At two months old, our male giant panda cub is doing well. Following Chinese tradition, the little guy will be bestowed a name after he is 100 days old. But what name?
Visitors to the San Diego Zoo will have an opportunity to name the cub. Beginning Saturday, October 10, through Monday, October 19, we are asking the community to visit the Giant Panda Research Station to suggest a name. The names should be in Chinese (Pinyin), have an English translation, be symbolic in meaning, and delivered in person to the panda exhibit October 10–19.
For those who cannot come to the Zoo during that time, we’ll also be offering a special link where you can submit your name suggestion, following the same naming criteria listed above. We’ll post that link as soon as it’s ready.
After this 10-day period, the Zoo’s giant panda team, comprised of keepers, veterinarians, scientists, and others, will choose several names from suggestions made by Zoo visitors. The Chinese Wildlife Conservation Association will then review the selected names. Once approved, the names will be posted on our Web site and on our Facebook page for a final vote by the global community.
Check the Panda Cam page for updates on when to vote online. The name that receives the most votes will be announced at a ceremony held at the Zoo on Tuesday, November 17, when the cub is 104 days old. We look forward to your name suggestions!
Boo!!! I can’t suggest ROLY POLY now!!!
I hope someone else does!!
Viva ROLY POLY!!!
Awwww can’t wait when he has a name. So far he’s “Ozo”, “El Baby”, “Bola”, (translation: Bear, The Baby, Ball) in my office. I will definitely submit a name! He’s too cute! Gotta ask my dad for assistance, he’s chinese!
Finally! Thank you for the naming update. Wish we could be there. We were there for Zhen Zhen’s name nominations, but unfortunately neither one of our suggestions were picked.
I think it’s great that you give the public a chance to take part in naming the cub and it will be fun to finally see him bestowed with a name! I think of the cub as the baby of China and the SDZ and trust in the powers that be to pick the perfect names from which the world will choose. With that in mind, I can only imagine how hard it would be to turn over the naming of a baby to a vote if I were in your shoes, so I’m grateful to be able to vote when the time comes. Thank you!
I am disabled and will never be able to visit your wonderful zoo expect via the live cams. I would very much like to enter a name for this precious baby boy Panda but your site say’s you have to visit. Can you make any exceptions for the disabled? Thank you.
Oh so sad; i was hoping to send you my suggestion by e-mail as I am from Switzerland
No online submissions?! Someone please go to the zoo to put Roly Poly Dude in the race! I don’t think I can vote for any other name, it’s too cute.
Yayyyy !! Cant wait !! See if I can come up with anything.
#5 Kathy, #6 Helena, and #7 DC
Not to worry! We’ve decided to open it up to all for sending in names and the blog post has been amended to include this info. Start thinking of names!
Ah I forgot my suggestion would be “Tao Tao” because in my childhood there was this wonderful animated (japanese) series of a baby panda boy named “Tao Tao” and his mother in China. The story was about the adventures he had with his friends, it was so exciting for me as a child.
Unfortunately on youtube there is only the german intro: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=blZ1o7F-XE8
The ending says “little panda boy watch out, watch out for you and your friends…”
I would really like it if someone in San Diego could submit a name with “Ming” in it. Our country doesn’t have any cubbies with “Ming” as part of their name. “Ming” means “shining, bright, or clear” in Chinese.
Moderator’s note: You’ll be able to submit your name suggestion online, beginning Oct. 10!
Oh THANK YOU SOOOOOOOO much Panda Team!!!! Please consider yourself HUGGED!!!!
I don’t know Chinese nor have Chinese friends. I will search out names that help describe our little chubby cubby! So excited about the naming process and the possibility of being there for the actual ceremony. Cool!!
Am so glad for this opportunity…. We have all watched him from day one….
OMG big boo whould be his name!!
omg I am soo exited! for sure I’m looking for a name online …knowin us asian our name is unique ..gao gao, zhen zhen ..Lid Lid lol for realz thats my name (I’m actually filipino but we do the same)..
Butter Dude, Butter Dude….lol Ok I will submit a ‘real’ name. Thank you so much for the information Panda Team. You Rock! He’s getting sooooo huge and still so cute. I just might be able to be there for the naming ceremony. How exciting.
Rollpanda
I just peeked out our little guy, and saw the new post. I am so excited. He does need a VERY special name. My first cub to be able to vote on the name was Su Lin. And Su Lin was my choice. I don’t remember NZ opening the naming process to the public. ZA did, and that was great fun both times.
Thank you SDZ for making US feel like we are important.
I do like the nane tao tao or ming tao or tao ming hay gang what ya thing
Does anyone know the Chinese translation for “TANK”? Please, anyone??
i want the panda’s name to be oreo
I like the name suggested awhile back Gao Yun (Big Cloud) though # 11 Deb Ming Yun sounds lovely also : ) Since there is a possibility of this being Bai’s last cub it would be nice for him to carry her name. If no one else submits those names I would be honored to.
This will be so much fun!
Deb # 11: What about Ming Gao? Would that translate to Big Shining Bright? Or maybe Ming Yun? Would that translate to Shining Bright Cloud? I cannot wait to see the list!!!!
Research started ! Looking forward to participating from the tropics !!!
#1 sure you can. I asked my co-worker who is from hong kong for the translation and spelling.
yuan yuan is roly poly in mandarin according to our office manager…personally i just can’t abide the celestial themed names.
“Sir Oreo Creampuff Butterball”! OK — just kidding — I think someone thought of Gao Yun — which I think must mean “Big Cloud” — and would be a nice tribute to Big Daddy and Madame Bai Yun. Definitely going to submit for consideration.
#19 Linda/NorCal – NZ most certainly did open the naming to the public. I voted for Tai Shan, (peaceful mountain) the eventual winner. The others were: Hua Sheng, which means “China Washington” and “magnificent;” Sheng Hua, which means “Washington China” and “magnificent;” Long Shan, which means “dragon mountain;” and Qiang Qiang, which means “strong, powerful.”
Well Tai fit the mountain part, but was far from peaceful as a juvenile. I liked the sound of Qiang Qiang (chee-ong chee-ong), and I don’t know of another panda with that name. I am going to submit it for SDZ #5 since he is such a robust youngster. I am so glad they have opened it up to email suggestions.
Oh thank you so much for allowing us the opportunity to participate in naming the new Cubbie. You guys are fantastic at including everybody!!
Thank you to SDZ for giving us fans from far away an opportunity to participate in the naming process. I will try to come up with a dignified, proud name for a panda warrior
Lynda #21: No offence, but would you want to be named ‘tank’? Think of when we send him to China someday, all the other panda boys would tease him!
I was hoping for “CC”…(Chubby Cubby)
p.s. Does anyone know when CC will start crawling? Or do they crawl at all? I’m a new panda-addict. Thanks!
Moderator’s note: Check out the Panda Cub Milestones page, linked from the Panda Cam page.
Thinking about voting for Gao Shan – big mountain in Chinese??? or Tai Xiang – not sure what that means…
I have been waiting for this ! How exciting. I have a good name ready to go. I wish I could be there in person for it, but I will stay tuned via laptop from Virginia. Thank you once again panda team for giving everyone the opportunity to view && participate in something so amazing.
Thank you Panda Team for allowing those of us who cannot visit in person be part of this wonderful tradition. Since discovering your pandacam seven weeks ago, I’ve come to feel very deeply for the SDZ pandas, especially Bai Yun and our beautiful cubbie. I agree with 19 Linda A, he REALLY does need a very special name. Look at the rest of his family and then look at his eyes. He is incredible now and I just know he is going to be magnificent when he is grown. I can’t wait to see what names people come up with, I will do my best to come up with a special one myself!!
to those who do not have a chinese translator in their pocket, you can go to http://dictionary.reverso.net and type in the words that you are wanting to use… choose the ‘english to chinese’ option, and enter! It’s free, and does not require you to give personal information first! (and thank you Panda Team for opening the ‘name that panda’ contest up to those of us who can only visit via the computer. I have my name suggestion ready, and eagerly await the 10th so that I can send it in!)
While “Oreo” Might not be appropriate, it is REALLY, REALLY cute. That’s creative #22, Makayla..
I’m not sure why but I’m so attached to this cubby. I have spent more hours watching him than I have any of the other cubs. Having such an active “community” of posters and such great access to the moderator and the panda team intensifies the attachment.
ok everyonr here is the game plan- VOTE FOR THE NAME ROLY POLY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
if u dont ………… hum…………uh…………vote for………….the ……..name……………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………..i got it! if u dont vote for the name roly poly
[which you should] voth for the name “Zing” ok
I like Gao Yun, or maybe “roly poly” , or possibly “Full Moon” wish Oct. 10 was closer!!!!!!
Dear Panda Team,
Can you please suggest where I can find a way to translate English into Pinyin Chinese?
I think the Panda should be named băobèi which means “treasure” beacause they truly are a treasure.
I refer to him as DUMPLING as he is such a little pudgey. Just goes to show what an excellent Mummy Bai Yun is.
Anyone know? Does the name have to have two words? I noticed the others have to words to their name.
How exciting to be able to have a name for him in about 6 weeks. We all have so many nicknames for him! I keep coming to something with the word “moon” in it. Maybe because he is full and round and black and white, like a half moon or full moon, and that Bai keeps bringing him out at night to see the starry skies and moon! Anyone know the chinese word for moon? Is it Yue? If so, Ming Yue will be my vote! Sounds strong, lucky and beautiful, like he is!
Regarding not be able to be at the zoo to submit a name. Paragraph 3 above states that there will be an online link so you can submit a suggested name online. The cub is sooooo cute and chubby. Shows he nice and healthy. Can’t believe how big he has grown. I just love him to pieces.
I collect stuffed and china pandas. I have a darling set of twins, and one is Sunshine and the other Rain. My Chinese friend named them for me. I can pronounce their names but not spell them. so I can’t suggest these two. I would like Beau as his black eye patches remind me of a “bow” Jo
#22, is that as in “double stuff”? How do you translate that? LOL
How can I resist Chubby Cubbie?! he-he-he
#30, they won’t make fun of him, they’ll just get out of his way when they see him coming! Translated it probably sounds really cool and a little less like TANK (maybe more like BIG GUY) even though it actually means TANK!
i think that a good name for him could be ” XIN ZHU” =HEART OF BAMBOO;it is related to nature of feeling.The bamboo represents the nobility that is all nature, especially in this lovely baby and heart is connected to simple love.it means nobility of love.
thanks all people that make it is possible.let from south america
I really wish there were a way to work “San Diego” into the name, ala Mei Lan & Xi Lan (Atlanta Beauty & Atlanta Joy–I think!). It would be so nice to honor the people at the SDZ who have helped to raise FIVE fabulous cubs!
Welcome Aboard #31! You have been hooked by one of God’s sweetest creations – settle in and enjoy it – there’s no escape!
If my first suggestion is too out there, then what about Big Boy?! he-he-he Or – how does Bai’s Beautiful Boy translate?
#35 Fallbrook
Thank you for the info on translating to Chinese.
Oh my, now the fun begins
So many will submit so many wonderful names – but a word of caution – the Chinese have the final say & they (& we should also) want a dignified name -while Roly Poly & Tank, etc are fun now – we really don’t want our panda named “Tank” 
And also be advised if the Chinese don’t like the final list of names they have the final say 
#19 -LInda – yes, the NZ opened the voting to the public & one could vote as many times as one wanted. I know I voted many, many times for Tai Shan (peaceful mountain) as it fit him perfectly
Wish I could be there for the naming ceremony…that’s my birthday! Can’t wait to find out his name…he is so adorable!
#43 – Debi – I like your idea of a name with “moon” in it – or maybe stars – as Bai sure took this one out to watch the stars or moon. It’s going to be fun couple of weeks as all come up with their favorite names
#28 -Sharon – I do like your suggestion – Gao Shan – big mountain
Where is the Panda Baby?? I still have not seen him on the Cam!!!
On sad note on the front page of the Grand Rapids (MI) Press today – because of budget cuts – our local zoo either has to increase admission by $1.00or close the zoo during the winter (winter considered from 9/15 to May 15)
How many more staff will get laid off
And on even worse note I just watched the Tigers lose their division title to the Minn. Twins – somehow the Tigers who were in first place all season managed to lose it all this last week
Watching pandas are more fun than baseball
I think the name for the new baby cub, should be “August” in chinese because that’s the month that the baby was born in.
I think his name should be GEORGE. I’ve been looking for the chinese name but no luck so far.
how about “qiang” means strong or “jiang” means river. good luck finding one
I think this is a better fit “xiaobo” means little wrestler. He is so adorable
Regina S., Brazil; Hey, congrats to all of you in Brazil for winning the 2016 Summer Olympics! Have fun, you guys!
Yea!!! The naming contest is under way! I have to start looking at names but don’t know Chinese either. But, I’ll try to do my best! Maybe if I can write in an English name on the comments page, maybe someone can translate it to Chinese. I’ll be checking in to see if you all can do it. So, I’ll start to write down some possibilities. I feel that the name has got to be part of this cub’s cuteness, pudgyness, chubbyness, and just plain being adorable! He is just toooo adorable! Have we all said that about 50 or more times already?? Can’t help it, tho! I like “MING”, too! I also hope that someone can translate rolly polly into Chinese. Hey P Wong, any suggestions??
Linda A., Norcal; National Zoo DID have an online poll in 2005 for people to vote on 5 name choices on their panda page of which Tai Shan was one of the names. Tai Shan received his new name in Dec., 2005, after the votes were counted, and his name got the majority of the votes. Sorry that you missed out on the fun for Tai Shan! At least you will be in on the fun with this naming contest for this little chubby cubby! Have fun!
Kelly, Tampa; Hi to my Tampa/St. Pete area buddy! Don’t know you, but I’m glad that I’m not the only Floridian resident that writes on this comment page! Welcome to the craziest, funniest, loveable, creative bunch of pandafans on this comment page! Enjoy it, girlfriend! Keep watching the pandacam, too! This cub is just tooooooo adorable to miss everyday! We all love the pandas soooo much!!
Sharon, Ft. Worth; WOW!!! How did you remember all 5 of those names that NZ had on the list for online voting in 2005? I only remembered Tai Shan because I did vote for that name and that name was the eventual winner. Couldn’t think of the other 4 names. Gonna look at that list again and see if any of those names will fit this cute cub.
Been reading some of your comments, and there are some good name suggestions. Have fun with this one, you all! Can’t wait for exam #6 to see how much more weight this cub has gained!
Checked the pandacam, and Bai and cubbie are out of the den again tonite! Another campout under the stars! Have a good nite, Bai and cubbie!
Chari Mercier
St. Pete, FL
GAO XING – means happy.
I can’t wait for the time when we are going to start voting for our super adooooooorrrrrrrable little guy:-). In joining to vote for his name, he is going to be the first one for me. Oh, I CAN’T WAIT!!! I’ll be asking my friend what “adorable, huggable one” means in Chinese…
SDZ Panda Team, thank you so very much for this opportunity – words of thank you are not enough to express how grateful we all are for making us part of this special event.
LOOKING FORWARD TO OCT 10…
Will be ready with my name on the 10Th. Thank you #35 for the web page will look at it. He is very cute. I have enjoyed wacthing him grow will enjoy wacthing for the next 4yrs. I hope to see him at SDZ next year.
Oh Big roly poly boy should be his name. LOL!!
What a great opportunity for everyone! I have the date marked on my calendar.
I like the name Bai Yun or the one of Big mountain, He has been so much fun to watch him grow and how
the mother takes care of him. Will this be her last cub?
Moderator’s note: We don’t know.
I think he is an adorable panda cub! He’s just super cute, & will be a super strong handsome adult panda. Therefore, he shall be named Li Lianjie, after my favorite Chinese actor, Li Lianjie, otherwise known as Jet Li. I hope you consider this as a potential name! Hugs to baby (hopefully so named) Li Lianjie!!
Darn it!! I’m not going to get to SD until Oct. 23!! So will have to join the others in submitting online. What fun!!!
Thank you- this should be fun!
#40-Elca-Is baobei Chinese? I tried looking it up on the webpage offered by #35 Fallbrook for a translation and it didn’t translate. I know you said it means “treasure” and that is great but is it Chinese?
Does anyone know if it is o.k. to have a three part name as long as the individual parts are short? Everyone is coming up with good suggestions and I do like the idea of trying to use Bai or Yun as part of his name to honor his beautiful mommy.
#65-Simply Sandy-Love your idea. “Adorable, huggable one” certainly fits him. But then I think of him grown, and I love “Xin Zhu” suggested by #49-let meaning “nobility of love”. Then I go back to wanting to honor Bai Yun by using part of her name. Goodness, this is not going to be easy!!! And I haven’t even tried to come up with one of my own yet.
Since I am a new pandaholic, I want to thank the experienced pandafans. Along with the Panda Team and our wonderful moderator, you sharing past experiences enriches this experience.
Well, I should still be sleeping, so goodbye for now. Hugs and kisses to Bai and Baby Boy!
The naming day is after my 2 day visit on the day I fly out of San Diego. I am sad on one hand but hope that means Panda Canyon won’t be too busy on the days I come to visit and I won’t have to queue too long too see the girls on exhibit and Bai and Cubbie on screen. I will find an internet cafe in Vegas to check what our cuties name is.
P. Wong – What does Gao Sheng or Gao Bai or Gao Yun mean in English?
Anyone know when we will get our next fix on the exam schedule? Not wanting to be mean.. but he just sounds so cute… my two dogs even come running now when they hear him on the computer at home. I never knew they were so loud! But seriously when is his next exam? We need a fix of the up close and personal pictures! Don’t you need to look at his teeth or something… anything??? PLEASE!!!
Moderator’s note: The cub is scheduled for an exam this week.
Just curious. I know the tradition is to receive his/her name on the 100th day, but you mention in your blog message that the ceremony won’t be held until he is 104 days old. Is there a reason why he cannot receive his name on his 100th day ‘birthday’?
Moderator’s note: We’re superstitious! 100 days falls on Friday the 13th. But seriously, it’s just the best day for the parties involved.
Since his mother took him out so young at night, I think Bright Star or Star Bright. When his Chinese panda pals ask him about his name, he can tell them about his camping adventures when he was a wee lad.
Sharon #28 amazing you remember all the choices for Tai Shan. I zeroed in on this name which seemed so perfect for him so glad to see what the other choices actually were. I believe all the names submited for the NZ’s baby panda were submited by the Chinese. Over 200,000 people voted from around the world with Tai Shan getting approx 44% of the vote. The NZ has also had public voting to name both of their baby anteaters Aurora and Cyrano and the newest little girl gorilla Kibbi. I can’t remember if Su Lin’s name choices came from the just the Chinese also. Mei Lan may have been the first time the public was given input for names to be on the list seeing how popular picking and chosing names for these roly poly precious angels is. Does anyone remember which baby it was were panda fans were given the opportunity to submit names which had to be approved by the officials. I like the name Gao Yun (Big Cloud?) honoring both his wonderful parents for this new sweetie pie.
Moderator’s note: Check out our post Help Us Name the Baby Panda for some naming history.
My goodness Bai has had a very busy morning 5:- 6:30 am. SDZ time. Now that he is bigger she really does play alot with him. He got a really good workout this am. But something I noticed that I never saw Bai do before. She started to fluff up the bedding then I think she decided it needed a bit more than a fluff and started her tossing about with the bambo. But then she stopped. She pushed our little guy in a corner and piled some bedding under him and neatly tucked. It raised him off the floor a few inches. It looked like a little couch. Then she went back to continue vigorous cleaning session. She made him safe so he was out of the way while she had a cleaning freenzy. Then scooped him up for more play. Always a smile to be had. Fallbrook # 35 thank you for the translation site. I couldn’t find just the right one. Yours was. Everyone has given some great names. Though I do favor the one given “Gao Yun” after mother and father. One I thought of was “ping jun” meaning to share. My thoughts were China shares their Pandas with the U.S. SDZ shares with us and the moderators shares with us and we share with each other. Alot of sharing! Everyone, have a Panda good day.
i thik has naem sod be zan zan
pootie is what its name
I wish he was a little girl because I would suggest that for a girl either Lin Lin (after one of my friends) or Jing Jing (which means Crystal). I’m not to sure a name for the most adorable little panda that I have ever seen. I guess his should be Goa Shan for Big Mountain because he is going to be a big boy when he grows up. Thank you. One day I hope I could work with pandas when I grow up.
I’m so excited that the online community gets to participate in this! One of the names I was considering submitting has already been mentioned here, but I’m going to work on a few others to submit. For those of you looking for possibilities, there are a number of baby name sites online that have Chinese names. Does the person that suggests the winning name get a prize? Like a free trip to the naming ceremony? An autographed photo of the cub? A lifetime supply of panda poo paper?
just another devoted follower of our precious baby Panda and so desrving of the “perfect name”, so until his name is officially established, I refer to him as YinYang.
That Bai Yun is one lucky “person!” She gets to hold and cuddle and play with chubby cubby anytime she wants to!!
I think i have the perfect name for the baby panda….. SANDA , Our san diego panda. This name means free fighter in Chinese.
Thanks, Ryan Camren
I will try to be THERE on Nov. 17 I can’t wait…
OK, gang, I’ve found a terrific website for English to Chinese word translation. It is http://www.mandarinbook.info. Click on Chinese-English dictionary and enter any word you please in the “Search” bar. I found words for just about every name you all have given our little cutie. I even found “tank” for Lynda in Torrance #21! It’s “Tan ke”. Go for it and have a ball!
We are getting to watch all the panda’s today… I have a question has anyone noticed that ZZ is no longer black and WHITE she is now more of a black and BROWN… Is she playing in the mud? Is this normal? The other pandas don’t look like they have been rolling in it. Could it just be that she is younger…. and has not learned that mud looks fun but makes your fur sticky!? Anyone have a hose over there?
I think since he is the first son…first boy…#1 boy…Beginning Boy…Boys R Dads.
Moderator’s note: The cub is Bai Yun and Gao Gao’s second boy; Mei Sheng is their first son.
“Bai Xue”=means to “white snow”. That words based on the name of his mother whose name is “Bai Yun” . Bai Yun means to “white cloud”.
Dear Moderator,
I apologize for straying from all the excitement about naming the baby, but this is the only place I know to go to ask any questions. Today was the first opportunity I had to watch some of the other pandas on live cam. After watching Zhen Zhen eat for a little while, she walked over to where there is a large rock with a tree bent over it. It looked like she was going to climb, but she stopped and hugged one “peak” of the rock, licking it and nuzzling it, rubbing her face all over it. She continued doing this for some time. It looked as though she picked up a scent that she wanted to be real close to and it seemed a little intense if it was just where food had been placed on a previous occasion. Any idea? Is it at all possible that another panda was ever on that rock in the past, like Bai Yun or someone? Do you rotate living areas among the pandas? Sorry for so many questions, but I am TOTALLY fascinated by our beautiful pandas since I learned of the pandacam soon after cubbie’s birth. Thanks AGAIN or all the time and effort you give to share your knowledge with all of us pandafans. Consider yourself hugged along with Bai Yun and our beautiful baby boy.
Moderator’s note: The keepers often smear different scents on rocks and logs for the pandas to investigate. I’ll see if I can found out what was done today.
Fallbrook(#35), just read your comment. Thanks for the website for translations. I will put that to use alot to find a good name for chubby cubby!
Was just on the pandacam and watched ZZ enjoying her breakfast boo.
A little bit short today because I gotta get going to my doctor appointment. Will be back on her when I get back!
Chari Mercier
St. Pete, FL
Thanks for that link. Carol #89.
I’m still very fond of Gao Yun, to honor both panda parents, but it will be great to see the other choices.
When I signed off on post #89, I said “Have a ball”. As soon as I submitted it, I realized I should have added the Mandarin word for “ball” (as in fun,good time, etc.) So now I have, and it is “wu hui”. Seriously??? Woohoo-y???? Anyway, have a wu hui searching for just the right name, and when you find it, shout WOOHOO! I have found mine. WOOHOO!
oh hows about “gao yuan yuan” or” big roly poly”
i think quich Rolly-Polly it be nice
I have been laughing for hours now, after I asked my husband for a name for the Little Cutie, and he came up with ‘Happy Barrel’. Don’t even ask!!!
I think that beautiful boy should be called “Shaiming”, which in Chinese means “Life of Sunshine”. Now hasn’t he already brought Sunshine into the lives of all of us viewing the Panda Cam? Thank you, San Diego Zoo for offering us the chance to witness this miracle of life!
I can’t make it to the zoo, but my suggestion is “JUNJIE” meaning ” HANDSOME AND OUTSTANDING”
I got one more suggestion, its “BINGWEN” meaning “BRIGHT AND CULTIVATED”
Mr. Cubbie can have two names, his given name, and a nickname! Some examples: Our nickname for Tai Shan in Washington DC is “da Sooperpanna!”; Mei Lan is Atlanta is “Thnerkie” (for her SNERK! bark during an exam) or “Lani”; her younger brother Xi Lan is “da X-Man”. In San Diego Miss Zhen Zhen is “Zoom Zoom”, or “Zoomie”. I’m sure there were popular nicknames for Mei Sheng and Su Lin also, but i’m having a mental block.
The bottom line is it doesn’t matter what you choose to call them, as long as you enjoy and cherish them
I suggest Xin Gao ( Big Heart ?) .
#78 Terry – this was one of the suggestions for ZZ but it also translates as celebrity which the keepers and the Chinese didn’t like as all of the pandas are celebrities.
#80 Brandy – I like that sentiment “to share” is great for him but when I looked it up Ping Jun meant “average” something he isn’t! and Gong Xiang was given for “to share”
I would like to see him named for his parents Gao Yun, or to have Yuan with the character that means “bamboo with black patches” or the charater that means “hope”.
When I look at him I call him “the chubster” I would give anything to hold that cute rascal!!
Will we be allowed to make more than one suggestion for the name?
Moderator’s note: Yes, but one at a time, not all at once!
Ive been watching this little boy every day, I keep it logged in all day long and go check it often to see how he’s doing, what a great Mom she is. I think the little ones name should be Baobei, it means precious one in Chinese, he’s such a precious one, I know he’s a bear but he looks so cuddly, love him….
well then names like yōngbào (which means hug) or xiǎoxuǎnshǒu (Which means roughly little slugger) are possiblities thouggh i think something like Didi which means little brother would also be cute
I’m not sure what name I’d recommend but I do like the tradition of giving animals names from their homelands’ languages. Naming the newest elephant the Si Swati counterpart of Horton, Ingadze, instead of just naming him Horton, was cool. Also, Woodland Park Zoo in Seattle named Hadiah the Sumatran tiger cub by picking some baby girl names popular in Sumatra and having a web vote (Hadiah is an Arabic name too, but a lot of Indonesians are Muslim and some give Arabic names to their kids).
Now I wonder what language people usually speak around where Bai Yun and Gao Gao were born – Mandarin, Cantonese, or one of the other Chinese spoken languages (which have a written language in common and can do that because the writing isn’t very phonetic)?
Thanks Celfy for the correction. I have no idea what I was looking at. But good to know before I entered it.
i think its name should be ying yang like black&white eather that or baby boy in chinese also i would like to say hi to my teacher mrs.kron who shoud our class this website it is awsome mrs.kron hi friends!Any way yah it sould be one of thoughs or su lin cause were reading year of the panda and thats the baby pandas name!THX angela
I suggest the name, MING MING! The word, Ming has many meanings. Some meanings include to understand, to be obvious, and BRIGHT. The day I found out that a new panda cub was born, I was having one of the crummiest and most frustrating days at work until I clicked onto the panda cam and saw the little precious cub in Bai Yun’s arms. My day lit up and all the frustration died down cause all I could do was look at the sleeping panda cub and smile =)
I click onto the panda cam every morning before going to work. Bai Yun and panda cub have been the first to greet me “good morning” every morning for the past 2 months. They put a big smile on my face and gives me a bright start to every day even if it’s gloomy and pouring rain outside.
So I think the name, Ming Ming is perfect for this little panda cub. I’m sure the little guy has brightened up gloomy days for many panda cam viewers out there. =D
I think that Qiang Zhen might be good. Meaning strong precious in Chinese, and that’s what panda will be – strong, and precious, especially in the cuteness!!! VOTE FOR QIANG ZHEN Oct. 10!!!!!!
i think a nice name would be teddybear!!!! =D
i luv that name!!!
awwwwww.. he’s so cute
congratz!!!!!!!!
to the mom!!!
or gongo (just made that up)
Ming ming!!! its a wonderful name! Julie G. burnaby, Bc suggested that name; and i think its splendid!
Thank you Panda Annie! =) Ming Ming just seems perfect for the little guy. It brightens up my day a little every time I see his precious face ^____^
how about “Yasuo” meaning Peaceful one –
“Bai Xue” , I like it! I beleive the name should be succeeded from his parents. I agree with ikupoo!
What about Mai Xing or Mei Xing
Mai = mountain range
Mei = reflecting his oldest sister and older brother meaning USA or beautiful (or other meanings depending on the character used including “to charm”
Xing has a lot of meanings including “tranquil” “flourish/ become popular” “molasses” “fortunate/lucky” and “star”
I will be looking forward to voting on a name what ever it my be. I have been watching his sister grow for
the last 2 years and have enjoyed very much. The only live Pandas I have seen was in Bush Gardens many
years ago, they were here for a short time and than sent back to China.
What a BEAUTIFUL sentiment. 100-Melissa’s suggestion of Shaiming or “Life of Sunshine” is definitely one of my favorites. He and his sweet mom definitely put sunshine in my life. I also like Baobei which someone said means “precious one”. And then I still would love to see Bai Yun honored by somehow incorporating her name. This is NOT going to be easy.
Dear Panda Team
I read your posting about the sisters, and I want to thank you and the people watching the pandas for paying such close attention to ALL the details. It would be a horrible tragedy if something that started out as happy enrichment turned out with little Zhen Zhen getting hurt. Although I am a bit partial to our new baby boy since I’ve been watching him since soon after his birth, I’ve seen past and present pictures and videos of ZZ and she is a little cutie herself. It was obvious when she met her sister at the howdy gate the first time that she wanted to be best friends. I sat watching wishing I could reach thru the computer and rub her belly that she kept offering to Su Lin. Thanks again for your untiring devotion to our beautiful pandas.
I think the name “Xi Yang” would be nice as he might be bai yun’s last cub and he is a little sunshine that bring happiness to people all around the world, just like the sun.
Xi-happy/end
Yang-sun
I have the zoo cam on my iGoogle homepage and love checking in through out the day to see mommy and cub. My Grandfather gave me the nickname Andy Panda when I was a little girl and I fell in love with anything panda. Thanks for having this available to watch in amazement the interaction between mother and cub and how he has grown. I live in Portland OR we have a great zoo but no pandas
I like the suggested names they all have good meanings especially Xi Yang.
#101-Sarah-good taste! That’s the name I’ve been looking at.
I think since they want like a japineese name may peipai pernounced pay-pay or maybe Chichi. Lang lang too.
I think ming ming is a FANTABULOUS name!!!!!!!!
how do i find out the translation to some of the names?
Moderator’s note: Check through the comments here and you’ll find others have suggested some Web sites to help you.
Here are some chinese names with there translation:
Wei- Powerful, mighty
Shu- Kind, gentle
Ming- Bright, shining
Gang- Strong
Haun- Happy
Hui- Wise
I like the name “Ming Ming” or “Ming Yang” which means Shining/bright sun. ;-D
Ming yang would be a fabulous name!! Ming is bright and shinging and yang is sun. So it means shining sun
ROLLY POLLY IS A AWESOME NAME FOR THE LITTLE GUY!
The name for him should be tianshi……. it means angel and we need more angels in society today
I think i have the perfect name for the baby panda is Hannibal very Strong Name.
Hey. I think the baby pandas name should be “Pa-Sa-Di”
Regrets, Trine Rahbek
He looks like a Max…
Tho i doubt that the zoo will use that name for a panda hehe
Call him Teddy. It’s perfect for him.
I have recently given birth to my litlle babyboy called Laurits.
Laurits loves pandas, and has a lot of stuffed pandas. It would therefore be the perfect one-year old birthday gift if you could name the panda Laurits
Sincerely
Louise, Rune and Laurits from Denmark
Je Er Sun might be better. It means Son of the sun.
MIN – WU for that precious little baby boy. Means “Heaven’s Gift”
I would like to suggest “qián tú” which is Chinese for “outlook for the future”. He is the most adorable little fellow but he symbolizes so much for the Panda Future…
I think it is only fitting that baby panda should be named after his mommy and daddy. It sounds like Bai Yun will be heading back to China soon, so I would like to name him “Gao Yun”
(Big Cloud). Obviously our baby is going to grow up to be a “big guy”.
Moderator’s note: It is Su Lin, not Bai Yun, who will be going to China.
Does anyone like the name ming yang? It means shining sun!
I like the neams Huizhong-it means wise and loyal, Huiliang-it means kind and good , jia- it means beautiful, huian- it means kind an peace, jin panda-it golld giallid
I just thought of another name for him. Gao Bin so that he literally has a part of his parents with him at all times. My dream is to work with pandas when I got older. I think that they are the cutest yet sweetest animals in the world. Thank you again for letting me help suggest names for him. I wish I could be there when he is named.
feel like named him POPO !! thats it (^_^)
Please name the baby OREO.
Thank you
My suggestion…..WON TON !!!!!!
W.T. is authentic Chinese, exotic, SOUP….everyone’s favorite !!!
make the name kona
May I suggest the name Stephen Col-BEAR ?!
I think it should be named Qiu Yun meaning Autumn cloud in chinese
I am Robin from the Anza Inn in Torrance, Ca.My suggestion is “Cha Ching”!!!!!
My suggestion is Bamboo!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
The panda is so cute and me and my sister agree he should be named Zoldar… How can I buy a panda lol..
I like the name ming yang which means shining sun
My vote is BOO!
I’d like to name the little Panda: Kuainan – meaning SuperBoy.
As a Zoological Society Member, I am suggesting a great name-Jack Sparrow. The baby seems to have the same smeared eyeliner as Johnny Depp did in the “Pirates” films.
Let me know what you think.
I think Gao Yun is perfect but I will always think of him as Ping Pong for the way Bai handles him!!
It’s the 10th and finally we can submit our names officially!
I was considering what this little fuzz-ball symbolizes- what the pandacam and panda program is all about, and just what roll he will play in the grand scheme of it all.
So, with all of this in mind, my official suggestion would be:
Shouheng Renshi Chushu – and just “Renshi” for short.
Translation…
Conservation Awareness Ambassador.
(I am unclear if the order of the words are correct, or if it would be more properly said by putting ‘ambassador’ first. Either way – I think this name would cover it all!)
Thanks for the opportunity to participate!
My mother would like to submit the name:
ZAI ZAO – to give a new lease of life / to reconstruct / to reform / to rework / to recycle / to reproduce (copies, or offspring) / restoration / restructuring
that’s the online dictionary’s definition… and ALL of that is what this little guy is about – a new lease on life and the future… restoring and restructuring.
Way to go, Mom! (sure wish I coulda thought up MY suggestion that quickly…. I spent an hour looking for words, and she casually suggests ZAI ZAO like it’s a no-brainer…)
This panda looks so snugly and super cute! I have to suggest the name:
Shu Xi Yue
That’s the obvious answer. It means “Bundle of Joy” in Chinese.
I hope my suggestion wins! Looking forward to our visit to the zoo next weekend.
I like Zidi the English definition is – the younger generation
my suggestion is Dasi – means Ambassador
I like Zidi -the younger generation
I nominate Gao Shan, or Gao Yun. These names are the best, having hem named after his father would be good. Or perhaps Tian Yun would be good, or Zhen Lin. There are so many names to name him!!!
Let’s name the cub “Gung Hay Fat Choy” because everyone loves a New Year’s baby (even if not born during Chinese New Year’s…).
Hi, I still think it should be Guin Guin meaning (Strong and Round in Chinese) also u could call Him GG, just like ZZ :=) just a thought. Thank you for all the posting on how Guin Guin and his Mom are doing :=). Have a good day.
I’d like to name this cute little cub as “You You” (pronounced as Yo Yo,) meaning “friend” in Chinese. This name will bring love and harmony to the cub’s family as well as the world we share. Love You!
*welcoming the starrrrrr*****shu xi yue !!!! hi im a ten year old and I think YOU should vote shu xi yue because it means bundle of joy!!!
Lots of people have suggested “Roly Poly”. One translation would be “Yuan Yuan”, but that’s typically a girl’s name. A masculine alternative is “Du Du”, pronounced like “doo doo”. In Chinese, “pang du du” is a cute and affectionate way of saying chubby or roly-poly. I think “Du Du” would also be good because it pays homage to the second character (syllable) in Chengdu, which is the capital city of Sichuan, the province where pandas originate.
i’d like to name the cub Scooby! He is so cute!
My suggestion: Zhu-ting, Of Great Importance
Please call it Dieago!
Ping-a-Ling
cute and fitting!
i thought there was supposed to be a link for submitting names? anyone know about that??
Moderator’s note: I don’t believe it is available yet.
There is no real word for chubby in Chinese. However, if someone is more round, or heavier than normal, it is considered that they have much abundance and prosperity in their life, and so it is viewed as a good thing.
With that in mind I toyed and toyed with names, and came up with two. Can’t really decide between them, but am probably leaning towards the first one because of the metaphor inherent in the name.
First Choice: Péng Péng – means, luxuriant, abundant, booming sound of wind.
Since Mr. Chubbs will no doubt be quite large when grows up fully, he will be like the mighty wind!
Second Choice: Língcháng – - long life and prosperity!
As Spock would say, Live Long and Prosper!
I call the baby “Love Bucket”- Ai Tong in Chinese
I think the cubs name should be Manchu Wang it means pure hope or wish
I think thats a perfect name because every baby and child are pure and stirght from heaven
and every parent panda wishes and hopes for such a cute little fuzzy, cuddly ball of black and white joy
please think about the name
The name I came up with is Le-Le which means joy and happiness. Everybody likes a happy panda!
How about “Tuan Yuan”? It means to unite, to be together with the family, or one day with all the pandas in the world.
“PAPOO” is what may 17mo old daughter named the cub. Panda in toddler language
wow thanks Panda team ! as you can tell people all over the world love your/our pandas.. cant wait to help name him….you have a great job !! i get over there once a year….so soon i will see the baby…maybe when he starts walking!!!! cant wait….
Ii would like to enter a name(s) for the Panda Cub…
I have several entries…all of which I love….
What is the Link to enter the contest?
Thank you…
Suzie Wolkoff
Moderator’s note: The link does not appear to be posted yet. It will probably be available on Monday.
I think the cutie should be named Hoover. It is a really cute name!
Junjie “handsome & outstanding” or
zihao “son heroic”
Where can we go to suggest a name?
My suggestion in Chinese, spelled in English phonetically is:
Mm Kay Jick.
This means “5th Miracle,” which this boy really is, seeing that Bai Yun has had 5 healthy and beautiful Panda cubs!
I think he should be named ” Ma Fan’ ” which means trouble because baby’s are trouble
I’ve been waiting for the official submission link to appear, but I guess it’s not working yet and I’m tired of waiting! My name suggestion is gui shan (gway-shun) roughly translates to “return to the mountain”, such is his destiny!
I think the cub’s name should be “Bolero”, because he looks like he’s wearing a bolero (cloth)…
Duan Da Yi (short coat)
Domino comes to mind. Is there a Chinese equivalent? What about Mah Jongg?
Waiting for the link to name this amazing Panda Cub that has brought all of us so much pleasure….
Thank you…
Suzie Wolkoff
After watching this big strong guy grow into a great fellow I did my research and came up with a name in Chinese that I would like to offer up and suggest as his name.
LAOZI – it translates to “Venerable Master.” It has a great story behind it in Chinese history and I found it fascinating to learn about. I believe he will indeed become this Master of our “Hearts.”
Gao Yun “Big Cloud” in honor of mom and dad- Bai Yun (White Cloud) and Gao Gao (Big Big). Bai Yun is SUCH a good mother!
Hi, can u please tell us when and how we can start naming the cub online? where is the official naming page? Thank u!!
Moderator’s note: Check the Panda Cam page on Monday for the cub naming link.
Thank you to SDZ for giving us fans from far away an opportunity to participate in the naming process.
I think Baby’s name should be “Mei Li” mei-cub born in US;Li means “power”.
Moderator’s note: Your welcome! Be sure to make your name suggestion official by submitting it here.
#101, Sarah- I was going to suggest Junjie also-handsome and outstanding only I wanted to add “son” to it, but can’t find translation for “son.” Handsome and outstanding son. Good taste, Sarah!
Anyone know the Chinese word for son?
胡佛 Hoover pronounced Who Fo
I’m an early childhood teacher in Australia. The children think the following names are great for the panda.
Panda Boo
Dot Bot
Purple
Gargar
Sharnae
Daddy
Teddy Bear
Kangeroo pouch
Chippy
Jumping pouch
its sooooo sooooooo hard but i think you should name the panda SOBIESLAWA meaning(polish feminine)
Pao Pei. – Precious, adorable, cute… Isn’t this what everyone thinks of when looking at this adorable, precious, cute pandas..
panda cub are soooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo cute.
We think the name should be Pepelepju
Pepe Le Pew!!
i keep trying to submit my name idea, however, im not sure if its actually posting it, its not giving verification of a sucessful submition..
help?
Moderator’s note: It should give you verification. If not, send your suggestion in a comment and I’ll submit it for you.
Shu Fang. Translates to kind, gentle, sweet.
I tried the translation website, but it spelled everything in Chinese, so I don’t if the name sounds cute in Chinese! But, maybe somone knows, I like Puff Puff, because he’s round and adorably puffy! Or The Golden One for being born in the Golden State! The Golden One has to sound cute in Chinese, right?
I think it should be named Qiu Yun meaning Autumn cloud in chinese :3
Yong chi, translated as courage,bravery or valor. In honor of those in the San diego area who have served or are presently serving our country allowing us the freedom to enjoy peaceful days at the Zoo.
the name “wu fu” meaning :five blessings-wealth,health,love of virtue,longevity,lucky star,also the new born panda is fifth kids. it’s wonderful land at zoo
This Panda has such beautiful eyes…”Bright Eyes” unknown the chinese translation…
ROLLENPANDA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
BEBI
Baby Pandas are sooooo adorable. I want her name to be “Cherry” or “Candy”.
i love the name boo! since it is around halloween it would be perfect!
I have come up with an adorable name for your new baby Panda. How about Chopstix?
I say you call him simon =)
Or hockey puck !!!!!!!!!!!!
How about boo boo
Faith or Hope because these are cute names and the baby panda is cute.
The baby panda was born on the same day as my first grandchild, Kailey Hannelore. I have been waiting to hear what they will name the baby panda. One day when Kailey is older I will tell her about the baby panda and her sharing the same birth day.
Moderator’s note: Congratulations on your first grandchild!
it should be fizzy or pepper maybe even cherry i totaly agree with Kaela Heap she gots good taste
wiggles is what my 8 year old son suggests
I think it should be named ,IF IT’S A GIRL name it Zoey if it’s a boy name it Noodles
You should totally name him Bamboo
HI THE PANDA TEAM I WAS JUST READING ALL THE LETTER S THAT PEOPLE WERE WRITING I THOUGHT OF A NAME FOR THE LITTLE PADA WHAT ABOUT MEILAN.
HEY THE LAST PART I MENT PANDA WE SHOULD CALL HIM MEIL;AN CAUSE MY THEACHER LINDA MORRIS SAID THAT U HAD ANOTHER PANDA CALLED MEILAN
.
How about Tobey
You should name the Baby panda Choshi it means Playful