became familiar with and I so enjoy watching him daily on the Panda Cam. The above blog from Karyl is just wonderful along with the beautiful pics. of Mr Wu. I would like to ask if the SDZ could compile a book of Mr Wu with the wonderful pics from birth to present and the interesting comments from the keepers and vets. to sell with the proceeds to go the Pandas for enrichments etc. I would so appreciate having a booklet of Mr Wu to look at and hold in my lap when I’m sad and longing to see Mr Wu and he’s no longer at the SDZ.
Moderator, I too am interested in Caroline’s request..
Would you please if it’s not too much trouble find out for us.. Thanks!
Mr. Wu Xiao Liwu, loves to erch himself on the tree, he is so handsome this precious Love of a panda… Just like his older brother Yun Zi.
Danielle in San Diego
To Moderator: A little (“xiao”) request.
In 3/20/15 panda blog, a passing reference was made, on collaborative studies, conducted by SDZ Institute of Conservation Research, at Foping Nature Reserve/Shaanxi Province, China.
I understand, Foping has a wild giant panda population, as well as other wildlife, making it a diverse ecosystem.
Can you ask your scientists, to give us an expanded update, detailing research projects at that locale? Most readers will sure welcome such enlightenment. Thanks..
Monitor’s note: I’ve passed the request along. We’ll have to wait until they have time to respond.
Look like Mr. Wu is stuck at the 150 lb-ish weight.
Almost every day I open up this blog to look at Mr. Wu’s pictures … So luv the little man 🙂
QUESTIONS FOR MODERATOR: on PANDA WEIGHT & DIET.
1) Do weekly weigh-ins occur before breakfast?
2) In the wild, 99% of panda diet, consists of (calorie-poor, but high-fiber) bamboo. How is that compared to managed care setting, at San Diego Zoo?
3) Apples, carrots, and especially sweet potatoes, are calorie-dense, carbohydrate-rich food. Is there any quantity limit on such items, to guard against development of obesity, mucous stools, or other untoward gastrointestinal ailments?
I remember reading, both Gao Gao and Bai Yun had experienced, painful passage of bloody mucous stools in the past.
Thanks in advance for your informative reply.
Hi, Rosemarie – I agree with you 100%.
Thanks for the quick reply, Keeper Jennifer! I know how busy you all are.
This article is a couple of months old. Mr. Wu’s current weight is 150 lbs and he consumes about 17-25 pounds of bamboo daily.
I am curious about Wu’s weight. The article states 134, but a few months ago, he was weighing in at 155, nearly 160. Has he lost that much weight or is it just an old number? He certainly looks bigger these days, but hard to tell. Thanks!
To Rosemarie: You are welcomed.
I appreciate Jim’s blog, which reminds us of loan agreements with China, as well as our own Fish & Wildlife Service policy regarding pandas;
also blogs by others that are more informative —-not the repetitive “I love you, I love you”, unless they are posted by 10 year olds. Sorry if I am offending anyone. Would like more posts from keepers, though I realize they are busy with caring for the pandas and other animals. Have visited the zoo several times — it is beautiful — and great weather.
Moderator, would you tell us how much Xiao Liwu eats of bamboo per day..Thank you in advance.
Danielle in San Diego
Hi, Linda: Giant pandas consume lots of bamboo daily. It is certainly more economical, for each zoo to grow its own. Having more than 1 species on hand, also guards against staple shortage, resulting from ‘sudden massive flowering & die off’ phenomenon.
Like humans, taste buds of pandas, too, take time to adjust. When one panda pair first arrived in U.S., they initially held their noses towards American bamboo.
Mr. Wu is raised on California bamboo, since age 1 yr. He will have to acclimatize for Chinese varieties, upon repatriation. However, it should not be a major problem.
Bamboo is grown, on grounds of Escondido Safari Park. Donated supply also comes from Huntington Beach. They serve as staple, for both giant and red (lesser) pandas, at San Diego Zoo.
There is now, locally cultivated bamboo on premise, at Yun Zi’s current home. Weekly shipments, via air freight, can be expensive.
To my fans, now is your chance, to vote for 2016 ‘Giant Panda Global’ awards. Nomination closes on February 3rd. Vote for me!
Dear Mary Beth: 7/2015 Chinese (Hebei News) media.
Per his present lead keeper, Ms. Lina Zhang: Yun Zi still has trouble, comprehending Chinese (Mandarin, spoken in Hebei dialect). Commands such as, ‘sit down’, or ‘stand up’ etc., have to be given in English [When he departed for Dujiangyan in 2014, San Diego Zoo prepared DVD, detailing hand signals, used in his husbandry. It was turned over to CCRCGP staff. Wonder what has happened to that DVD?].
His bamboo is flown in, weekly from Sichuan.
At same website (see my earlier post), top of home page, there is orange icon (=’Message board’, via Google toolbar English translation). You can make inquiry on Yun Zi. Nonetheless, as per SDZ moderator, zoo staff’s first responsibility, is caring for their charges. Hence, they may be unable, to respond to every single question, in timely manner.
To Mary Beth: One place to look for SDZ-born pandas, is YouTube site. Periodically, people will download their videos there. Just search: ‘giant panda (given name)’.
For 2015, there are videos of Mei Sheng, Su Lin (& her 2014 cub), plus Zhen Zhen (with one of her 2015 twin cubs); filmed by visitors to Bifengxia.
No recent video on Hua Mei, as indicated by SDZ researcher earlier: She is at Wolong Nature Reserve, with her 10th offspring.
Yun Zi: A 5/11/2015 news story (in English), accompanied by four photos, reported him settling down, at his current Hebei home (accessible via web search). One photo showed him, surveying his outdoor courtyard, then at spring time. Contrast that, with 11/2015 photo (see reader Nelly’s post), taken in winter. As per SDZ, giant pandas have thick oily fur, protecting them against rain and snow.
Dear Mary Beth, plus others who might be interested,
Re: Recent news on Yun Zi – at www(dot)sjzszoo(dot)com.
At top of its homepage, click on 3rd icon (in LIGHT green characters). Use Google toolbar for English translation = ‘News Announcement’.
New window opens, showing line item: “Snow Coming, 11/6/2015”. Click on that, you will see outdoor photo of YUN ZI.
Caption reads: ‘Snow blanketing entire enclosure, but no wet fluffy stuff on Yun Zi’s body’.
During last summer & October, local schoolchildren had opportunities, to learn about giant pandas, as well as meeting Yun Zi (Separated by protective barriers, for obvious safety reasons). To leave a vivid impression, nothing beats seeing a live animal in person.
[I understand, San Diego Zoo, too, has similar programs, targeting youngsters, in small group sessions.]
He will turn age 6 & 1/2 years, ahead of upcoming spring mating season. No word yet, on whether he would be chosen as a participant.
Mr. Wu, still has that one spot showing on the side of his head, where he may have hurt himself.. I suppose in time it will no longer show as the fur grows in that place… Say happy Mr. Wu I pray for you everyday and your parents.
Danielle in San Diego
A quiet Sunday! it was nice to see the pandas..
I love going to the San Diego Zoo, it’s such a welcoming place..
Danielle in San Diego
Mr. Wu, you are such a darling panda , sitting there on your tree, you are smiling..I wonder what you are thinking about!
Danielle in San Diego
Dear Jim and Nelly
Jim: The subject of Xiǎo Lǐwù’s departure to China has been hashed around since he was born because everyone being so enamored with this gorgeous little boy were posing scenarios in which he could stay, I included. We knew it was not a possibility then as we know now the complexities of the agreement with China, in that all the Giant Pandas were on loan, could be returned or repatriated as quickly as China gave the word. So, most teasingly, I presented another “scheme” to keep our little gift here as an outward expression of affection for him knowing how much I will miss him when his time comes to return to China. One thing though: if it weren’t for lucky happenstance that Meg was near Yun Zi on her venture to China, we would not have heard anything about him since his departure. It seems as soon as the SDZ offspring make it to China, we are given scant news about them and this could be true for all of the repatriated bears from zoos around the world, too. The thought of not knowing how Wu is doing in the home of his ancestors just makes me very sad.
Nelly: Because I couldn’t find my notes on Xiǎo Lǐwù’s naming day, I went back to a website I had found that translates English into traditional & simplified Chinese and Pinyin: www(DOT)thepurelanguage.com It is where I found the following results for ‘little’: 矮小 – Short (small) – ǎixiǎo; 小 – Small (few – young) – xiǎo; 小小 – Small (tiny) – xiǎoxiǎo; 少 – Few (lack – little – be missing) – shǎo. Because I do not understand Chinese, I picked the symbol with the English word ‘little’ between the parenthesis which now that you point it out, I see is the wrong definition for size versus volume or count. Thank you for the correction. I ♥ 小禮物 😀
Monitor’s note: It’s important to keep in mind that when pandas born in San Diego go to new homes in China, the staff there is focused on the care of that individual—and many others—so their focus is on their facility and the creatures in their care. This is true about any animal born at the Zoo or Park that is relocated, whether bear or jaguar or eagle or iguana. The reports we get when our staff has a chance to visit or communicate with other institutions are the icing on the cake. In general, no news is good news! 🙂
Mediterranean climate is characterized by warm dry summers, plus mild wet winters. Per climatologists & geographers, coastal California, including San Diego, fits such description (not withstanding recent drought or El Nino).
Please also read 1/12/16 article, ‘Down Comes the Rain’, on how SDZ animals, giant pandas included, handle rainy weather.
Hello Flynn, San Diego Zoo is in Southern California.. We are not on the Mediterranean, we are located by the Pacific Ocean..
It is a beautiful area and our weather has been changing as most of the Unites States we are having climate change…
For our pandas , we sometime have snow brought in to them and they like it very much…It is real snow not make believe…
Mr. Wu and Bai yun and Gao Gao are so wonderful and I’m so happy that I live close enough to visit the giant pandas very often..
My husband and I love the San Diego Zoo and all that it has to offer.. We love the pandas…
Danielle in San Diego
With its mild Mediterranean climate, there is no need for glass enclosure, at San Diego Zoo’s outdoor panda exhibits.
At other places, where season is hot (some may be year-round); glass partitions, enclosing outdoor areas, are tinted, to reflect off ultraviolet sun rays (similar to car’s windshield). Obviously, quarters are air-conditioned; as giant pandas, while well adapted for cold snowy climate, are ill-suited for hot, humid weather.
I saw you walking a lot this morning Mr. Wu, you sure were getting your exercise
Sleep well tonight
Danielle in San Diego!
How about doing research for sun glasses for Mr. Wu and his dad and mom!
Since San Diego Zoo is all about research for pandas.. Why not sun glasses the the ultra violet rays won’t hurt these magnificent giant pandas.
Gao Gao you are so wondeful, and Bai Yun you are so beautiful and Xiao Liwu you melt my heart, I love you three so much..
Danielle in San Diego
After his eventual repatriation, Wu Bear could be a goodwill ambassador. Instead of being viewed as, mere “cute, #1 national treasure”; his live appearance would be able, to impart plight of endangered species, and necessity to save such iconic creatures. Such message is especially critical, starting early on; for Chinese school children, as they are the next generation.
Mary Beth – Just a minor correction, on Xiao Liwu’s name in Chinese characters.
The first Chinese character, as currently posted, means “minus, or missing”.
Deleting bottom downstroke from first Chinese character, then correctly represents “little, or small”.
Hi, Mary Beth: Understandably, adoring panda fans want Mr. Wu to stay.
However, loan agreement calls for SDZ (overseas)-born pandas be repatriated, at sub-adult age (around 4 years old, as stated above).
Keeping him stateside, strongly runs inbreeding risk: as one on the east coast, is a first-degree cousin; while the other two are destined for a Chinese institution, not associated with SDZ.
Bringing another female from China, does not solve mate behavioral compatibility issue, as already noted previously. Further, it would cost additional US$1 million annual loan fee, on top of US$500,000 paid yearly for his parents. Besides, Fish & Wildlife Service will NOT issue U.S. import permit, for SOLE purpose of captive breeding.
Whereas, there are many more mate choices available, at his ancestral homeland. From species conservation perspective, taking into consideration of genetic diversity plus behavioral compatibility, this option is much more preferable.
Hence, both administratively and biologically, Xiao Liwu’s future lies in China, just like his siblings (who are thriving over there). It is his destiny!
Note:
1) SDZ always stresses its is a research loan, not a breeding one.
2) For Fish & Wildlife Service’s ‘Policy on Giant Panda Permits’, do web search: “giant panda policy, Federal Register”. Entire document can be viewed and downloaded, in PDF format.
3) While each loan agreement may differ somewhat in minor specifics, its overall general content should be similar for all overseas zoos. You can get a representative copy, via contacting an institution on the east coast (one supported by U.S. taxpayers), by citing Freedom of Information Act.
Xiǎo Lǐwù ♥ 少禮物 ♥ Little Gift
Oh sweet precious child of nature, the gorgeous photos posted above only offer a fraction of your allure. The Panda Cam enabled the most intimate views of your birth, followed by months of nurturing via the most gentle and experienced paws of your mother, Bái Yún, and then, your introduction to the world on exhibit. It is through this window I fell in love with you as if you were one of my companion animals, a love beyond my usual obsession with God’s creation. From your nursing sessions, wriggly protests of being washed, weekly exams by the vets and keepers, adorable first wobbly steps, painfully cute possessiveness of a round green ball to your comical antics exploring your new outdoor domain and tussles with mom in the snow, made you the absolute best reason to do nothing all day, everyday but watch you on Panda Cam. Though I don’t get to watch you everyday as I used to because life keeps butting in, it does not diminish my adoration of you one iota. It’s just now after reading the above article about you, the action I dread most of all is sneaking up closer and closer — your imminent departure to China — I positively rue that day!! Why isn’t there a way that you could remain here where you were born?
Bái Yún’s inability to conceive this past breeding season was no one’s fault but it is a sign, I believe, her reproductive years are behind her. After expertly rearing six beautiful and exemplary cubs, Bái Yún has earned a nice quiet retirement as does her devoted mate Gao Gao. So here goes an idea I have — why not find a genetically compatible female for Xiǎo Lǐwù and begin a new generation of Giant Pandas at the SDZ? If the new bride-to-be was recently independent of mom and brought here, in a couple years both bears would be ready for parenthood. There would be two areas of study on Giant Pandas at SDZ, geriatrics and obstetrics (don’t know if it is referred to the same as humans?) How exciting would that be? What do you think or say or …??
I’m desperate for “the Wu” to stay. Can you tell?
To Monitor: Thanks for providing link to, ‘The Light Side’ article. It is very informative. Learn some new terms like, ‘leucistic’, or ‘leucism’.
Also enjoy reading 1/2016 ZOONOOZ issue, ‘It Bears Repeating: Ursidae Family’ article (including, but not limited to Ailuropoda melanoleuca).
Much appreciate SDZ Global’s efforts, in educating the public, plus species conservation.
Dear Benjamin & Kathey,
First, a minor digression: Just read SDZ Polar Bear Facts – “While it may appear white, its outer coat of guard hairs, actually consists of clear, hollow, air-filled tubes”.
Never heard of albino giant pandas; besides, albinism is a recessive genetic trait. Only 2 pandas have official photographic documentation of brown pigmentation.
Pandas can develop cataracts, from chronic, unprotected ultraviolet ray exposure. However, due to lack of panda-specific, intraoccular lens implants, surgery (alone) does not restore vision completely to normal.
One panda had successful resection, for eyelid cancer. Afterwards, they have to provide more tree shades, plus limiting his outdoor exposure.
In 2014, Gao Gao became the second panda, to undergo operation for testicular cancer (seminoma). Per pathologist, such carcinoma is more common in domestic animals, especially older dogs [See 5/13/2014 SDZ article, ‘Pathologist’s Report on Gao Gao’s Tumor’].
Monitor’s note: We’re veering off topic with this subject. 🙂 However, for those interested in lighter-colored animals, here is a link to the January 2014 ZOONOOZ that contains an article that discusses the difference between albino and leucistic animals.
I should have mentioned that I still have that January 1986 Zoonooz. I think that cancer may be more common in animals, depending on the species and even the skin color. I have heard of horses that have a lot of white hair (including Appaloosas and pintos) with pink skin contracting skin cancer. Some horse owners even use human based sun screen on their horses. Some other animals will also have different or unusual color phases. There was a purebred Thoroughbred that was also an overo paint. When he was born, the breeders thought that the mare had not settled with the stallion she had been bred to, and somehow “connected’ with a paint stallion because she was about a month overdue. A blood test proved the Thoroughbred stallion was indeed the sire. Because the Jockey Club Registry has no color category for paint, Tri Chrome was registered as a bay colt. His owners registered him also with the Paint Horse Registry. He was raced two years against both Throughbreds and Paints before disappearing from the scene. Apparently, he never made it to the breeding shed.
Hi, AL and Kathey:
Calcium and vitamin D are provided as supplements, for skeletal health of giant pandas.
Provisions for tree shades, plus limiting exposure time outdoors, serve as prudent measures.
Nonetheless, other means, to protect against ultraviolet ray-induced body damages, might be warranted. Perhaps, there ought to be panda-specific, wide-brimmed hats, sun glasses, as well as sunscreen lotions, for these b/w fur balls. JUST KIDDING!
Watching the perfect round ears giant panda sitting on the black hammock eating bamboo, the sweetheart is so handsome. holding with the right hand , I mean paw a big piece of bamboo and the left paw expertly breaking each piece of bamboo with his back giant molars and chewing it as if it was piece of soft bamboo and it isn’t..
The camera switches to the other precious panda he is looking as if waiting for his next course on a tree stump that looks like a little round table with his breakfast on it.. so cute, so adorable..
The camera switches back to Mr. Wu who is still at it on that very large bamboo stick…What treasure these pandas are..
We are so fortunate to have the pleasure to observe these magnificent giant pandas from birth on.
Have a great day dear pandas on Martin Luther King Day♥
Always wonderful to see the pandas on the web cam daily. Thanks to modern technology! What would we do without it..we would not have such privilege to see the precious pandas on a daily basis..
Perfect dad Gao Gao, Bai yun such a terrific mother to all her cubs, and always looking so poised.. The smartest baby doll sweet intelligent , quick thinker Xiao Liwu, better known as (our) own precious Mr. Wu..
The three giant pandas are part of our lives which we will never forget as long as we live..
Mr. Wu you will and are always be my darling precious treasure of a panda..As much as I love your siblings and I do, you, I adopted when you were one year old, along with others, a dear friend of mine (puppy girl), we told each other we would be your God-mothers, as you are so gifted as your name means (little gift)… I will be coming to see you in a few days and see your beautiful mom and wonderful dad…
I love you , you three dear giant pandas,
Danielle in San Diego
Dear Kathey,
Gao Gao hails from Baoxing County/Sichuan Province, so do parents of Bai Yun.
Qinling Mts are within Shaanxi Province, which contain Foping (“Buddha Mound”) Nature Reserve; where SDZ scientists, together with Chinese colleagues, conduct field conservation research (See 3/20/15 SDZ article, ‘Our Panda Family’).
Brown pigmentation probably represents mere color variation, as DNA comparison has revealed only minor differences, between Shaanxi versus Sichuan populations. That particular panda you mentioned, is now deceased; cause of death: metastatic squamous cell (skin cancer) of the tail.
Of Interest: In 1869, at Baoxing County; Pierre Armand David, a French naturalist, was presented with specimens of black & white pigmented animals. He identified them as bears, and reported their existence to outside world. His classification was over-ruled by his Paris superior, who considered them as raccoons instead. Modern DNA analysis proves Pierre David to be correct. Giant pandas are indeed bears!
Reading about the reddish tint to Mr. Wu’s fur reminded me of the cover of the January 1986 Zoonooz that featured a brown and white phase panda. There was only one other photo in the magazine with a short comment that stated her name was Dan Dan and lived at the Xian Zoo in Shaanxi Province. She was found in the Qinling mountains.
In 9/24/2015 SDZ article, ‘Special Bamboo Bread Baked Daily For Elderly Giant Panda’: there is Gao Gao’s photo, plus video of him enjoying a meal.
One can see, his left external ear is smaller. Besides special bamboo bread (“Gao Gao Bread”, baked daily), his servings of cracked bamboo stalks, are trimmed to 1 cm. in diameter. Such provisions allow ease of chewing, in light of his geriatric dentition.
In that YouTube documentary, Gao the sub-adult, then displayed acrobatic skills, in tree climbing. Nowadays, while he still climbs, Gao the elder is mostly terrestrial.
His small stature is brought into strong contrast, in multiple mating videos with Bai Yun. As indicated by others, this particular genetic trait, has also been inherited by Xiao Liwu, similarly of small size.
YouTube documentary on Gao Gao.
His former (Sichuan) stomping ground displays scenic landscape, with diverse ecosystem. In his rehabilitation stay, he had his face wiped clean with a towel, after each hearty meal. During his brief release, he began raiding crops, making him most unwelcome to villagers. Hence, he was recaptured, which in retrospect, ultimately turning into a big plus for San Diego Zoo!
For folks who might have missed it earlier, there is an one-hour, YouTube documentary: ‘Giant Panda Gao Gao Returning Home’,
It covered him, then as a sub-adult; first came under managed care, being rescued from the wild, after fighting with another creature (?panda) [He is missing, two-thirds of his external left ear, as result of that encounter].
After injury rehabilitation, he was briefly returned to the wild. However, with too much human contact, he found independent foraging unattractive. So, he was recaptured; when in 2002, San Diego Zoo matchmakers came calling.
Only drawback of this film, it is narrated in Chinese. Nonetheless, most footage is self-explanatory.
In recent years, Gao Gao’s “arrival anniversary” celebrations, had been “behind-the-scene”, quiet affair.
Per moderator: With advancing age, Gao is exquisitely sensitive to loud noises.
Moreover, ice cake is now off the menu; to decrease further wear & tear, on his restored geriatric dentition.
With estimated birth year of 1990, he is an elderly panda. As some have suggested, he qualifies for AARP membership.
Perhaps, SDZ can provide his updated photos, a/o video for readers, to mark this year’s occasion.
I remember When Gao Gao came to San Diego it was such a special day!!!!
This morning wonderful Gao Gao was sitting on his “blanket ” so cute It’s so easy to know it’s him with his big furry cozy slippers, he carefully climbed down from his hammock, he left his blanket there, I guess so when he returned it would be there for Gap Gao to take a nap..
Mr.Wu on his tree where he likes to perch himself everyday looks so pensive!
I wonder if he is thinking of the future like we humans do! that we won’t know for a long time…
Beautiful Bai Yun looks gorgeous! she sure keeps herself looking perfect…
I Love those three pandas…
Date of Arrival, for Gao Gao at San Diego Zoo: January 15th, 2003.
Hi Karyl:
Thanks for your update! Will you be celebrating Gao Gao’s arrival at the zoo this year as in years previously? Years past his “birthday celebration” has been in January since he is wild born with no designated birthday.right? Thanks again!
So enjoyed the latest update about the pandas! Mr Wu, as well as Bai Yun and Gao Gao provide San Diego Zoo visitors and those viewing the cam countless hours of enjoyment. Can’t wait until my next visit this spring!
What a great update on Xiao Liwu. Thank you Karyl!
Mr wu has that special sparkle, full of fun and it always seems as if he knows he is entertaining us! Lucky us!!
Mr. Wu, you are a very special panda and I will Love you always and every day of my life I pray for you for always…
I cannot even “bear” to think about him leaving. I too love Mr. Wu and hardly a day has gone by that I haven’t watched him.
He is a wonderful zoo ambassador and is absolutely precious. There is something very special about him.
The time will come soon enough for Mr. Wu to leave his birthplace.. I enjoy him daily and love him dearly along with his parents and his siblings…
Right now I’m concentrating on a day to day with precious darling Xiao Liwu (Little Gift) Mr. Wu the wonderful intelligent smart, handsome , darling little panda sweetheart that he is…
Danielle in San Diego
Before his departure for China, Yun Zi was also recruited for blood pressure study. However, he tore up his Velcro cuff repeatedly. Wonder whether any BP readings were ever obtained from him?
Two other Xiao Liwu’s siblings, Su Lin and Zhen Zhen, participated in hearing study, while at SDZ. Perhaps, Gao Gao did as well.
In addition, Shi Shi (Bai Yun’s first mate, now deceased) afforded SDZ staff; valuable opportunities in husbandry, plus veterinary care of a geriatric panda.
Interesting to know, all 3 SDZ pandas are participants, in blood pressure study.
Previously, Xiao Liwu’s two eldest siblings (Hua Mei & Mei Sheng), also served as subjects; in research on mating vocalizations, plus mate behavioral compatibility. Those were collaborative undertakings, as well, between SDZ Global and CCRCGP.
Indeed, such projects provide valuable information, towards species conservation. Further, they will satisfy ‘research loan requirements’, as outlined by U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, for allowing giant panda imports.
To Caroline, Gao Gao and Bai Yun:
Per SDZ, giant pandas progress through different stages of growth & development, as normal part of their physiological process. I agree with you, Mr. Wu the independent sub-adult, is fully capable for brave new adventures, in next chapter of his life.
“Peter Pan”, the fictional boy who never grows up, exists only in man-made fairy tale!
In about two and a half years, Wu the sub-adult, would attain sexual maturity, and reach adulthood; thereby becoming eligible to participate, in China’s breeding program, at land of his ancestors.
I applaud SDZ Global’s collaborative effort, with CCRCGP; in conservation of this iconic, endangered species.
I look forward to my eventual, first ever, trans-Pacific flight, to be an AIRBORNE panda!
Our daughter, Zhen Zhen, left San Diego at age 3. Xiao Liwu, our youngest offspring, has been independent for almost 2 years now. When time comes for him to depart, he will certainly do just fine, like his siblings.
Rosetta, Many thanks for your information I will most certainly go on to these web sites…:)
Hi, Amanda: Regarding your webcam inquiry, try these (English language) sites,
www(dot)en(dot)ipanda(dot)com/live.
www(dot)explore(dot)org.
Bear in mind, time zone differences.
Thank you for the person who took all these amazing pictures of Mr. Wu, they are gorgeous!!!!!
I hope Xiao Liwu will stay here a long time, he is only 3 years old… too young to be traveling…
I LOVE this baby, he will always be my baby no matter what age he gets…
Danielle in San Diego
I have watched and loved every minute of Mr. Wu’s life ….I can hardly believe we are coming to an end…that we will never see this lovely little bear again :'( …..He is so special to me because he was the first Panda bear i’ve seen from birth….But he has to leave to start another adventure and we must say good bye with a smile….luckily I’ll be sitting at a computer so no one will see my tears..I hope we lots of notice so we have a good amount of time to say are good byes……Does China never have web cams so we may keep up with the Pandas??
I’d say Mr. Wu doesn’t mind the blood pressure check process because he got the honey water and/or Fuji apple pieces, and the Keepers’ attention in return 🙂
I LOVE Xiao Liwu “The Thinker”, Sometime he actually looks like he is thinking !
He is such a special precious panda! Who could not LOVE any pandas…
Danielle in San Diegp
I enjoyed this very interesting post on our dear Xiao Liwu. I noticed the beautiful photos. The layout, with its drop caps is very nice and well designed. Congratulations to the authors : great job 🙂 !
Thank you for this update. It’s been awhile since I have seen anything on our panda family. Thank you to everyone who keeps them healthy and happy. Look forward to visiting the zoo again in the near future.
Wonderful blog about our dear Mr. Wu. He was my very first panda cub, I can’t recall how many times during the last 3 years he made me “oh and ah and lol”. Kudos to all his keepers and staff. You do good.
GREAT photos and interesting information about the pandas and ,in particular, Xiao Liwu!!?
Wonderful pictures. Thank you for posting them..
It’s so nice to see and read everything about this precious panda Mr. Wu..
These are fabulous pictures and everything posted about Xiao Liwu,
Than you for all the information you give us concerning this sweet darling panda…
He is such a handsome panda
Danielle in San Diego
Best blog post ever, thank you! I dearly love this little bear and the photos are the best ever. This post is a keeper!!!!!
He sure is fun to watch ?
Well, we always knew Wu was indeed a gift, exceptional in every way, a joy to watch, dare devil in his play, and as a young cub, definitely not a water baby, but oh the fun and games when he celebrates his birthday party, or just relaxes and enjoys the sunshine. Thank you little one for all the entertainment and education you have unwittingly gave to me and your legion of fans around the world. I so enjoy these updates from the staff at SDZ, thank you.