For those of you who have actually seen the pandas in person when they first start to climb, you know how they can take some trees without difficulty, and some are a little more challenging. Each cub born at the San Diego Zoo has gone through ups and downs when it comes to climbing trees, literally. A cub’s first teacher is, of course, Mom, and here we have Bai Yun. There is a reason her name translates to “white cloud”: she is an excellent climber, and as a young cub she would spend most of her time up the trees.
When cubs leave the den they begin climbing trees, and they spend a majority of their day up in a tree. Females leave the cubs in the top of the trees while they forage for bamboo. Staying up at the top of a tree on the thinner branches allows a cub some safety from large cats that may take advantage of Mom being away from her cub. Staying up above most of the branches keeps the cub up and hopefully out of the ranges of others.
Those thin branches can really only hold the cub, and if anything else gets on the branch they may go tumbling down. Young cubs can fall without getting hurt. The growing cubs still have a good layer of fat, and about 3 inches (8 centimeters) of fur, allowing the cub to safely land.
As our panda youngsters get older, they turn the trees into their own playground, jungle gym, and demolition zone. Su Lin is very good at tearing down the branches of the elm tree in her exhibit and loves to play as high as she can in the trees. Zhen Zhen is currently at the stage where pretty much all she wants to do in the trees is sleep. Not too exciting right now, but as she gets older she will go through the same stage that her sister is in right now, and I’m sure we will see that fun, exciting behavior.
The other day, I was asked when was the last time Bai Yun climbed a tree, and why doesn’t she climb that much? For our regulars, I’m sure that’s an easy question for you to answer, but it did make me think about the last time I saw her climb. The elm trees in the front exhibits aren’t exactly the big sturdy trees that hold a 220-pound (100-kilogram) bear like Bai Yun, but in the “classroom,” our exhibit behind the scenes, she does have a bigger tree. The last time I saw her climb, she was pregnant with our current cub, Yun Zi; she had climbed halfway up the tree, found a comfortable spot where she hung her head on a branch, and went to sleep. The only times I’ve ever really seen her climb high up into the tree have been when she’s been upset by a loud sound.
The next time you visit the San Diego Zoo, check out the trees in the enclosures and try to see where the bears have been.
Anastasia Horning is a panda narrator at the San Diego Zoo.
Watch video (below) of Zhen Zhen climbing a tree on November 17, 2009. Provided by panda fan Bobbie Wood.
The only time we ever saw the pandas in person, Su Lin was in the tree all the time, while Bai Yun slept nearby with her back turned to the tourists. When we went to the restaurant for lunch, we were delighted to be able to look down and see Su Lin, far below, right where we had seen her from a completely different angle earlier.
well we all know as ya get older its not as easy to climb or squat or walk or—– you get it::))
Thanks Anastasia – another beautiful story. You keep me intrigued every day. I have a question – when the pandas have training do they respond to verbal cues, hand signals or whistles / if it is verbal is it in English or Chinese – in other words are your pandas bilingual for when they return to China???
Moderator’s note: They do need to learn new words/cues, etc. at their new home, but they catch on quickly.
What a precious mental image of our girls climbing their trees; Su for gymnastics, Zhennie for napping. I remember watching Tai in D.C. play in his trees. He’d hang from his heels and often I would wonder how we would stay put…panda velcro, maybe? I would say that I can’t wait till our Yun Zi is climbing trees but that will come soon enough…we still have much to look forward to before he’s progressed to that!
Its not the 19th, its the 18th!
Moderator’s note: The date is correct on the blog post itself. We have not determined why it shows the incorrect date on the Panda Cam page listing.
Lol, I’ll never forget the climbing phases the cubs went through! Zhen used to basically be a squirrel in those trees, she never came down! And Su Lin, oh… she needed to go top counseling for a tree climbing addiction!
Hope Yun Zi (How is that pronounced? jun – zee?) does good when he’s out on exhibit, I saw Zhen when she was just over a year and she looked great
Just saw the naming video (Cute!) and I heard the pronounciation is yoon – ze
Su lin not go back China, just send one male panda here to marry Sulin, In Japan, MeiMei’s daughter not go home.
Can pandas see colors? I keep thinking Yun Zi needs some stimulation to get moving. His world is so gray.
Thank you for the very interesting info, Anastasia. So, instinctively, do panda’s climb trees because it is for safety reasons, in the wild? And though our SDZ pandas are safe, they still have the need to climb, therefore, they are up in the trees, sleeping, playing, lounging? I have been really curious as to whatever happened to that black and white checkered lounging thing that Zhennie would rest and sleep in? Is it still up there in the trees? I hardly see my girl anymore, so maybe I just miss when she’s up there. Please let me know?
Love you so much, Zhennie.
/kat
Is there a problem with the video of the ceremony? My video gets to the Chairman of the Zoo speaking and then it freezes. It did it yesterday too. Am I the only one with some issues viewing the entire video?
Moderator’s note: I haven’t heard of others having a problem with it. Sorry!
I hope Yun Zi will like to climb…. Zhen loved acrobatics, but now she has decided to nap. (Probably a little bit too much bamboo.)
Awwww, I love that update. Thank you, Anastasia. Many a time, I’ve watched cubs starting with Tai climb high in a tree while I held my breath.
I’ve watched Lin Ping the last couple of nights. It’s very curious to me — the “training” taking place. The keepers have been trying to teach her how to go down a child’s plastic slide. All the while, there are many enrichment toys in the cage. It reminds me of a little kid on Christmas morning, with too many presents unwrapped and surrounding them. And they would rather play with a bow. Lin Ping likes the wicker basket; not the slide, rocking horse, balls, pony, tug-a-war toy, etc. And last night they kept putting her in her bed with boo. She is an absolute doll; very sweet, as is her mother. But it “different” watching the training there from the training in the US. Her keepers adore her. I split the screen with His Royal Cuteness and Lin Ping so I don’t miss anything.
Is there a way I could buy a photo from the Naming Celebration? I wish I could have been there but am hoping to come when he is older and visible.
Has he been successful yet at getting out of the nest? When will he be able to sit up alone? Sometimes it looks like has and then fallen forward.
Thanks so much
I agree with you Anastasia,as the first time we visited Su Lin was more tree frog then Panda…While her older Brother Mei Sheng was more bat as he hung upside down from his climbing structure….ZZ also seems to be tree frog like her siblings and I actually saw Bai Yun in her enclosure the other day via video with her head and front legs hanging off of her platform defying gravity….My wife thinks when I’ve described how active Yun Zi is she agreed that he too will become a tree froh as well as it is in his genes….. Only time will tell as his royal highness Prince Yun Zi makes gis debut…..I only wonder if he’ll catch on faster than Lin Lin that when the keepers pot out treats for him he better come down when he starts eating solid food or Mom will eat his treats as well as his……LOL….We were amazed how Lin Lin stayed on some of those thin branches when she started packing on the pounds maybe Pandas have Gekko Feet as well as webbed rear feet…LOL….Keep us informed as the first thing Lynn asks from her Hospital bed everyday is what’s new with the Pandas as only a true Pandaholic would do,as she claims it helps her deal with her Degenerative Bone Joint Disease…….Again Thanks to all of you at SDZ abd the Pandaholics for their concern and well wishes……As soon as Lynn is able to travel after she gets released we will visit …..Also ask the Moderator if it’s possible to post the gift picture from the naming ceremoney as it would really make Lynn’s day if I could print her a copy as a get well card…
You know what is the most impressive thing the Pandas do that I truly LOVE!!?? when they curl up and tumble down a hill or just curl and do tumbeling!! Thanks Anastasia for the wonderful story…I know that is your “terrible twos” when they climb a tree in the evening and need to go in the den and they won’t come down!
Once I saw a film on panda cub folling down from a broken branch and I was suprised by his “landing aptitude” – he has not get hurt ! Now I understand better – some fat and 8 cm fur !
Kind regards to all Panda Lovers
It’s fun to learn more about the pandas. Thanks Anastasia!
I ran across a picture of Mei Sheng’s first romantic rendezvous. The Adelaide Zoo has a giant panda blog and one of their panda people was in China at the time. Here is a link to the pertinent blog entry and accompanying picture:
http://www.giantpanda.org.au/index.php/blog/23-giant-panda-trip-8th-may-2009.html
(The Adelaide Zoo has a separate site for their pandas, giantpanda.org.)
awesome!
:-B :-I
Aghhh – tree climbing
We made a special trip from Michigan to see Su Lin – 3 times in line it finally donned on us if we sat on the bench outside the panda exhibit we had a great view of Su Lin high in her tree. 
Momma was sleeping but on my last pass through the panda exhibit pappa Gao decided to run around his exhibit – seeing a panda doing something other than eating bamboo or sleeping was a thrill 
I have only seen the two youngest girl bears also, I can hardly wait to see Gao Gao and Bai Yun in person, if you let them out one on each side, I will probably start to cry, because I feel like I know them just from blog land.
Love this post
It makes me so happy to think of the bears doing what comes naturally… how lovely to think of a cub, safely napping amidst the branches. Thank you.
You all are so wonderful about giving us information. We do always want more! And thanks for explaining about the cubs not getting hurt when they fall. I always hold my breath when they tumble. But they never even seem dazed! Just get up and climb WAY up again!
I saw Bai Yun in a the tree in the classroom in Feb. of last year. She was sleeping with ZZ I thought it was great. Keep the great job going love to read the blogs.
Thanks for the interesting information Anastasia,
When I was at the zoo in July, I don’t know which panda I was looking at, but she was in a tree then came down and sat like a human with her back against a rock and begain to eat. I know that it was a she because Gao Gao was in the other area asleep. Lazy boy hee hee.
Do pandas only eat in a setting position, if so why is that? I’m new at being a panda fan so I don’t know alot about these beautiful animals. It is all Yun Zi’s fault. I love every minute off it and want to learn as much as I can.
Thanks again for the info.
THE PANDA FAN OXOXO
ITs about 8:45 and for about several minutes we are watching a play bite play boxing match FOR REAL I think Bai like to bite his tale and feet and Yun Zi like to box mommy’s nose…fun fun
Thank you Anastasia again for a good blog!
Looking at Bai Yun and Yun Zi interacting with each other, I feel a female panda’s life seems to be more ‘fulfilling’. She dedicates herself to taking care of each cub for at least for 1.5 years. So through out her life, ( like Bai Yun) more than half of time she’s with a cub, which means she has a companion most of her life. While male pandas may only get to have a companion at the first 2 years of their lives. Maybe that’s why male cubs tend to spend longer time with their moms before they are weaned ?! Just a thought. Well, that’s what I do sometimes, sitting around wondering what these bears are thinking (if they ‘think’ at all!!) and how they are feeling in the present moment
I guess time is near to wrap those trees with slippery metal for Yun Zi!
I’ve been watching the Panda Cam several times in the evenings lately and have noticed that Bai Yun and Yun Zi have quite an extensive play time every evening around 8:30PM PST. I can’t believe how she throws him around and how he “attacks” mom’s head. They looks like they’re having so much fun. One thing I’ve noticed with his growth and the play time with Mom, he’s getting stronger and stronger. He is so close to walking on his own. Will Mom and Yun Zi be on exhibit by Christmas vacation. I’ll be down in San Diego again and would love to see them both. I predict that Yun Zi will become a tree climber extrordinaire.
Moderator’s note: We can’t promise, as it’s up to Bai Yun, but previous cubs have been out by that time.
YIPES!!!!NO VIDEO FEED, PANDAHOLICS WORLDWIDE WILL CRY UNTIL THE MEERCATS GET IT UP AND RUNNING AGAIN…..
Yun Zi, seemingly, doubles as sort of a “pillow” for Bi Yun at times. Yun Zi also plays “hide and seek” although, he’s the one always hiding or getting “covered up” and then found or “uncovered,” by Bi Yun during den cleaning! That is one clean cub too! Bi Yun doesn’t miss a beat in this department! I get dizzy just watching him get turned upside down and turn all around during his baths!…..I betcha he “bearly” stands it….. lol….
At least we can watch the video of yesterdays physicla cuteness exam and wonder about Yun Zi the 15.24 Pound 6.0 KG wonder shown during the naming ceremony…..Again for the Pandaholics that didn’t know to click on PANDA Video Gallery to see the physical with Yun Zi waving and the naming ceremoney the direct link is :
http://www.sandiegozoo.org/videos/?bcpid=4552241001&bclid=1631259758
PANDAHOLICS a wonderful obsession!!!!
I have a great picture of one of the sisters eating bamboo as we watched. It was after several minutes of everyone watching her that she seemed to have enough and just climbed in to the tree and put her back toward us in a V shaped spot. Capturing the pictures in order told the story. It was really quite amusing!
Oh the specialness of the panda species!
God in his unique creativity and mastery created a beautiful animal with a special joy that all of us can see and feel for ourselves. Black and white bears with black eye patches and saddles? Even down to a little black tail spot. Who’d a thunk it? A joyful playfulness, a good snooze, and a high treetop breeze – well, maybe a mega pile of bamboo, too. Life’s panda pleasures.
And not only pandas but for all his creation – many who are on display and cared for at the wonderful San Diego Zoo.
I’m filled with awe at being able to share in the adventure of the bears and each new cub.
From every mountaintop and every tree top, God’s creativity and care reigns! Let us be good stewards.
Thank you, SDZ, for sharing the wonder with us.
Great information! Last time we were at the zoo, several years ago, we should have had advice from (#13) Maureen! I started exploring the Adelaide Zoo site after (#18) Melissa mentioned it. I was impressed by the their Panda Parade. It is a spin-off from the the Cow Parades; the cows did come to New York and were a huge hit. They have raised over $20 million for charity.
Fiberglass cows are given to different artists and groups and celebrities to paint. I assume this includs directions on what paints to use to make them durable. The cows appear around town and then are auctioned off for charity. Some of Adelaide’s pandas have sponsors ads on them (not to my taste!). But wouldn’t it be great to have a panda project like that here in the US? Or in all the panda-host countries? Artists could decorate panda sculptures, they would tour, and then be auctioned off to support Pandas! Now, here I go, mentioning an idea that needs an organization, ongoing staff, insurance, artists’ fees (they were small), etc. But I thought, reading the blog, how amazing it would be to be walking down a tree-lined street and see a polka-dotted young panda hanging from a limb above!
Easy for me to say! Now I’m off to work. Bye, PFF! Can’t wait to get home and check in on Yunior and all of you!
Here’s a link to Adelaide’s Pandas on Parade:
http://www.giantpanda.org.au/index.php/giant-pandas/pandas-on-parade.html
As always, so much wonderful information to absorb. Have you ever thought of putting out a guide to the pandas – sort of a what to expect and watch for as each cub grows up. It would be fun to have the guide (maybe it could be spiral bound so it would lay flat on the table) next to the computer to refer to as we watch each new little one grow up.
Addendum: The first Cow Parade was in Chicago.
The first Panda Parade should be San Diegan! Pandas in the trees! Hooray!
Talking about tree climbing , there is a very funny video of Fu Long struggling in a tree branch
not to fall down , just like doing his jungle gym .
Go to youtube search for ” Panda Fu Long ” uploaded by ” ssiimmss “.
Thanks for the information about cub-climbing. It’s reassuring as Yun Zi begins to climb skyward and causes pandacam viewers to hold their breath.
#18-Melissa–Thanks for directing us to the site with the picture of Mei Sheng and his friend. I can’t believe our “little boy” is truly a man. Thank goodness for patient, older females! With such success on the first try, Mei Sheng shouldn’t have much trouble in the future. SDZ should be so proud.
I loved it when the doctor in the last exam video called YZ a “full-figured” panda. Is there any other kind at the SDZ?
Little Yun Zi looks like he is in “time out” facing the wall as he sleeps. I used to worry about the little ones climbing and falling but they never seemed to get hurt …. sooo …. I guess I should not worry. Thanks for the information.
#25 Marti, California
Check out the Panda Cam at ZA. You will find Lun eating in many positions–lying down on her back/lying down on her side, etc.!!! This is usually when she has X-Man “attacking” her and she continues to eat in whatever position she can!!
Thank you for this wonderful information about the Pandas and their tree climbing….the depth of knowledge hat you send our way is so fabulous because it increases our understanding of Panda behavior….It is all so fascinating….
Thanks again….
Thanks Anestasia. You got me remembering something that I saw when visiting a few years ago.
Mei Sheng loved going up into the trees and going out as far as he could. He did this when I was there. He would go out so far and then look down at his audience, then when we all did the “ohs” and “ahs” he would try to go out farther. The narrator at the time softly called to him to come down but he just smiled at her and went out further. The branch was bending so badly that she called the keepers and they finally enticed him down with some treats. I’m sure that same day the branches were clipped.
# 36 Page, I love the idea!! Wouldn’t that be fun to have in San Diego? Or maybe it’s something that ZA could consider to raise funds for ‘Give so they can stay’. Other cities in the US have done something similar with painted figures., West Yellowstone, WY recently raised over $165,000 by auctioning off painted Buffalo that had graced the streets of the city for several years. In the Twin Cities, (MN) characters from the Snoopy cartoon have been painted and later auctioned off. Speaking of MN, little Yun Zi made the front page of the Star Tribune yesterday. There was a picture of him and a little blurb about him receiving his name! He’s so famous!! I feel so proud to “know him” through this site!
I can’t wait for him to start climbing, there is nothing cuter than a little panda learning to climb. I remember watching Tai when he was learning to climb and it was such a delight! Also it was sooo funny when he tried so hard to climb the trees with the silver tree protectors!
# 25 Marti – welcome to the world of giant pandas and to the pandaholic family!
As far as I know from observation, giant pandas generally eat while sitting down; however, they are quite creative, so if you watch enough videos you’ll see that they can eat while lying on their backs, sitting on the ground, a rock, or any sturdy surface. You might even come across a video showing a panda eating and pooping at the same time!! Too funny!! If you go to youtube and watch the videos from the panda reserves in China, you will see several pandas in an enclosure and, often, they are munching their bamboo in several positions. When the keepers put out treats (carrots, sweet potatoes, apples, etc.) they will often leave them in several places around the enclosures. This is to mimic what happens in the wild where the pandas would normally forage (look for things to eat) through their habitat. When the pandas see these treats, they often just pick the morsels up in their mouths and eat them while continuing to walk around to find more; some sit down to enjoy their treats, especially if the keepers have left plenty for the bears to enjoy – I think the mood of the bears sometimes determines what position they assume when they eat.
The SDZ stores carry several books about panda life – they are very informative, are full of pictures, and make for fascinating reading. Have fun learning about these precious creatures!!
Moderator, if my information is “off the mark”, please just tell me to ‘zip my lip’ and leave the explaining to the experts.
Page #34 – Thanks for the link to Adelaide. There is no telling how much they spent/are spending on that exhibit! It is something else! However, it looks like there will be plenty of places for pandas to be out of sight for the public. Living in Northeast Missouri, we try to make it down to St. Louis a few times a year and their cheetah exhibit is so natural, I’ve never actually seen them! And, I totally agree with your suggestion to do pandas on parade. I saw in an earlier post asking if San Diego could do a plaster cast of Yun Zi’s paw and then auction it as a fundraiser. Moderator said this would be a conflict with their agreement with China.
Dear Moderator: Could you clarify why? Seems like us panda/animal fans would love to help support the zoo by purchasing one or two..or more!
You wouldn’t have to auction it, you could just sell them like you do the other animal merchandise!
Jersey #33 – Can you get a witness to your entry? Yes, from me! God’s creation is awesome….even tarantulas…which are my phobia!
We are called to be stewards of this planet He has made and I join you in trying my best to be a good one!
Moderator’s note: I agree it’s a fine line between what we can and can’t do. It’s my understanding that we can’t sell anything made by/from the pandas, such as plaster casts of their pawprints, but we can certainly sell merchandise that sports their likeness. I always send panda fan suggestions along to the appropriate department of the Zoo and let them make the decisions and have forwarded the panda parade idea.
he just wears his little self out!
Interesting. I was just watching on YouTube an old video of Xi Lan climbing from the teepee room to the hammock room, trying to get over Lun, and could swear he has a black tip on the bottom of his tail just like Yun Zi. The name of the video is Lun Lun More Cuteness. Check that out and see if any of you notice the black spot on the end of his tail. If so, he’s got to be Z-man to follow in his cuzzin’ X-man’s shoes – I mean paws.
How many different veterinarians care for the pandas? Many of the exam videos have a different vet, or do vets from other parts of the zoo rotate in to take a turn getting to work with little Yunior?
Moderator’s note: The Zoo’s vets do rotate so all have a chance to palpate Yunior.
Fu Long has arrived in China, according to the Vienna Zoo’s website.
If you didn’t catch it on Pandas Live On, there is a wonderful video retrospective of Fu Long’s life, with gorgeous music written for him.
I’ll try posting a link, as it seems the blog’s policy has changed about that. Don’t miss this!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-S3jPdhb4HA
Moderator’s note: We do allow links to file sharing sites such as YouTube, but I always check them first to make sure they are appropriate for our audience.
# 37 IHN from Asia , thank you for reminding us about that video, I remember watching it a long while ago and was amazed at his front legs strength. I also love it because you can see his white toes very well; I find those toes so cute!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l1xSS_GHkvo
I hope Fu Long had a safe journey to China yesterday. Don’t miss the English translation of the video about Fu Long’s trip to China posted on Pandas Live On website.
Yun Zi sure looks like he’d be a good swimmer!
Hi, Moderator! It looks like someone got my comment about the pandacam being out last nite, because I don’t see it on the comment list on this page. I did get on the pandacam a couple of minutes ago, and it was back up and working. Someone was on the ball and got it fixed! YEA!!!
Here’s a little conversation between Su Lin and Zhen Zhen while they were in their trees:
Su Lin: Hi, ZZ!
Zhen Zhen: Hi, Su!
SL: How are you doing?
ZZ: I’m fine! How are you doing?
SL: I’m fine, too! Love being up in the trees during this time of year!
ZZ: Yeah, it’s a little cooler now!
SL: Did you hear that our little brother finally got his name?
ZZ: Yeah, I did! I think his name is Yun Zi, right?
SL: Yes, it is! It means Son of Cloud! Bai Yun is our mom’s name, and that means White Cloud.
ZZ: So, Yun Zi was named after momma, right?
SL: Yes, he was! And, it fits him very nicely, too!
ZZ: Was our brother at the naming ceremony?
SL: No, but he did have his weekly vet check, tho!
ZZ: WOW!! How much does he weigh now?
SL: I heard he weighs around 13 pounds now. Gained some more weight!
ZZ: Momma will have a paw full of big cub now!
SL: Yep, she will! He’s already trying to do some walking, and you know what that means!
ZZ: What’s that??
SL: Momma chasing baby around the den and the dayrooms! We were like that when we were little, remember?
ZZ: Yeah, that was alot of fun having momma chase us around!
SL: I see my boo in my yard! Going down to get my lunch!
ZZ: You got your boo, I’ll be getting mine, too! Going down!
SL: OK! I’ll talk at you later, little sis!
ZZ: Talk at you later, big sis!
SL & ZZ: WE WUV YUN ZI!!!!!!!!!
Chari Mercier
St. Pete, FL
Anastasia, love your article about cubs climbing trees and other things! I love watching these panda cubs learn how to climb structures. They are so funny when they get started! They start to climb, fall down, get back up, start to climb again, and the cycle repeats itself until the cub really gets the hang of it! I have seen all of the cubs that I have followed doing this since Tai Shan, and every cub has had to go thru this process in the beginning! No doubt that Yun Zi will be going thru that very same learning curve on how to climb structures and trees once he gets his walking going good! He’ll be fun to watch as he gets this started in a couple of more months!
Thought of nicknames for Yun Zi. The one I just thought of was YUNI! Then, there’s just Yun or Zi, but I know that just about everybody on this blog still have their favorite nicknames for this cub ever since he was born! Stick to them, you all! They are just as cute!
Well, more surprises and milestones to come for this little guy! A lot to look forward to with Yuni!
Gonna go for now. Will be back later on!
Chari Mercier
St. Pete, FL
Our little Yun Zi is trying with all of his might to crawl out of the den. So precious! Go Yun Zi, Go!
i never seen a panda for really but they are so cute!! ily!! pandas
Yunior was trying mightily to join Mama outside the den. Poor widdle thing, the harder he worked to move forward, the farther backward he went! I love the way he wears himself out then collapses into a nap.
I don’t think it’s going to be long, though, before he figures out how to use all those little muscles.
Sweet dreams, little one.
Here I am again…….I know you posted where Yun Zis’ picture is…I don’t see him with the others. I almost typed the baby!!! He has a name now.
Moderator’s note: His most recent exam photos are in the Panda Photo Gallery.
#34 Page…When I saw the Pandas on Parade yesterday, I thought of ZA and their campaign to raise money to keep the pandas in Atlanta. Somewhere, another city had a project similar to the pandas and the cows but I can’t remember what animal they used for the statues. It would be fun if Pandas on Parade or some mutation of it came to the U.S.
Wang Wang and Funi will be in Australia very soon!
According to a Reuters news report, China is giving Singapore two pandas, set to arrive in Singapore in late 2011. I am wondering if “give” actually means “give,” as in they are Singapore’s to keep, or if it means loan.
I also read that Tuan Tuan and Yuan Yuan have been separated to see whether absence will make the heart grow fonder, as one report worded it. They didn’t warm up to each other so the head of Wolong suggested they be kept apart, presumably until the spring breeding season arrives (source: Telegraph/UK).
When does Yun Zi get his picture on the front page with his parents and brother and sisters?
Moderator’s note: We can’t put everyone on the Panda Cam page, but his picture and bio are on the Meet the Pandas page and his latest video is on our home page.
A wonderful cartoon highlighting our Yun Zi’s fame appeared on the Op/Ed page of today’s San Diego Union Tribune.
Moderator’s note: It’s been circulating around our offices! Here’s the link.
December 26, 2008 I saw Bai Yun climb the tree next to the howdy gate and attempt to get past the
tree guard, as I was taking her photo something else begin to appear in the photo and it was Zhen Zhen
who had climed up behind her. Now they were both up in the same spot and Bai Yun deceided she better come
down. What happened next was the funniest thing I have ever witnessed ( and I have see a few at the exhibit).
Bai Yun and Zhen Zhen came down together, paw over paw it was amazing! My photos are on flickr
2008 Panda set. http://www.flickr.com/photos/ritapetita/
Moderator’s note: What an amazing series of photos! Here’s the direct link to the climbing incident.
Thank You Anastasia for your tree climbing story! The story motivated me to finally attempt to put a video on You Tube. On Tuesday the 17th, prior to Yun Zi receiving his name, I was able to film Zhen Zhen climbing her tree
I thought I’d share the activity because….Zhen was awake 
Here is the link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mzd4lTrpmSw
Moderator’s note: I’ll put this on the blog post’s page, as it goes so nicely with the topic!
I agree with an earlier comment — if you want to see a panda doing something other than sleep, watch Gao Gao. He is such a ham. He seems to love entertaining the tourists. I love to look at the pictures we took of him being entirely too cute for words.
In Vancouver we have had 3 different animal painted sculptures over the last few years. Aftrer being on display all summer long, they were auctioned off to raise money for the B. C. Lions Society and Easter Seal House. First was Orcas in the City, then the Spitit Bears and just finished were Eagles. They were placed all over Vancouver. They also had a location map printed and my daughter and I would spend a Sunday trying to find them all.
If anyone is interested in seeing what we are talking about, just type into your search engine “orcas in the city” (or any of the other animals) and you can see fantastic paint jobs, etc. Tourists loved them too.
No video feed last night; did not want to go crazy without my Yun Zi and so I spent my evening printing one photo from each exam. Now that I have fourteen (I also printed the photos from the adopt a panda with a red bow, and special feature), I will go get an album this weekend and start my collection. Or should I just pin them all over my bedroom wall? Decisions… decisions…decisions… What a beauty! He totally distracts me from finishing writing my second book of poetry. Oh well!
Moderator’s note: I just learned we had a power outage last night. All is well now.
Roly Poly tries to walk and then he goes to his metal door at the back of his den. It looks like he can see his reflection in it, can he? He seems to be looking at his cute little self! Has anyone else noticed this?
What does Yun Zi teethe on? It looks like he bites his paw, but I’m not so sure. Does he use the bamboo in the den? Maybe he teethes on his mom while she sleeps? Any idea?
Hi all
I have a question about Panda food again. I have been trying to read all I can, but I haven’t found out anything about the foraging abilities for them. Vegetables and fruits like the ones we allow them to have as treats, in particular. If those types of items were available in their natural state, say close to thier bamboo groves, do they know to dig them up? If not, is that something they can be trained for? Heehee, maybe at some point in the future we could start making trips to China to plant gardens for them! Carrots, beets, sweet taters, apple trees etc. I just can’t imagine eating say, asparagus only, everyday, for the rest of my life… Granted it is good and all, but a little variety is a better thing 
Oh!! And I found a pic and small write up about what is supposed to be Bai Yun’s mother, Dong Dong. She is so pretty
She appears to be much more petite than her daughter, but Bai Yun looks just like her except much larger. I guess Momma Bai gets her size from Poppa Pan Pan. I am still working on finding a pic of him.
Ok, so back to imagining what it is like to “palpate” little Yun Zi…heehee!
Moderator’s note: Your food question has been forwarded to our Panda Team.
Are Yun Zi’s movements when he’s sleeping like REM’ng?
Zhen Zhen video is wonderful! A treat for someone who can’t get to the zoo more than every few years. It felt like being there! THANK YOU!!!!
We had a cow parade in La Jolla last year. Great painted cows…..then they were sold.
To Mollie #61: Oh WOW!!!! Thank you for sending the link to the photograph slide show of Bai and Zhen tree climbing! Gosh! Awesome Photos!!!!
To Moderator: Thank you
Dear Moderator, Thank you for the explanation about what’s allowed and what’s not. Guess there won’t be any petrified panda poops for sale either, eh? I’d even buy one or two of those for paper weights to go with the rest of my panda paraphanalia in my office at work. What a great conversation starter that would be! Most everyone knows when they walk in that I love pandas, and just about every other animal. Everytime I visit a zoo I buy at least one stuffed animal from the zoo store of an animal I saw that day. Glad my work lets me decorate the way I do! I have a menagerie…an elephant, tiger, lion, penguin, giraffe, polar bear, and many, many pandas. My nieces gave me the small version of the WowWee robotic panda that was sponsoring your panda cam a few years back and I have 2 San Diego zoo calendars on the wall…one of just the pandas and one with a different animal each month. Yes, everyone who comes in knows what I’m crazy for!! Thank you for all you do and for reading all our posts and even responding when questions are asked. San Diego has the best zoo site of them all!
#62 Video of Zhen Zhen, we were there too and she was chasing a squirrel that had to jump to the nearest tree to get away for Zhen Zhen.
Thanks Bobbie Wood #62.
The video is wonderful – some close up shots of our ZZ. She’s looking more grown up and lovelier every time I see shots of her!
Bobbie … what a wonderful job of filming ZZ. Do you do this for a living? I really enjoyed watching it. Did I talk to you in line before the ceremony? I remember talking to a lady, who had been taking pictures of ZZ climbing. Thank you for sharing.
hi bobbie wood..
great zoomin in on our zhennie! such clarity.
loved B’s ninth as background music.
zhennie needed a little atterntion, having a new baby bro gets all the attention.
thanks, bobbie.
joan
painted post, n.y.
Carol, #60, thanks for the alert about the cartoon. Isn’t our little Yun Zi getting sooo famous!
Mollie, #61, your pictures are just wonderful. I used to have an slr camera, with telephoto and tripod. I walked all over the zoo taking pictures. It was such fun. That old camera is long gone but you make me want to take my little digital camera and try to get some pictures of my favorite animals. By the way, I also have a cat … had two until the coyotes got my orange tabby last year … had him 11 years and just cried and cried when he died … sigh …. and I also have a humming bird feeder outside my window but have not tried to get any pictures … yet. Thank you for sharing also.
Bai Yun will soon probley be chasing him all over the zoo!!!!!
#57 – TAMI MICHAUD – the photo & info about Yun Zi is not on the main page but when you click to the to the panda cam page – there is a section there called “Meet the Pandas’
Question? Pandas by nature are doscile, if you were to approach one would it attack? I say this only as a major in a field of science
Moderator’s note: See the post Some Questions Answered.
# 62 Bobbie Wood, Thank you so much for the video, Zhen Zhen has become such a beautiful young female panda. Recently one blog addressed her resemblance to her father Gao Gao, but tree climbing is definitively something she inherited from her mom Bai Yun. When I started watching your video I recognized Beethoven’s 9th Symphony and was hoping that her tree climbing expedition wasn’t going to be as dramatic as some of parts of the Symphony are… I hope pandas recognize that when they are growing, branches on which they used to climb on may not be strong enough later in life, I am trying not to use “full figured” to describe a young lady….
Hi Sherie #45 – hopefully I can answer your question. The Adelaide Zoo received about $A19 million to build the Panda exhibit, a new perimeter fence for the whole zoo, a new and modern entrance to cope with the expected crowds, new catering facilities, a bamboo plantation to feed Wang Wang and Funi etc. This was the first time that the Govt had given substantial funding as Adelaide Zoo was one of the few Zoos in Australia that was really a not for profit – member and sponsor driven. Pandas on Parade is about raising awareness of the Adelaide Zoo, Conservation and the risk of extinction facing these beautiful animals. The Zoo partnered with various other organisations as a means of also raising their profiles and raising much needed funds.
Adelaide Zoo has the most amazing and respected senior staff who have brought this small zoo to the forefront in much of the work they do.
Wang Wang and Funi arrive one week today and will immediately go back into quarantine and go on display for the first time on December 13 ( still in quarantine). I have booked to go and “visit” at 8.15 on December 15th – can’t wait
Cheers to all of my fellow pandaholics all over the world
wow ZZ is huge! thanks Bobbie Wood for the video…sometimes we forget just cuz ZZ is a baby ..she a big baby!
# 61 Mollie, thank you so much for the slide show!! I should have written in my previous post that Zhen Zhen inherited or learned tree climbing from her mom Bai Yun. What a good teacher she is….
Love the panda’s keep up the great work zoo’s we need more animales here in the big illand of Hawaii and congratz mama;s Panda’s and familey and outher animales who gavce birth this season and the year’s to come
Who is kjdrill? I just was googling for pictures of pandas in trees and found an amazing set of zhen zhen in a tree and other great sdz photos on kjdrill’s page on flickr. Also some shots of the naming ceremony yesterday. kj, are you a blogger here? Do you do photos for the zoo? There are also phenomenal tiger photos and… so on.
To Mollie #74 and Becky #76: Were you both together? I did get video of the little squirrel before and after he hopped to the other tree
I was the person with the grey panda FAN shirt and grey hair 
I have fun with the camera….making DVD’s of different ‘topics’ including my grandchildren (AKA: The Fab Five) for my Mom who lives in Kansas. The SDZ is absolutely my favorite venue to film, and now that I’ve learned how to upload, I’ll make certain I will have more video to share of the Animals at the Zoo 
#78 Tiny – On Youtube there is a video of Dong Dong, Bai’s mother, by chetchin
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BJY4vgyz2X8
#61 – Mollie – soo funny – thanks for sharing
:)
Bobbie Wood – having trouble watching your video – iwill keep trying
#89 Jeri – thank you for the link to Bai Yun’s mama. She is just beautiful. She reminds me of an elegant grande dame.
And thanks, moderator, for posting the link to the cartoon. I loved it!!! Too cute!
#89 Jeri – I appreciate you finding that video Jeri. Thanks so much! Isn’t she pretty
She has a playful look about her as well. Guess thats where Momma Bai gets her mischief streak…heehee. Gosh, wouldn’t she be proud of all her beautiful grandbabies (cubs?).
#62 Bobbie Wood – Thanks for our starring feature of the day! Heehee the music matched just perfectly.
#61 Mollie and Ms Moderator – Wonderful shots of the ladies playing on that tree…thanx!
#16 Melissa – LOL! Well thats not something we get to see everyday
Grats Mei Sheng, we are proud of you!!
Hope I didn’t leave anyone out…Thank all for sharing so much and making our Panda World so much fun!
Tiny #68 – Bai Yun’s father, Pan Pan is a rather ‘full bodied, manly man’ panda (to use the last vet’s words)… aka he’s one big boy! I think that’s where Bai Yun (and her half brother Tian Tian) get their size.
Mollie #61 and Bobbie #62 – thank you so much for the video and the pictures!
Yun Zi looks so small on the den camera. How high up is the camera and though the lighting is low, do they see the light on them?
Ever since I read the introduction to 2 toed sloths from the animal ambassador earlier this year, I have been intrigued by them. National Zoo has two of them who live in boxes high up in the Golden Lion Tamarin exhibit. I have been lucky enough to “catch” glimpses of them on the GLT camera at night on Thursday and Friday evenings. The SDZ ambassador explained that Sloths only come down to the ground every 7 days or so to defecate. Tonight was one of those times. It is always interesting to watch the slow motion actions of the sloths as they climb down the vines to the ground, do their weekly” thing” and slowly climb back again. Normally I see the one who sleeps in the box on the back wall of the exhibit, but tonight the sloth was climbing up the vine in the front of the exhibit next to the window, so my guess is it is the one that is hard to see in the daytime because it lives in a box up over the window. The GLT’s and sloths are active at opposite ends of the 24 spectrum, so they don’t encounter each other and can co-habitate in the same exhibit space nicely. So, if you are up late at night, and want to see live action of what you learn on the SDZ blogs, check out the NZP web cameras some evening. It is all a total education that can’t be found anywhere else.
Mollie #61 LOL!! They look like a couple of black & white wooly bear caterpillars!
odd question. From my camera view it looks like there is some poop on the den floor. It certainly is to small to be bai yuns. It could be yun zi’s?
Bobbie, we did talk at the zoo, before the ceremony … you were going back to the panda exhibit to take some more pictures and I stayed in line. Yes, I sat on the same bench as Mollie, with a small empty space between us … where the reporter sat for a few minutes. I was next to the back-up lady for the moderator … a very nice lady … but forgot to get her name also. Actually, I love animals and get along well with them, but I tend to be awkward and shy around people. I am face-blind and will not recognize you if we both show up at the panda exhibit some day. Please don’t be offended. Just tell me who you are and I will remember you. I just won’t recognize you.
#83 Jan…Enjoy Wang Wang and Funi! I enjoyed reading Adelaide’s panda blog and learning about your zoo and your pandas. I know they will be a huge hit! I love the ‘countdown’ clock that ticks away the minutes until the public can view Funi and Wang Wang. It will be interesting from a research standpoint to find out how they adjust to the season’s being “backwards” (for them, at least).
#92 Tiny…You made me giggle!
We definitely cover all things panda here, don’t we? 
Dong Dong is very pretty!
#61 Mollie…Your photos are beautiful! I’ve run across them before and admired them when I was looking for pictures of Gao Gao to gush over.
You capture everything wonderful about all of the pandas’ personalities!
I found a website for the cow parades that have been undertaken all around the world and had no idea that so many cities had participated. They’ve made further money by selling small replicas of the cows, which again made me think that the Pandas on Parade would have been a great idea for ZA, or for any of the cities with pandas Other tie-ins that generate money are plush cows and calendars. I didn’t see t-shirts but I’d buy a nice t-shirt with an image of a painted panda on it. Some of the other animals that have been similarly featured in various cities are horses/ponies, bison, pigs, moose, elephants…and many others. Lots of possibilities for the SDZ (hint, hint).
Sorry to go on and on about Pandas on Parade, but another thought that came to mind is making small replicas of the painted pandas into Christmas ornaments. That’d be for the ones without advertising, of course.
I want to be Bai so I can cuddle with His Royal Cuteness!
WOW baby is really active lately, kicking and boxing mommy….what a handfull ! Mommy is actually dozing, but Yun Zi will not give her rest….I can see him running and climbing already…………and his mouth is open alot, maybe squeaking?? Barking?? or Yawning……….
This is my first baby Panda, were the others this active?? or what compaired??
aww i love pandas im so upset that they are endangered
:):):
there so cute there my favorite animal. lets help the pandas
TOGETHER
I FINALLY got to see one of the evening play sessions (with the time difference I seem to miss out a lot of activity)
Momma Bai sure does love to “toss & maul” Yuni while he sure fights back 
It ended up with a long nursing session 
And now the den is empty – another night time excursion
#62 Bobbie Wood – what a great capture!! That ZZ has no fear whatsoever. I’m sure she would have kept going if she hadn’t ran out of branches. I could see where the maintenance crew had done their pruning to keep Miss Adventure within her enclosure. Thank you for sharing.
Well, I am trying to get up the nerve to watch the video of Fu Long everyone is talking about. But I remember about 2 years ago, watching Mei Sheng and SuLin at the Howdy Gate, it would be their last meeting because Sheng was leaving for China. I took picture after picture of Sheng putting his paw up and Su Lin doing the same, as it seemed they both knew it was the last time they would ever see each other, and they were saying goodbye. Well, all of a sudden my nose got that tingling ouchy pain, and I was making those hiccuppy, I am NOT crying noises. I just could not stand it. So, knowing how I react to distressing, sad, animal farewells, I do not think I could “bear” it this time either, with little white foot, FuLong’s video. I can hardly even think about him leaving his mommy and going back to China without the tears starting. On another note..I would like to thank all the people who came back from the Naming Ceremony and reported their stories to the Virtual Seaters and others. Plus, thanks again for the video’s you have all worked so hard to make and sharing them with us. Also, making pictures taken at the ceremony available to be seen by us all. This community has grown in leaps and bounds and I am honored to be a part of it.
Good camera work, Bobbie! Thank you for sharing. Anatasia, thank you for this nice story. I love coming here every day to see and learn something new!
Thanks to all who provided the photos and videos of beautiful Miss ZZ, Mme Bai and Empress Dong Dong.
Looks like our little YZ-Man and Mom are out on a moonlight excursion.
Moderator–could prints of the pandas’ footprints (or pictures of them) be sold to help the rebuilding fund, so that SDZ wasn’t “profiting” and the money went to the pandas? I’m convinced many of us would like something like a pawprint–it could be obtained from prints made by them during their normal activities and not “created” by them as things to be sold like the wonderful elephant paintings were. Could you ask the appropriate parties?
Moderator’s note: I will certainly ask
#68 Tiny
Pandas love to eat bamboo. In the wild, their diet is 99% bamboo. The other 1% is made up of random items. They will eat from agricultural fields on occasion, but planting vegetable gardens for pandas is not a realistic approach to conservation. Sounds fun, though!
Well I guess it’s time to add walking to Yun Zi’s list as he was going a mile a minute with his paws lying on his side until he hit some bamboo that got him upright and scooted right out of the den…..I guess a new nickname can be “Scooter” as I was amazed how fast he actually was…..To all my Panda Friends at both the SDZ and Pandaholic Pals worldwide we’re hoping that Lynn’s Doctor’s will finally allow her home after 11 months confined to a Hospital bed due to complications with her Degenerative Bone Joint Disease…..As it is now the 20th. in NJ I wished her a Happy Anniversery via telephone and let her know that I bought her a “Hasbro FURREAL FRIENDS LUV CUB PANDA” as one of her gifts,and thru the use of a permanent black magic marker colored the tip of its tail and gave it the name “Yun Zi” on the adoption paper….At least until she is able to travel she can have her own “Yun Zi” to keep her company in the Hospital until we can come and see the real wonder of the world “Yun Zi’ Live at the SDZ…..Keep us posted on Panda Activities Worldwide ,as it is amazing how many people around the word have now joined us “Pandaholics” as we’ve seen all the USA Pandas live except the Memphis pair which we had planned on seeing before Lynn’s condition deteriorated…..Panda Love to all!!!!
# 108 Widget, Don’t be sad about Fu Long, he spent more than two years with his mommy, that’s more than any other panda that I know of. If he could have stayed in Vienna, that would have been in a separate enclosure all by himself. It is time for his parents to try to have another cub. In China he will be with other 2-year old cubs as playmates. He is very lucky; he gets the best of both worlds…
Jeslyn #94–I think they said the camera is about 5.5 feet up from the den floor. The light is night vision and is meant not to be seen by the pandas (though who knows–maybe they can see night vision light?). A human looking in the den would think it totally dark, except during the day when sunlight might come in from the outside.
#110 Panda Team – Thanx for taking the time to reply. It means a lot
I have no doubt that our precious Pandas are in the absolute best hands possible. But you are right, the garden thing would be fun…heehee!
#61 Mollie and #62 Bobbie, thank you both for amazing photos/video of Bai Yun and Zhen Zhen.
Moderator, thanks for posting the link to the cartoon. Love it!
Is Yun Zi discovering bamboo and starting to mimic Bi Yun? I know he’s too young to actually eat it….but it sure looked like this morning that he’s sniffing it!
The video of Zehn Zehn climbing was very entertaining thank you. What a wonderful time she had as I did while watching it!
Also, moderator, how come the DC(?) Pandas are in the same inclosure? Are they mother and cub? It looks like their inclosures are very large is that the case? Not that these bears need a large area since they mostly spend their lives eating bamboo…also, I notice they follow the Pandas all around via the camera? Is that a volunteer doing this or do they actually have the funds to pay somebody to do that?
Another question, sorry if you’ve addressed it already, but when will Yun Zi and Bi Yun make a public appearence?
By the way, thanks for all you do in trying to answer everybody’s questions……… I betcha it’s a “bear” of a job! (sorry couldn’t resist!)
And to all the SD Zoo Panda Keepers and staff as well as all the Panda Cam fans Happy Holidays
Moderator’s note: I am not qualified to answer questions about another zoo’s pandas. As for Yun Zi’s public appearance, that is up to his walking ability and his mother’s comfort level in taking her cub out. Previous cubs have made their debut in mid-December, but we can’t promise anything…
what a great video! I held my breath thinking that a branch would break and Zhen Zhen would tumble tumble!
#87 Page, KJDrill is a panda fan and one of the regular photographers who frequent the zoo. If you are looking on flickr LATAIFAN and Nekomama are two other photographers who have wonderful photos of our San Diego Panda family. KJDrill shines with his photos of the Big Cats and Elephants at the Wild Animal Park. FYI I only mention these 3 individual photographers because I know them personally, I am sure there are many others out there.
Thanks to Mollie and Bobbie for the picture set and video. (For your first time effort Bobbie that was amazing!)
Thanks to everyone else for your contributions. Lovely videos of exam and naming ceremony. Hope someone else will post link to pictures from the 17th. That’s all. Hope everyone has a really good weekend.
AJ #117 – The two pandas you are referring to in DC are Mei Xiang (female) and Tian Tian (male). They are the mother and father of Tai Shan. You will only see them together when they are in the outdoor enclosures, usually in the morning. When they start to get too rough, they are separated.
119 Mollile – Don’t forget Rita Petita!! Her (your) photos are wonderful!
KJ also has a great series of photos of Gao Gao.
Quick Questions:
1. Why is Gao Gao “Big Big” and Zhen Zhen is not “Precious Precious?”
2. When Gao and Bai go to China, what happens t the panda program?
I am off to Disneyland! Bye everyone! Panda keepers or Moderator: Say bye to Yunior for me!!!!!!!
I’m amazed by the range of motion of the panda’s back legs. I’ll seem His Royal Cuteness Yun Zi with his hind legs on the side of him, under him and all around. Are the bears hind legs a little longer then their front legs? Thanks for your answers, you guys rock!
It appears that our boy Yun Zi has recovered from his big naming day and latest exam.
From all appearances looking at him in the den just now (on his back with legs every which way and sound asleep) that he is now ready to be a big boy bear just like his daddy with no responsibilities other than being cute and entertaining. Oh, we could throw in spoiled and full of confidence (I am remembering his barking at the staff at one of his exams). And, yes, he will want to be a papa some day.
This is all too bad, because Yun Zi has to live up to his name whcih honors his mother Bai Yun. And her accomplishments are unapproachable.
Great blog. I’ve seen the cubs in the trees when I’ve been there but it is even more amazing to watch an adult panda climbing. Considering their size it is truly astounding how agile they are in getting up to the top. Most adult bears don’t climb trees in the U.S. Their cubs do of course as that is also how their mother protects them but I don’t see an adult black bear or grizzly trying that. The video is awesome. Thanks Bobbie.
BTW, how many of you lucky virtual panda fans who attended the Cub Naming Ceremony in person met the moderator? You are very lucky indeed as you can now make face connection when you read all the great blogs from keepers and animal narrators, and the moderator’s comments.
#117 A. J. You were asking about the pandas in D.C. They have 3 different outside yards for their pandas and they all take turns using them. Sometime you will see two pandas together that’s Mei Xiang and Tian Tain that’s the mom and dad but they are not together all the time. Also DC has I think 3 different inside enclosure. Their son Tai Shan 4 years old is always by himself. Yes they have zoo volunteers to operate their web cameras during the day. I hope this answers some of your questions.
As some have said we shouldn’t feel sad for Fu Long going back to China. I know it was his time but it’s like being his mother and he’s going out on his own and knowing you may not see him again. It won’t be long before beautiful Mei Lan in Atlanta will also be going back to China. And then we have to deal with the ideal of Tai Shan in D.C. and Su Lin in S. D. leaving for China also. Oh my probably about February little Xi Lan aka X-man at Atlanta will be taken from his mother and put on his own. We better get several boxes of tissues ready I know I will need them.
#117 A.J.
The DC Pandas at the NZ are Mei Xiang and Tian Tian, mother and father of cub, Tai Shan. They are kept together because they have been raised together since they were cubs. In the past they have been separated after Mei has been artificially inseminated (Tian can’t get it right!! LOL) and kept apart until it is determined if Mei is preganant or not. Not sure who is manning the cameras!!
#113..Danielle…..My head fully understands what must be done and it will be in FuLong’s best interests to move to China…now, if only heart would follow along…
Hi All – In case someone else mentioned this, please forgive the repeat. NZ is offering 44 cent
animal postage stamps, including one of the giant panda. Just go to the NZ website to order.
Love SDZ and all the TLC for the animals and for us. Thank you! Happy weekend everyone.
I just witnessed the great escape. 11:56pm Little man just left Bai Yun in the den ! Hilarious !! Yun Zi left the den, without mom. Of course untill she retrieved him. =) That was great !
Omigosh, how very cute. Just watched Bai pull Yunior back into the den. He was heading out and she pulled him right back!
This time he got all the way out on his own. And Bai followed him. Empty den!!
Ok so… besides me… does anyone out there go back to the 11th exam and the 5th exam to hear him yell? Over and over again? I now have my entire office knowing which exam it is just based on the yelp… Between Yun Zi everyday and the Cat Fan video on Fridays… I am the entertainment section of the office.. or rather our animals are!!! When they are playing in the den do they make noises at each other? I know there was a bog about how they are quiet.. but he so looks like he is yelling at her when she has him pinned down and biting him. IT IS SO funny to watch!!! Just wondering. Oh and no one ever answered… do Panda cubs have puppy breath?
Yun ‘chubbie’ Zi is working his way outside the birthing den. He’s a rockin’ back and forth. I could watch him all day….HOW CUTE!
Wow–is Mom taking YZ-Man out to the classroom space?
They’re crackin’ me up right now! It looks like when you’re trying to get a diaper on a baby, and they keep rolling over, to try and get away. He’s getting really good at it, and he’s not giving up. We could almost say he’s mastered his crawl, however, he can’t get any practice in because of his mom. It’s clear that she’s not ready to allow this to happen. He deserves the nickname Bungee since Bai continues to pull him right back as if he’s on a rubber band. It’s funny, he’s just not going to give up. This is the first panda cub I’ve watched since birth. He seems pretty rebellious, kicking and swatting @ mom during cleaning time. I was just wondering, is this typical behavior? Is it the boy in him? Isn’t it too early to start acting like a toddler?
wow momma took the baby boy outside! I sorta worried when I couldnt see the baby and wondered if this is a usual thing for Momma to do ?
Whoa! What’s going on?!
Bai took Yunior out of the sun room, out of sight for about half an hour. She kept returning…without baby.
And THEN, a human crawled in, carrying the baby back to the den!
Baby is now promptly crawling back out again! He’s really getting the hang of crawling now.
MODERATOR: please tell us the story of the human having to retrieve the baby!
Thanks
Moderator’s note: Keepers tell us that Bai Yun took Yun Zi out a little farther today than she has before to a location just out of camera range. She then went on outdoors to eat, and keepers used the opportunity to interact with the cub before showing him the way back to the den.
Chubs is starting to get around pretty good! Just watched him walking around the den! (too scared to venture out yet though)
Awwww. He didn’t make it outside. Did that fall- asleep-in-mid-step thing I love so much. He’s now curled up for a good nap.
I have a question, I hope it’s not off-topic. Does Bai Yun (or any other panda mom) play with her male cubs differently than the female cubs? Humans tend to be a lot more rough with male infants, and some panda fans have mentioned observing Bai rough Yun Zi around, batting him playfully. Did she do this with ZZ and Su Lin too?
“and keepers used the opportunity to interact with the cub before showing him the way back to the den.”
For a weigh in or for much hugging, kissing, quiet adoration, or playing pass around His Royal Highness Yun Zi?
I missed his little escapade, but noticed it on the Panda Cam Time Lapse and had to check out the posts!
This has been a very eventful afternoon for Yun Zi! Twice Bai had to retrieve him when he got out of the den while she was still inside! But then she left, and the little guy followed her out to the bedroom! This time though he got crawled back into the den ALL BY HIMSELF!!! (This was before he got out yet again, and Bai took him out of camera view, and the keeper returned him to the den). Here’s the link for “Yun Zi: In and Out of the Den by Himself!!!”:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4FrR3CBIYaY
#143 Debi – Hahaha!! My thoughts exactly. Now I am left trying to decide if I would rather “interact with” or “palpate” little Yun Zi
#125 = Peggy – check out “Tai Shan vs Mommy: Da Battle of Da Twee” on youtube. Momma is up in Tai’s tree & he wants her down
Cubmuffin is walking!!! Yay! But why would the keepers bring him back inside after Bai took him out? Doesn’t “Bai knows best” apply?
The Panda Team responds: The keepers just took this opportunity with the cub to do a bit of training. This has been done with the previous cubs, too.
Wow..The Great Escape and I missed it. Thanks for the video DoxieMom. I knew it was going to be soon. The last couple of days he’s gotten up to edge and almost made it out then fell asleep. I think the denning phase is just about done, whether Bai Yun likes it or not. I can’t stop humming “How you gonna keep em down on the farm, after they’ve seen Pareee!!
I got such a kick out of watching Mr. Yun Zi walk around the interior perimeter of the den at around 12:30 PM Pac. time
He made two trips that I saw; each time he came to the den doorway, he seriously contemplated going further 
Instead of making a third trip, he tucked his head and fell asleep right at the doorway! It’s now 2:20 Pac time….he hasn’t moved 
Yun Zi is REALLY WALKING!!!!! When he is awake 
DoxieMom, Oh how I hope you had your ‘magic program’ running today
To all: Have a great weekend!
DoxieMom19 – from all of us trying to get in our 40 hours and keep track of the video stream/blog….we thank you!!
Some have asked about pronunciation of Yun Zi’s name. When you hear it on the web site for Chinese names, and from the announcement: it sounds like ‘yoon zi’ (as in zip, without the p. or it, without the t). I’ve been saying it over and over in my mind, and I think I finally have it.
Moderator: did I get it even close?
Moderator’s note: Oh no–I am not expert on pronouncing Chinese words
I missed the adventure! But yesterday I did adopt a panda for my sister for her birthday.
Moderator’s note: Thank you for your adoption gift!
Doxie Mom- The link to your video of the “great escape” works, but once I get there, the video won’t play. Any suggestions?
DoxieMom, great job again. I can always count on you to have the video! Thank you.
This video is for those of you that missed Yun Zi’s little escapade, when he got out of the den (again), then carried away by Bai out of camera view, and then returned to the den. Once back, he really was moving around the den very well, the best I’ve seen yet! The link for “Yun Zi: Watch Me Go!!” (in real time!) is:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uF6FEfCyoqM
Tiny #145 === Emphatically YES!
Oh Good Grief!!! Doxiemom Thank You!! I certainly missed all the excitement because I first, ate lunch, and then went to the grocery store a little before 1:00!! Timing is everything!
DoxieMom~You are fabulous for getting that on video and sharing with the rest of us. I really appreciate it! What a busy little boy Yun Zi was today! I am amazed he got out three times (and laughing at the way Bai keeps dragging him in) and LOVED that he crawled back in like that. It was almost like he saw her coming and said “Oh, oh. I don’t think Mommy wants me out here.” At the same time I noticed him longingly looking at the door to her garden room. I know in the next few days he is planning on escaping the den and getting across the floor to that doorway! His feet are starting to work right! Yay!!! Adorable cubby!!!
Shirly #153, I had trouble getting one of the two videos to run also, one which I’d watched earlier!!! The solution: hit the “HQ” button, bottom right next to sound on the status bar! Hope that helps!
Hope everyone is doing great. Debbie you have been fantastic and I thank you. Up in the mountains of the Hudson Valley in N.Y. we have been having our Indian Summer where we are teased with warm weather before winter hits. But it is a time to enjoy before we hanker down for the cold months ahead. It is apple country and in Sept. and Oct. the whole area has the wonderful scent of fresh apples. Many differant kinds of farms. Even a world wide known Horse farm, whos breeding reputation is untouched. These horses are magnificent. Through my travels I have met alot of people who have a total misconception of New York. They only associate it with a big city as Manhattan. But most of it is not city but country. Since there are so many intenational bloggers here I thought it might be nice to exchange and discribe where we live. Yes without getting too personal. But we have been all sharing a wonderful experience together as a family and our love for the Pandas for awhile now, thanks to the SDZ and the Moderators! (ofcourse) I thought it might be fun to share our geographical surroundings when their is no action in the den. A Howdy fence here. I would sure love to hear it. DoxieMom I can’t sing your praises enough. I have missed soo many monumental moments with dispair. You always come through and offer what I have missed. Seems at the times I can tune in lately I see “Sleeping Bear” “missing Ma Ma” Debbie we all I’m sure would like to know about you. Again nothing personal. You are after all the head of this family. Yes I was chatty this eve. @ 7:05 NY time PM. but let me know what you think?
Debbie responds: We’ve been thinking about offering a type of “guest book” for panda fans to “sign.” Perhaps info about the fan’s own part of the world could be included, if readers are interested. I would sign it!
Thank you, Doxiemom!!!!! That’s adorable. (By the way, rebooting the computer made Youtube start to work.)
Moderator, see #147, what is the first kind of training that little Yunior will get? That would be interesting for us to know. Where does the training occur? Could it be captured by one of the webcams? We can’t get enough information about the darling little guy.
Moderator’s note: The most important first step is for Yun Zi to get comfortable with his keepers.
Tiny #145 and Mary #155–let’s see–another choice has been added: “interact with,” “palpate,” or “do a bit of training” –sign me up for all three please! (Thanks for asking the Panda Team. Moderator!)
It was so exciting to watch little Yun Zi walking about this afternoon!! Moderators, could you ask the Panda Team to write a blog about what kind of “training” they do with the cubs? Or maybe there is a blog about this already? I was disappointed when they switched the panda cam right when the human (was that Kathy?) appeared!
Moderator’s note: We hope to have a blog post about today’s adventure.
Bravo, Yun Zi! You are clearly walking! And thank you, DoxieMom for making it possible for all to see.
Love the guest book idea. It does feel like we are a panda family. There has been a particular poster that I think I know but I didn’t want to ask. A guest book would be great. I would love to know how many pandaholics regularly read/post here.
I watched a really exchange between Lin Ping and Mommy a little while ago. Mommy (Lin Hui) was sitting against the wall/bars, and Lin Ping thought it would be a good idea to climb her. She stood on her head then shoulders with her front paws on the bars of the enclosure. Talk about hand-fulllllllllllllll! DoxieMom, did you get that one? And again, you are amazing! Thank you again.
Thank you Frances for the info on the camera height.
Also, I think the Zi part is pronounced like a Gee, or a breathless Jee. At least that is the way it was said at the ceremony. Its a rather hushed, breathless sound, like saying shssh but with a Gee. Hard to describe but I don’t think its a hard Zee….as per say.
It’s almost like swallowing your tongue with the Yun and then the soft “she” or “gee”.
I can say it but can’t describe it as I sit here saying it out loud to myself!
Thank you again Doxiemom……you made my day. Now that he is walking…..I’ll have to tune in all day while I bake holiday cookies……
Frances (152) — definitely sign me up for all three. Have done lots of training (humans) in several of my lives.
The guest book idea is a neat idea. DoxieMom — thank you so much for those wonderful videos — got them bookmarked for further review. Cloudlet really seems to be walking with his belly off the ground. Is that definitely confirmed??? Sweet panda dreams y’all.
Mama Bai is unbelievably patient with her Yunior. He’s climbing all over her face while she tries to snooze, but she just gently moves him. Adorable. These pandas almost seem human at times. I had NO idea that mama bears treat the cubs so gently.
Better late than never! I did promise you I’d post my photos of the ceremony. I know a bunch of other people have already done so, and many of the pictures will seem repetitive. Still, it’s fun to watch.
It took forever to upload the photos, but here we are. I just posted 21 photos to my Facebook photo page. Here’s the link. http://tinyurl.com/NamingCeremony
Also, in case you didn’t see it, on the post “Panda Cub receives his name” San Di #183 posted a link to the gift photo that we all got for attending the Naming Ceremony. It’s a beautiful photo of our delicious cub Yun Zi.
Still smiling thinking about how marvelous the ceremony was, and how inspiring it was to hear of the positive efforts that the SDZ is making – actually, the positive strides! – in panda conservation. No wonder it’s the world’s best zoo!
Finally got to see the end of the video of the ceremony. Don’t know what is happening with my computer when it froze up. The doctor was pronouncing it differently from the gentleman who first said it at the microphone. This man said Za…..
I guess folks aren’t all going to agree on how to say it in the end….
Guest book is good!
DoxieMom, thanks for the video.
Bobbie Wood, great catch!
# 160 – Brandy NY: Pardon the ignorance, who is Debbie???
Dennis & Lynn Carney(NJ): Happy Anniversary! Many, many more to come… Lynn, get well soon & enjoy your gift “Spot”. I have a guinea pig (live one) who has a chip on his ears and I nicknamed him Chip, of course.
Moderator’s note: The moderator.
Oh my little adorable “Peanut”. Even though we loved your adventure today, and you are getting so grown up, I’m looking at you now with your little pudgy arms and legs straight out as you slumber after a big day, I almost wish you could stay little forever. Your innocence and sweetness melt my heart. You’re going to be one georgeous grown up panda but I will miss the cozy moments in the den with you, the cutest panda baby ever, and your beautiful Mommy. Sleep tight Yun Zi! You are so loved.
Chuckling tonight while watching Bai Yun trying to settle Yun Zi for the night. He’s not having it – it’s PLAY time to him! So human-like.
#117 – AJ – I see several others have commented on the the NZ pandas. Regarding their exhibit area – the pandas seem to love roaming, exploring, climbing on old tree limbs etc. -from what I understand there is now huge $18 million dollar Fugi Asian Exhibit. The NZ is actually part of the Smithsonian & is federally funded. Their panda cams amaze me -somehow they manage to find where the panda is & zoom in. When Tai was a baby they somehow managed to capture every minute – I think maybe volunteers – I know there are hundreds of the FONZ ( Friends of the National Zoo)
There are several bloggers that know the zoo so would love their input.
Doxiemom – too sweet – our Yuni is on the move – thanks for capturing those moments we miss
I smiled when I read the keepers were training Yun ZI -then I rememered an izoofari chat from when Zhen Zhen was a tiny cub – the keeper told Debbie that when Bai was gone they would try to sit in the den & have the cub get used to their voice & their scent. Understand scent is most important to the pandas – training starts young at the SDZ
Even it means petting & cuddles – other important studies are being done 
Love the guest book idea – so many of us have seemed to help or understand what others are going through – somehow the love of the giant panda has brought us all together. How much do we know about our fellow bloggers
How much attention to we pay to what our fellow bloggers are saying. 
I had a quiz about my Red Hat Group after our 5th year of get togethers – it was sad that other than me knew anything at all about their fellow red hatters – soooo sad – thought we were all friends & knew our ups & downs
Thank you Bobbie Wood for the video. As I can’t come to the zoo to actually see the pandas, the videos are such a joy to watch. It gives us all a little glimpse of their personalities. Thanks again!
pandas=the best
PANDAS ROCK MY SOCKS! PANDAS ARE THE BEST, BETTER THAN THE REST
In response to #97 you might be seeing the noted debris on the camera lense that other people have been asking if Yun Zi had an extra black spot on his back depending on where he is laying in the den it also shows up smaller on Mom Bai Yun,and I don’t think it is Panda Scat,as the Moderator Jokingly said they would see if they could get Bai Yun to wipe the lense the next time she cleans out the den….I have a feeling that we won’t be seeing the Den Cam too much longer as the Prince of cuteness Yun Zi is becoming more mobile by the hour and Bai Yun will soon give up on the den and they’ll take up residence in her sleeping area and Yun Zi will take to the heights on the climbing structures and up the trees like his siblings before him….Being a Pandaholic is a fun addiction and kudos to the entire staff and meercats for the great improvements each birth has brought to better and clearer PandaCam coverage with each miracle cub born at SDZ….As a side note I read Lynn all the comments today about getting well all my worldwide Pandaholics have made and she thanks you all as she says Yun Zi has gotten her thru some tough times with pain the past several weeks and reading her the comments on our Aniversary today made up for being confined to a Hospital bed for 11 months,and I have promised her a belated dinner at the SDZ when she is allowed to travel…Again Thank You all for your kindness and concern about her….Dennis…
Moderator’s note: Happy Anniversary, Dennis and Lynn!
Thanks DoxieMom for posting the videos! I can’t believe he is walking so well already! Doesn’t it seem like he’s learned to walk sooner than other cubs? I just remember when Mei Lan was learning to walk and what a struggle it was, slip-sliding around on the concrete and never making any progess no matter how hard she tried! This little guy seems to have gotten the hang of walking very quickly. Now he’ll have something new to tweet about! Ha ha!! # 60 Carol, Loved the cartoon!
Hi! Finally got on the pandacam, got caught up reading blogs late tonite! Saw the pics and vids, too! Loved all of them! I watched the vids of Fu Long, and I did not know that his right foot had white toes! To me, that is such a rare abaration of panda coloration! It is also very cute because it looks like Fu Long had just one small sock on his foot and none on the other 3!! I’m glad that he made it to China in good shape.
I also watched the vids of the climbers–ZZ and Bai! Watched the one vid of ZZ climbing up and down that tree and got as high as she could get, then got down the tree very carefully! And, the pics of Yuni getting in and out of the den, and he was WALKING!! YEA!!! Been watching him off and on this whole week trying to walk when he was not asleep, and I figured that he would get the hang of it pretty quick. Look out, Bai! Your fun is just beginning with this little boy!
Love the idea of the pandafan guest book, too! Let us know when you have it up online, ok? I think I mentioned about watching the video of the naming ceremony and the cub’s exam. I loved it when Yuni waved his paw at everybody when one of the keepers was about to take him back to the den. That was sooo cute!! He didn’t make too many noises this time, tho. He was pretty relaxed thru the whole thing.
Was on the pandacam between 12:30 and 1am EST, and Bai & Yuni were in the den snuggling!
Back later! Going to bed!
Chari Mercier
St. Pete, FL
Meercats? I guess that’s the video staff. How did they get their name? I know we have to thank them for The BaiYunZi Show. I do. And all the staff and you bloggers, too. Mostly, thanks to Bai Yun. Mollie, thank you for the Flikr information. I found Nekomama also. Great pictures!
Moderator’ note: We used to have a group of volunteers called Meerkats. Some of them helped man the Panda Cam. Now we have a new volunteer program.
On this video on CCTV’s website (China Central Television) you can hear the reporter pronounce little Yun Zi’s name:
http://english.cctv.com/program/cctvnews/20091118/104332.shtml
Lovely videos DoxieMom. Things always happen when I’m asleep!
The Guest Book is a lovely idea.
#161 Moderator’s response about training is that the first step is to get Yun Zi “comfortable with his keepers”.
Does anyone else think this is code for hugging and petting and cuddling Yun Zi? I am SOOOOOOOOO jealous.
I missed the great escape yesterday. I was working, but did see him asleep up against the rim of the den and figured he must have been trying to get out and didn’t quite make it.
Happy Anniversary Dennis and Lynn. I am sending you a virtual cake and balloons and a bottle of the finist bubbly to toast your time together. How long has it been. I just celebrated 25yrs. I just don’t know were the time went but it was great. I wish that for you. #171- Lee, Debbie is one of the Moderators who did a very nice thing. Everyone is sleeping . Everyone have a wonderful weekend.
I also say thank you to DoxieMom … for the great video. I was watching the cam when Yun Zi made his first escape and Bai pulled him back inside but then I had other things to do so stopped watching. The video was a blessing! I wonder if the Keeper was in any danger from Bai, when helping Yun Zi back to his den? I suppose they closed a door somewhere? Just wondering. I also like the idea of a guest book.
Moderator’s note: Yes.
Maureen in Stanwood MI #174 – There are more than 100,000 FONZ, and 1000 FONZ volunteers. These numbers are from the 2007 annual report. When you go into the Panda House, there is a windowed room with a wall of monitors. We have gone into the Panda House thinking that Tai was in there, only to see him on one of the outside monitors.
There are four dens inside. Mei is in the middle one, which is a double den. She seems to like being up high. When we see her inside, she is usually on top of her “mountain”, and outside she’s usually sleeping on top of her grotto. On the cam, when you see a panda sleeping on his back inside a cave, that’s Tian.
If you see a panda close to a window with kids on the other side of the glass, that’s Tai.
The name fit this morning! Bai had our boy in the air on all 4 paws and there was a perfect shot of a fuzzy bright white butt (Cloud! ) high in the air! What a way to start my day!
OMG Wonderful videos, thanks Bobbie and DoxieMom, muchas gracias.
On a sadder note, did you all see that Fu Long went back to China this week…?
I am so glad we still have our ZZ with us.
#168 Shirley – Do you think that maybe humans are like bears at times? Maybe some videos of bears mothering their cubs could be shown regularly in parenting classes, which are often held for not-so-great parents. Perhaps there might be a mental “click” for these folks when they see a bear caring for its young, supposedly “instinctively,” but I am sure it isn’t all instinct.
Just wondering……
#181 Linda. Thanks for the link. I’m practicing saying the name correctishly. A nice thing about that story is that it begins with a shot of the red Fans sign at the ceremony. Moderators have made us internationally famous! Since I was only there “virtually,” I was happy to see I have lost ten pounds
#169 Liana…I went to your facebook page but was unable to see your pictures. It says only certain people may see your info. Do I make you a friend in order to see them? Not that I mind, I just thought you might. Maybe I am doing something wrong, but I could not get past the first facebook page with your picture and some of your friends. No “photo” links or any links. Am I doing something wrong?
Hey if animals belong to the WORLD, why do we have to give a Panda back. Can’t we have one or two? Seems like we treat them pretty good, but I guess everything deserves to be wild. I don’t know I think we should be able to have some Pandas, just because there are ONLY found in a particular place…..I’m not sure I get it.
Looks like the Boo is getting so thin in the den that there is NO traction, maybe this can build tummy muscles, but it sure looks frustrating when Yunior keeps wobbley rolly poly tippy over weeeee ” I just cant get anywhere !” I can hardly wait until Bai puts him on some grass or something like ground…..
Just turned on Panda Cam in time to watch Yun Zi climb out of the den and roll off the door-sill into the sunroom.
Has anyone noticed that the webcam at the NZ is not working I think it happen Friday. I miss not seeing it I like to watch all the pandas on Daniel’s webcam you can see what going on at all the zoo at the same time.
He did it! He did it! Yun Zi just walked one painfully slow step after another around the den. He got to the door and it took a few tries, his mother didn’t notice, and eventually he figured out that if he did his back legs one at a time, he could pull the fourth leg over.
HE DID IT!
Well, it was a short trip. Mother and son are back in the den.
Oh, how sweet! Bai is sitting up in the den with Yun Zi, who is examining and smelling her back right paw!
YZ~”My, what big feet you have, Mommy!”
BY~”The better for climbing, Dear…”
YZ~”My, what smelly feet you have, Mommy!”
BY~”The better for leaving trails so you can find me, Dearest…”
YZ~”My, how tall your feet are for crawling over!”
BY~”Yes, Dear…(snicker)”
Yun Zi was sitting at the edge of his den and it looked like he was checking out his reflection. I can’t really tell how the den is constructed but the wall on the opening to the outside looks shiny enough to support a reflection. I could see it and he was staring at it and nosing it. Really cute if he was doing what I think he was doing.
Bai Yun just took Yun Zi out of the area again????
Where did they go????
Where did chubby cubbie (aka Yun Zi) go. 5:45pm est and the baby is missing. He will always be chubby cubbie to me !
Oh where, oh where is my little Yun Zi?
Oh where, oh where can he be?
Dear Mama Bai Yun, bring back my sweet pea,
Come back, come back my Chunky…
Yun Zi aka Chunky: Hello Honey, I’m home!
Linda #181 Thank you for posting the Chinese web site…..and it sounded like she said Yun Zoo…
No one says it the same!
I don’t understand why Bai Yun took him to the far dirt yard today, took him all over and then keeps putting him back in the den when he tries to leave it. Is she trying to find a safer place to put him??
Brenda 14
Our little Yun Zi has sat up by himself and I was lucky enough to see it. Be patient with me, I will try to find the picture and I will post it for you.
Dennis & Lynn Carney NJ 15
Congratulations on your anniversary and many more!
Widget 108
My head and heart are often in two different places do don’t worry about it. I was crying my eyes out when I read your story about Mei Sheng an Su Lin.
Dear Moderator,
Thanks for saving my virtual seat, I got to see you in yours!!
Dear Tami Michaud,
And I love your idea of us “forever friends” meeting at the zoo before the crowds all go there. What could be better than to all be together just to gaze upon our beautiful Bai Yun and her incredible son Yun Zi?
I am so sorry you got hurt on your trip and thank God for your doctors at home on Friday morning. I hope you are feeling all well now and take care of yourself. Your family cares about you.
Dear Liana in San Diego,
Thank you so much for your beautiful and descriptive account of the day. You make those of us who had “virtual” seats feel like we were right there with you. Your pictures were great, it was very kind of you to share. Thanks
Dear DoxieMom,
As usual, you never let us down. Thanks for the wonderful video. Love and HUGS!
Dear Moderator,
Please thank EVERYONE who had a part in making “naming day” such an incredible day, one that will never be forgotten. Thanks again for saving me a virtual seat and consider yourself thanked and hugged from my heart.
Moderator’s note: On behalf of those involved in preparing the naming ceremony, you are very welcome!
#174 Maureen
Here is a link to the NZ Fuji Film Giant Panda Habitat (with map of the exhibit). If you scroll down the page you will see the description/map and a link to the Asia Trail exhibit info. Sorry–I don’t know how to post a link that you just click on to get there!!!
http://nationalzoo.si.edu/Animals/GiantPandas/PandaExhibit/default.cfm
OMG!! i just saw the panda cam with yun zi and Bai yun in the den on Nov. 21, and it looked like she was ROLLING over yun zi ! it also looked like she was pushing him to the wall!
It’s 5:30 Saturday evening. WHAT is Bai doing?? It looks like she is standing on her head, next to Yun Zi and just staying in that position! It’s been several minutes, and she is still like that. Her face is near Yun and the rest of her body is straight up!
Moderator – can someone please explain this? In all the time I’ve been watching pandas (since Tai was born) I have never seen this position – at least not in a confined space!
A little while ago, there was a lovely den collage of Yun Zi, bamboo and Bai Yun. Now there is one of Yun Zi, bamboo stalk and leaf. So simple and so beautiful.
I just tuned into the Panda Cam, and there is a long, large stick of bamboo inside the den. Did Bai Yun bring that in? It is just strange to see that inside the den with Yun Zi still inside!
Just signed on to the cam at 6:05 p.m. SD time. I see a LONG and THICK bamboo stem laying across the den, effectively cutting it into two pieces. Bai must have dragged that in (who else?). Yunior is sleeping on one side of it. When he wakes up, he’ll discover his space has been cut in half. I’m not sure he can negotiate his way over that bamboo – it will be interesting to see how he manages, and to see what Bai will eventually do with it. The fun never stops in Panda Canyon!
#186 – Jeri – thanks for putting the NZ panda exhibit in perspective
When watching their panda cams I usually assume cam 1 is Mei – as it’s a panda on hanging their head over the mountain top. 
If I see a panda curled up on the grate next to glass exhibit I know that’s Tai – have watched many kids reach out to try & touch him ( I would be one of “so called kids” reaching out !!). If I see a panda roaming & romping in the exhibit I also assume that’s Tai. I know there are ways to tell a panda by their markings but I’ve never figured that out & they are hard to see on the cams. So I’m happy watching whatever panda I see.
#207 – Laurie in Baltimore – thanks for your info also – I recall when the NZ posted some info about their new Asian Trail Exhibit but the site you gave had much more info
And to Lynn & Dennis – Happy Anniversary – our wish is for your wife to see the SDZ pandas in person
# 205 – Jeslyn in San Diego – funny how we all hear the name differently – thought I heard Yun Zuh. And unless we speak Chinese most of us will have a nick name when telling our friends. Mine is already Yuni
On the German website of the Zoo in Vienna, there is an update about Fu Long. After a long journey, Fu Long arrived in Bifengxia on Friday 10 AM local time. A big welcome party was given in his honor. He will be in quarantine for 30 days but he was allowed outside and took the opportunity to climb up a tree. He seems to enjoy his bamboo while sitting next to his keeper, Eveline Dungl.
At nightg, I put my laptop on the coffee table, sit on the floor next to it so I can watch SDZ and Chiang side by side. Munchie, my LONG haired kitty insists on walking on my keyboard!
I still want to be a Meerkat. In watching His Royal Cuteness, he reminds me a human baby so often. The way he stretches, yawns, and squirms. So endearing.
I’m still amazed as I watch the Panda Prince Yun Zi on his side feet flying until he hits some bamboo for traction and casually walks away almost saying I planned that all along…As a follow-up,Lynn is undergoing some very painful tests today and as I’m setting up our new apartment for her hopeful release within a week or so, we’ve been talking on the telephone trying to figure how soon before Yun Zi takes to the trees and goes on public display….Again I thank everybody for their warm wishes on Lynn’s Health and our Aniversary as she now knows that she will more than likely be confined to a wheelchair as 11 monthes in a Hospital bed have taken their toll and she won’t be able to walk for awhile…An answer to : Brandy NY #184 Many Thanks it was our 24th.Also Thank-Yous to : Lee from San Francisco #171 ,Phyllis # 206,and others in previous Blogs….And again Many Thanks Moderator as this just shows how a little miracle of nature can bring a whole world of people together in a common cause….Pandaholics United who needs the UN ? Maybe they should just feed the UN Assembly Pandacam for a day or so……
I have some info that might help…Pam T.#196..I received a text message from the NZ stating that all Web sites will be down for some data center TLC all weekend. I hope this helps and they will be fixed by Monday hopefully. #209 Laurie G. I have seen Bai Yun in this position when she was doing a somersault. Sometimes she completes the act, and other times she does the head tuck, and part of the roll but not all of it. So, there she is upside down, sitting on her head, with her legs stretching up the den wall. Almost like a big, black and white carrot!
In such a small, confined space, it looks hilarious. I wonder what YunZi thinks when his mom does that! I guess as long as he can reach his breakfast, lunch or dinner, he could care less what position she’s in.
Linda #181: Thanks for the link to the Chinese News station. I finally got a clear sound on the name.
Also, Maureen, thanks for reminding me of the Mei & Tai video. I still think he has been the most comedic cub, with his boyish curiosity, athletic stunts, and overall peskiness to his mom. How many times did we see him fall out of trees, roll down the hill, splash himself with his paw in his pool? When he has to leave I will be in a puddle of tears. (Wish they would tell me when!)
LONG LIVE PFF!
Maureen #214: You wrote it like I was trying to say it, but I couldn’t relate the sound to the u. You did it for me with the h. Like, duh?
Also, the yards at the NZ look really big to me. I was there earlier this year, and they are much larger than they appear on the cams. The Panda House was closed when we were there, as they were waiting to see if Mei was pregnant, and they were keeping her off exhibit. I know the panda cams are manned by volunteers during the day, but I don’t know if they are manned at all at night, unless there is a keeper there overnight. The cams are never moved at night, but stay on. Sometimes you might see a bear wandering, usually Tian Tian.
Hope you have all had a great weekend. We got some more MUCH NEEDED rain.
OH! Maureen, I read every entry on the blog when I do manage to get on the site. Can’t say that I know much about all you gals and guys, but I do know that we are all emotionally involved with a certain black and white species of bear. And a lot of us are passionate about all animals, domestic or wild. And because of that, I can safely say we are all pretty dang good people!
Here is a CCTV 9 video news clip about Fu Long’ s return to China.
http://english.cctv.com/program/worldwidewatch/20091119/104845.shtml
Yun Zi is also shown briefly in this video to emphasize that all cubs born outside of China are to be sent to their ancestral home. Kleenex, please…
A mama and a cub are shown at the end; are these pandas, Bai Yun and Zhen Zhen???
NZ said they are in the process of scheduled maintenance / testing, and that the cams should be up and running by noon EST today (Sunday) – 9 a.m. PST time. Thus we won’t need to go through partial panda withdrawal. You can’t tell which panda you are viewing by noting Cam 1 or Cam 2. Any of the three could be on either one. When the cam is back online, I can give you more information about using screen info to determine which panda you are viewing.
#181 Linda -I enjoyed listening to this reporter. Thanks for the link.
Like everyone else, I’ve been practicing the pronunciation aloud. Perhaps we are all hearing / describing the sound differently because it is not our native language, and we don’t have that exact sound in our phonic system.
Love the idea of a guestbook. I’ve been mentally noting when I see other bloggers from Pennsylvania. It would also be interesting to learn a little about different parts of the country while blogging.
The NZ site describes fast ways of telling them apart, although now that Tai has grown, it’s a little trickier.
Tian has ‘knee-highs’ for his back stockings. His eyepatches are slanted.
Mei has ‘thigh-highs’, her eye patches are sort of rounded diamond shapes.
Tai’s stockings are sort of in-between. His eye patches are rounded diamond shapes.
Well, sometimes insomnia is rewarded. Bai is cuddling Yunior. My question is about panda poop. Since the den is clean, I am wondering if Yun Zi does not yet pee and poo on his own. (I’d use medical terms, but he is just too cute!) If so, when Bai Yun is vigorously licking him is she still cleaning him inside and out?
Moderator’s note: Your question has been forwarded to our Panda Team.
In my observations, panda mothers are both proud and disgusted when their offspring start walking. Proud because the cubs are learning what they should learn and disgusted because from that moment forward the mothers seem to know that (until weaning) they will not have a minutes peace again.
Panda mothers, after all, protect their cubs. When the little imps get moving, the mom’s have yet more work to do.
Debi #199: Very good! Funny what comes into your brain when you sit and watch the interaction of this particular mom and child.
Moderator: The guest book is a great idea! I’ll share.
Hi,
For the panda friend who asked, the Singapore Zoo is getting a pair of panda cubs in 2011 for a loan period of 10 years. The male is now 2 years old and the female is one. The male is named Wu Jia (Valiant and Outstanding) and the female is Hu Bao (Shanghai’s Treasure). However they will be re-named. Confusing for them, won’t it? And a Naming Competition is in the works. In the article on the pandas, it was mentioned tt SDZ had an online poll and His Royal Cuteness Yun Zi got a mention as well as Her Majesty Mama Panda Bai Yun.
Am so looking forward to the pair. Have seen Chuang Chuang and Ling Hui, though I missed Ling Pin.
i would cry if someday Gao and Bai left Sandiego zoo and back to China, they will be send to the zoo for exhibit, even at old age. their life would be completely different from the life in Sandiego zoo where they are loved and cared so well. could you please have Gao and Bai stay Sandiego zoo for life;
Watching the sleeping Bai Yun funny belly I noticed that she is breathing profoundly and three times slower than me – not only cute Panda, but quiet…
Heads up!
Baby’s awake and it looks like he’s headed for the door. Bai still slumbering soundly.
——————
We need an alarm system on this blog!
Stand down. Mama woke up and is now applying the morning ablutions.
If all goes as expected, baby will be sound asleep again in no time!
I have been a bit disappointed because there was no action. But yesterday and this morn made up for it. # 200 Carol. I too saw the reflection thing yesterday. They had a wonderful and long play session. Bai left and Zi went to the entrance bobbed back and forth then noticed his reflection. It was a sight to watch him investigate. I’m sure he believed it was another cub. But he held his curiosity. Then lost it and left the den. In search for Ma Ma no doubt. This morning @ 6:00 SDZ time I tuned in and the play had begun. Bai standing on her head while touching Zi. But I have seen her do this before. One time when she stood on her head she totally blocked the camera with her butt. This has gone on for a long while now. They just can’t get enough of each other. Bai left and Zi played with Bamboo stick. Bai came back with more and housekeeping began. I believe this went on for about an hour and half. Great sight.
Anastasia, thank you so much for a wonderful story of our panda girls. All you panda bloggers made so many efforts with links, videos etc. and I had so much joy and fun that I not only want to thank you but address you personally (I hope that I have not overlooked anyone, otherwise please forgive me.)
#18 Melissa, thanks for drawing our attention to Adelaide Zoo. What a rare picture of Mei Sheng. #31 Dennis & Lynn Carney, thanks for pointing out the naming ceremony video and happy anniversary and all the best for you, Lynn, speedy recovery! #34 Page, the pandas on parade were wonderful! #37 IHN from Asia, I just loved the video of Fu Long climbing the trees. #49 Fonsia and #50 Danielle, I was very moved when watching the video of Fu Long’s life in Vienna with the lovely music. #52/53 Chari Mercier, nice conversation between Su Lin and Zhen Zhen, I like the nickname Yuni, much easier to pronounce. #60 and moderator, what a sweet cartoon. #61 Mollie, wonderful photos and slide show of Bai and Zhen in the trees. #62 Bobbie Wood, thank you for the description of SDZ and the naming ceremony, I felt like being there! Super video of Zhen Zhen! #78 Tiny and #89 Jeri, thank you for showing us Bai Yun’s mom. # 108 Widget and #113 Danielle I am also very, very sad and shed a few tears when thinking of Fu Long not being in Vienna any more.#144 Doxie, lots of marvellous videos, the one out of den was so beautiful, thanks again. #169 Liana, loved your facebook photos. #181 Linda, thanks for the pronounciation of Yun Zi, not easy, I also heard Yoon Zeh. I guess I’m gonna stick to Yuni!
About the reporter who was pronouncing Yun Zi’s name on TV, I heard it as “oonzeh,” kind of all one word and spoken quickly.
There is nothing wrong with pronouncing it the way we see it…whether it be an English pronounciation or a Chinese pronounciation. I have a Chinese friend I could ask about this, but she is only five years old, adopted from China at age three, and she is learning to speak English the way we do!
One thing I love dearly about American in particular and the rest of the world in general is the variety of languages and especially “accents.” Isn’t it amazing that in a city like New York there are so many distinct accents and dialogues! Wouldn’t it be boring if we all spoke “TV English?”
In Honour of Fu Long
When waking up Nov. 18th
I knew immediately it means
That Fu Long leaves Vienna Zoo
Where he and Mom ate lots of boo.
Where Yang Yang cared for her first child
As she would do, too, in the wild.
Where she san g her last lullabye
To little Fu to say good bye.
Today I’m feeling very sad.
That Fu Long has to go, that’s bad.
He gave so many people joy,
This cuddly, white-toed panda boy.
He will depart for China and
Will settle in ancestors’ land.
After becoming friends with peers
No longer will be shed some tears.
He even might then meet Mei Sheng
Residing, too now in Bifeng.
Or also sister Hua Mei
To SDZ she said good bye.
When older he will have to date
Some ladies and will have to mate.
He even might meet SDZ’s ladies,
Produce with them a lot of babies.
With all their parents’ marvelous genes
We all know that it only means
Their kids becoming beautiful,
Based on unique panda gene pool.
For me this is some consolation.
There will be more than one occasion
When I shall hear from sweet Fu Long
That he in China found his home.
Thank you for letting us watch the Teddies There so beautiful. So much to learn about all those simple bare necessities:))
My serious question please. When you take Little one for an exam. Is it quite scary because you always have it in your mind mum would come charging in or do you have quite a good system with the doors to keep her out the way. Dose mum know The cub is away? Can she smell humans on her do you suppose?
Janet
Moderator’s note: Bai Yun is always safely occupied in another room during the exam. And she knows the routine and can no doubt smell that her cub has been in contact with the staff.
I seem to have taken to calling the cub “Zi Zi”, sounding like “Zeh, Zeh”, because I think it won’t be long before he is all “Zi Zi Zoooooom” everywhere! But when I say his full name I cheat. Yoon Zeeeee!
#217 Dennis & Lynne – I hope Lynne’s tests weren’t too painful for her. She must be so looking forward to seeing the Pandas in person. Good luck to you both.
#227 Pandanuts, couldn’t agree more.
# 220 Lee from San Francisco, No the last pictures are from Lun Lun and one of her cubs in Atlanta, I am not sure if it is Mei Lan or Xi Lan. The surface of the indoor enclosures in Atlanta is quite different from other US zoos. A new video has been posted on Pandas Live On website; it is a translation of an ORD news report. You can also watch it on YouTube “Fu Long’s Journey to China, Part 2” posted by Blueherun http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F4k9WCdb9uY&feature=player_embedded#
For those of you who don’t know, 50 kg corresponds to 110 lbs. It is Fu Long’s weight and the amount of bamboos that he was travelling with. Wouldn’t that be hard if we had to eat our weight in food every day, imagine having to carry all that from the grocery store…
Can you guys make a place for us to ask questions? I have a ton!
Moderator’s note: This is the place, but read previous blog posts and comments, as you may find the answers to some of your questions there.
Hi! Hope everyone is enjoying this weekend before the big Thanksgiving week coming up! I know that everybody is busy with planning turkey dinners and family coming over. We are down here!
Been on the pandacam a couple of times today and last nite. Watched Bai do some cleanup and spinning her cub around late last nite. Today, the first cam watch was Yuni all curled up napping in the den, the 2nd cam watch was Yuni getting his milk lunch from his mom! All fun to watch!
Not much going on here. I did see the link about Fu Long’s arrival to China, and I’ll be watching that later. Thanks for the link to that video, Lee (San Francisco)!
Well, gonna go for awhile. Got some things to do, but will be back later to check out the pandacam again.
Chari Mercier
St. Pete, FL
Here is a story about Yun Zi (Babybottoms) and Bai Yun.
Bai Yun
Yun Zi
Yun Zi :Hope momma will let me out this time.
I just wanted to walk around the sun room and garden room. Not fair but fine. 
Bai Yun:Oh boy Yunny get back inside!
Yun Zi:but why momma
Bai Yun:well because i need to watch you, and i only make you stay inside when i am not watching you.
Yun Zi:fine momma.
Bai Yun:good baby bye see you later, got to go eat my boo.
Yun Zi:Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzz walk walk i will just walk around the den then.
Bai Yun:good you can do that.
Yesterday I saw Bai Yun bring in the den a huge piece of boo! And i also saw her eating her boo so cute!!
And a while ago they were in a place that looked like they were in a star trek show!! 
He kicks and wiggles!
It is so funny when she cleans him.
Bai Yun:Ah cleaning time. Oh boy what am i going to do?? Oh i guess i will just put up with getting kicked.
I got to take a bite of some boo! 
Yun Zi: hey mom i don’t like it either so why don’t you just not clean me???
Bai Yun:No you need to be clean, even if it means being kicked in the face!!!!
Yun Zi: (walk walk walk) ha ha ha you can’t catch me! Try to clean me now!!
Bai Yun: (flip flip flip rrrrr) get back here!! Wa la i got you!! (CLEAN CLEAN)!!!!
Yun Zi: AHHHHHH i just can’t put up with this!!! Kick kick kick kick whhhh!!
Bai Yun:owh my nose oh boy!!
Yun Zi: yaaa i won!! Next i will try the Bite Bai move!! Yaah !! walk walk i will walk and hide from mom some where in Bai’s house. 8)
Bai Yun
Zhen Zhen
Bai Yun: so what’s up Zhen??
Zhen Zhen: nothing just climbing and eating boo, how about you?
Bai Yun: oh just having to put up with baby bottoms and his kicking while i clean him.
Zhen Zhen:oh yes i remember the days i had to go through that very same thing.
Bai Yun: oh yes but i am glad i don’t have to do that to you.
Zhen Zhen:It will be so cool when he makes his dayview.
I’ve just been sitting here laughing while watching the “fight” going on between Mommy Bai and Yun Zi. Evidently, Yun wanted to stay outside longer and after Bai brought him back to the den, he started to toddle right back out the door! She pulled him back and tried to get him settled for a nap. Yun Zi then proceeded to hit her with his front paws and kick her with his back feet, trying to squirm away. It actually looks like Bai has given up and is letting him have his way.
8)
;D Yun Zi is >:( when Bai Yun cleans him. :p Yun Zi :’( when she cleans him!!
Boy today has been filled with lots of action. I tuned back in @ 11:00- SDZ time and Bai had YunZi outside. She was sitting and holding him. I don’t know how long they were out there .The Cam said #38. I didn’t reconize the area but was very sunny. Does anyone know? Then she picked him up and brought him back to the den. He nursed abit and the play began again. It was really cool because the camera person lowered the camera and you had a straight in the face view. I felt like I was sitting right there with them. Bai was laying down with her back to the door where Zi was sitting. But not for long. He headed out and she just knew even though she couldn’t see him and stretched her arm over her shoulder and pulled him in. He made at least 6 attempts and by his tush she pulled him back with her mouth. But this went on for over an hour. He then feel asleep.
I say Yun (like the cun sound in cunning) Zi (like the sound of tea). why did Bai put a ‘boo pole in the den? My mom and I said that it was to separate Yun Zi’s side of the den and Bai’s side of the den.
Just checked the NZ website today, and the whole entire website is back online, and both of the pandacams are up and running! YEA!!! Looks like all 3 pandas are indoors today relaxing, playing, eating, napping. Just thought I would update you all about the website.
BYE!!
Chari Mercier
St. Pete, FL
How good to see the NZP cams back up! . . . was beginning to have withdrawal symptoms.
Thanks, Maureen, for the tip to revisit “Tai Shan vs Mommy: Da Battle of Da Twee.” Mei had every right to swat Tai right out of the tree, but she didn’t. Bai, Mei, and Lun have been such wonderful mothers.
My vote for a nickname for Yun Zi is Yuni. It’s really growing on me.
Has Yun Zi made it past the threshold of the den on his own yet? Saw him move towards it twice around noon and Bai Yun pulled him back both times.
Hi, again! Just checked out my 2 favorite animal websites, Zooborns and Pandas Live On. On Zooborns, they did have a comment, pic, and video of Yun Zi, mainly talking about Yun Zi getting his new name this past week. On Pandas Live On, they also have a couple of pics and vids of Yun Zi and a statement about his new name, also. There are other great articles, pics, and vids of other pandas as well. There’s a big chunk on the first page about Fu Long’s trip to China with a couple of videos from ORF TV, Austria, that have English translations to them. The Vienna Zoo did say that Fu Long’s parents will be staying at the zoo until 2013, and hoping for another panda cub soon. Fu Long will be headed to Bifengxia. There’s another article about pandas in general with a great pic of Hua Mei with it! That’s the latest that PLO has put on their website to date. So, check them out! Have hankys ready when you watch Fu Long, tho! Also found out on PLO that Adelaide Zoo will be getting Wang Wang and Funi very soon, and they are hoping to have them on exhibit around Dec. 13 or 18, 2009 (forgot which date, but it’s in that time frame). The Aussies and Adelaide Zoo can’t wait to be a part of the pandafan family in Australia!
That’s all of the panda news for now. Can’t wait for Animal Planet to announce their Hero of the Year on Dec. 18, and still keeping my fingers crossed for Suzanne Braden!
Chari Mercier
St. Pete, FL
Thanks, Widget #218 for the info regarding Bai Yun’s headstand. I guess I’ve just missed it before, but at least you have reassured me that I am not crazy!
Thanks to Doxiemom too, for the posting of the great escape. I had not actually seen Yun Zi move TO somewhere before and so was delighted that he has gotten to this stage!
Thank you all so much for the kind comments on the 2 Friday videos. Here is another! On Saturday Bai kept taking Yun Zi from the den, and the volunteers worked hard to follow them. For the first time since I’ve been watching, Bai took Yun Zi to the Garden Room AND let him crawl around a bit on the floor! He also spent some time in the sunroom. Also included is the charming scene of Yun Zi playing in the doorway, perhaps seeing his reflection? Hope you enjoy “Yun Zi Visits the Garden Room (and other scenes)”. The link is:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6kUaJ1dIZtg
Since Bai Yun isn’t in view and Yun Zi is resting, I’ll provide those who asked with some observations about NZ. There are multiple cameras in each enclosure, both inside and out. The cam operator has a booth next to the inside enclosures. When visiting in person, you can see the operator through a tinted glass wall. While 2 cams are viewable online, the operator is watching many screens at any given time and deciding which to show online – no different from SDZ, I assume.
There are 3 yards outside and 4 enclosures inside. This post only refers to the inside enclosures. Usually the connecting door between the center 2 is open, providing Mei with access to both. You can see the rocks / mountains in both, and they are up against the back wall. She likes to climb up there and eat her boo. I may not have all possibilities included here, but if see # 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, you are watching Mei.
If you see the rocks/mountains narrow in front, not touching the side, wider near the back but with a space between them and back wall, you are seeing the left enclosure, usually 1, 2, 3, 4. It should be Tian.
The right enclosure has rocks/mountains attached to the right wall – #37, 38, 39, 40. Tai should be here.
I say should be, because I have been focusing more on SDZ since the birth of yunior, and they do sometimes switch. When I have watched NZ pandas, they haven’t been in position enough to see how high their socks / stockings go, and I’m still not sure about the eye patches, despite everyone’s comments. Usually I can recognize Mei’s face. Last April Tai was in the left inside enclosure and Tian was in the right, but I’m assuming since they switched outside, they also switched inside.
Feel free to add any additions or corrections to my NZ comments. I’m sure some of you have been there since I have.
Of course it’s still oodles of fun watching any panda, even if we aren’t sure which one we’re watching. Thanks again to the meerkats at all the zoos for affording us these opportunities.
Me again…I have another weekend video for y’all! On Sunday Bai Yun took Yun Zi to the classroom area to nurse him – a first since I’ve been watching! They also spent a lot of time in the den together, with Yun Zi very intent on getting to the doorway – but Bai kept pulling him back – almost like a game! This video “Yun Zi Visits the Classroom (and other scenes)” is filled with precious moments between mother and son. The link is:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_SklpdAcR7g
For those of you that couldn’t access the Facebook posting that I made, I opened a new account at Picasa web albums.
Here is the link. There are 25 photos uploaded there, most with captions. Enjoy!
http://tinyurl.com/PandaCeremony
Moderator,
Do you know if a November wallpaper of Yun Zi will be released soon?
Moderator’s note: I’ll find out.
Just watched Prince Yun Zi sit up and scratch behind his left ear with his left rear leg and then decided to nibble on his left rear foot before gravity won out and he fell over onto his back only to sit up again….Bet Bai Yun is going to have her paws full with Yunior as Lynn and I wonder how long she tolerates him and his wild ways as we’ve seen her reach her breaking point with Lin Lin and ZZ Top before she gave them a good Motherly Reprimand….LOL…..We remembered the startled looks on both the girls when they realized Bulldozer Bai Yun wanted them to stop misbehaving….Oh well from squirm to crawling to walking and now sitting up like Budha Bear I guess the sky is next with his soon to be high wire act up whatever tree barrier he can learn to bypass like his siblings before him…Enjoy his antics as he is growing up quickly in front of all the old time and neophyte Pandaholics now all around the world….The United Pandaholics Worldwide initiative has started…..The Prince is becoming the Peace Panda as his fanbase expands….
To our Pandaholic Family and SDZ Friends , Lynn is feeling a little bit better today and, we hope she will be coming home soon as after 11 monthes in the Hospital she is looking forward to being home for the Holiday Season….Thank-You everybody for your kind words of care as we are all one giant Pandaholic Worldwide Family which has grown from the SDZ and its exemplenary Work in breeding this and other endangered species of wildlife,as well as other Zoos…It’s a shame that some animal species now only exist in Zoos and Wildlife Preserves and no longer live in the wild……..Keep the Panda Faith as we can save all the wildlife by simply speaking to others and let them see the wonder of Yun Zi as he is Infectious almost to the point of Beetlemania I guess we Pandaholics are catching and spreading Pandamania in an Epidemic Worldwide as we spread the word on the wonder on Pandacam Yun Zi !!!
I was watching mom and baby this afternoon, it wa so funny. Bai did take baby out to a room that I did not recognize. Was it the garden room? She quickly brought him back but he was up then. It was so cute to watch him keep trying to get back outside while Bai would let him get to the door and pull him back in. He was determined though. She wanted a nap, but he wanted out. Obviously, mom won the battle after awhile and they fell asleep. It was so adorable. Thanks for the great camera shots of all of this. I cannot wait to see cubbies next exam. He is getting so big and mobile. He is staying up for longer periods of time. It will be fun to watch once he gets out and about. They are sleeping so cute now, getting crowded in the den…..
#233 – Lilarose in Oregon – your comments about accents made me laugh – I was born in Concord NH (that’s Concod -no R
When we moved to PA when I was 12 I was laughed at & the butt of many jokes as PA dialect is the HARD R’S – in New Hampshire we say “paak the cah on the conah” – WHAT A SHOCK AT age 12 TO FIND in Pa THEY SAY we paRRRRk the caRRRRR on the coRRRRneRRRR “yep, that is park the car on the corner 
And yes a Boston accent is even worse 
Plus it’s not only the dialect it’s the terms for many items – in NH a “tonic” meant a soft drink (like a coke) – in PA tonic is quine water (for a gin & tonic) & here in MI we say “git” for “get” and after 26 years here in Mich. I hear myself saying “git” and hate it 
But all panda fans have the same language – panda love
I just watched the video of our boy getting out of the den and Bai taking him away. Then the keeper put him back in the den. I am curious why they did that. Did they think Bai forgot about him and would not go back to him? How long was he alone out there? Bai Yun is such a great mother I find it hard to believe that she would forget about him out there…
Moderator’s note: We have a blog post coming that will answer your question.
#234 – Ruth – sob, sob, wonderful tribute to your wonderful handful Fulong – do hope he is coping without his mom – but at least he has his favorite keeper for a time
#252 – pandafan – thanks for all the info about the NZ exhibits & which panda we are seeing.
Doxiemom – wow – Yuni is on the move & momma Bai has her paws full already – she is not going to have much time to herself now.
Seems like male pandas are more of a pawful than females – we’ll see 
To those who thought that Yuni was slower in developing than other pandas stand back – he is now on the move
Thanks, DoxieMom #253 for your videos of Yun Zi’s excellent outside adventures and Liana #254 for your pictures.
Widget #218 and Laura #250–Bai was just doing some Bai Yoga–notice she does all kinds of stretches while she’s sleeping in the den. She’s got to stay in shape to keep up with her cubs, after all.
New letter from Zhen Zhen to Yun Zi:
Dear little brother Yun Zi,
Wow! You have a name! You’re growing up really fast!
By now, you’re probably playing the “trying to sneak out of the den while Mom isn’t looking” game, and you’ve probably noticed that in addition to being really really BIG, Mom is really really FAST! I don’t know how she does it, but just when you think you’ve made it out, swoosh! you’re back in the den and you have to start all over again, and then swoosh! you’re back in the den and you have to start all over again, and then swoosh! you’re back in the den and you have to start all over again, and then it’s time for a nap!
Well, pretty soon, you’ll get to start climbing trees, and then the real fun will begin! Mom doesn’t usually climb trees, (although I bet she could if she really wanted to) and you can get a couple of non-bath hours to yourself!
I’m glad you have a Z in your name!
I have TWO Z’s in MY name!!!!!!
Love,
Your BIG sister,
Zhen Zhen
DoxieMom, thanks for the videos of Bai and Yun Zi in the Garden and Classroom. Now I’ve caught up with everything that’s been happening and that lot’s of others have seen. He is such a cutie-pie and his Mum is so very patient.
#238 Danielle, NY – thanks for the info and the video link. It is hard to tell the pandas apart. One thing is for sure, they are all so beautiful.
#254 Liana in San Diego – Nice photos; was able to download Yun Zi’s and print it. He is so adorable!
Earlier, someone mentioned having insomnia, and this being a good way to spend a sleepless night. Well, that’s me tonight. But I finally got caught up with my emails!
This goes double for the SDZ keepers, vets and all staff. Give our precious bears some extra treats to thank them for being so lovable.
DoxieMom, I have thoroughly enjoyed the videos you provide through links. Being retired, I don’t have the benefit of sitting at a computer all day, so the videos are a good way to see what you all talk about. In the video of Saturday (21st), I watch Bai Yun look straight up several times. Then, she began reaching for something at the top of the den, even standing up twice to reach something. Anyone have an idea what that was about? Maybe she’s done it before, and I just haven’t noticed. I also have become aware of how precocious our little Yunior has become. And how adept Mom has become in pulling him back in the den, without even having to look. She just blindly reaches over her head and grabs hair, or a leg! LOL! These will definitely become popular in the “precious times” videos, later on.
I hope everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving, full of love and family warmth. And if you have to travel, please take care. We want to see you back here with us.
YZ: (whispering softly) Mama? Mama? Oh good, she is sound asleep. Now to escape to the garden room…
[Mama's paw extends over her head and grabs YZ.]
YZ: What was that?
BY: My Over the Shoulder Block, perfected after 4 cubs…go back to bed, Son of Cloud…
[Gentle snoring from Mama, another quick dash by YZ. A back leg swings into place to block the exit.]
YZ: MAMA!
BY: Just my Swinging Back Defensive Stance, ahem, my personal favourite move, because the cubby monsters, I !mean, the cute cubbies never expect this one…go back to bed, Son of Gao Gao…
YZ: (under his breath) Bad bad Mommie Monster….
BY: WHAT were you saying young man?
YZ: I was saying you must know Auntie Lun Lun in Atlanta…
BY: Of course, and go back to sleep before I try her Dragging and Wiping the Floor Posture with you!
YZ: Yikes, yes, Mommie Monster!
BY: What’s that? Come here, young panda cub…
[Takes him and rolls him on her back paws.]
YZ: I am getting dwizzy, Mama, hee hee, your claws tickle, stop, Mama…
BY: Dearest, will you now rest?
YZ: Yes, Mama…(drops of Zzzzzzzland.]
BY: And yes, Super Mommy Panda lives to fight another day, thanks to the United Worldwide Network of Mommy Pandas for their useful website on “How to Handle the New Cub”….and I must finish my blog tomorrow on “Stop at 5 or 6, the ideal size for a Panda Family.”
Yun Zi is getting so big that the den phase can’t go on much longer. It is really tight in the den when he and Bai Yun are sprawled out on their sides sleeping next to each other. So cute. Enjoy while you can, the tree phase is coming quickly as soon as he can get up and walk to a tree to climb.
#49 Fonsia Thank you so much for posting the link to the Fu Long retrospective. It brought tears to my eyes.
To Ruth #234: What a beautiful tribute to Fulong!
To: Britney #241: I love your conversations
To Doxiemom # 251 and 253: Gosh I loved all the Yun Zi Adventure videos!!!
I really think that Momma Bai is taking Yunior in and out so often because she is teaching him new parameters about how far he can go
Even when she pulls him in back from the edge of the doorway, I think she’s letting him test her and, of course, that is training 
I would wager that by Thanksgiving Bai will ‘allow’ Yun Zi the complete freedom of the bedroom! ‘Takers’ anyone? 
#226 Lucilla…Many thanks for the information about the panda loan to Singapore! The pandas that will be moving to Singapore have beautiful names.
Hi Panda Family,
Sorry I haven’t been writing much but it hasn’t been by choice and I have missed you all.
Jan Cecchi from Adelaide #83
I wish you and everyone in Australia a beautiful and successful zoo as you too fight for the conservation of our beautiful Panda Bears.
Bobbie Wood 88
Thank you for your desire to share with us. I will look forward to seeing your pictures and videos.
Widget 108
I agree with you. I myself am very proud to be part of this wonderful panda family; and I also would like to thank everyone who shared their pictures and videos with us virtual attendees. It meant more to us than you know.
Frances in NYC 110
If the powers that be ever allow panda pawprints, I would most DEFINITELY be interested in obtaining a few. Specifically, Daddy Gao Gao, Mommy Bai Yun, and our incredible Yun Zi.
Dearest DoxieMom,
There are no words that can truly express my gratitude for your wonderful works of art. I am limited as to the time I can watch the pandacam, so I would miss a lot if it wasn’t for you. Please know that our wonderful pandas (and your work) give me great joy.
Jeri 121
Who is KJ and where can I find the pictures of Gao Gao? Thank you.
Tiny 145
If you haven’t already seen it, go to YouTube and watch “Tai Shan vs Mommy: Da Battle of Da Twee”. Keep a box of tissues with you because you will laugh so hard you will cry!!
Brandy NY 160
Thank you for letting people know what a beautiful part of the country New York State and New Jersey are. And I for one, will always consider all the pandaholics on these blogs part of one big happy Panda Family. I just ask that you forgive me if I sometimes forget things, a head-on collision sometimes is evident in my memory department among other things.
Moderator Debbie
I was also going to ask who you were but someone was nice enough to tell us that you are a moderator who did something nice. Thank you very much for whatever you did, and for your continued efforts to take care of our lovable pandas and us pandaholics.
Maureen in Stanwood MI
Like I told Brandy in NY, I will always consider all the pandaholics on these blogs to be part of one big happy Panda Family, of which I am proud to be a member of. Like I asked her, just please forgive me if I sometimes forget things, a head-on collision sometimes is evident in my memory department among other things. I hope all can understand that and not consider me less of a friend.
Liana in San Diego
Thank you for all of the wonderful pictures.
Danielle in NY 215
Thanks for the update on Fu Long. Although I never watched him personally since I only got involved with the pandacam with the birth of Yun Zi; I’ve cried my eyes out thinking of him leaving his mommy. Thank you for the update that let us know he was doing so well. It made me feel much better.
Dennis & Lynn Carney NJ 217
What wonderful news!!!! God Bless You Lynn, I bet you can’t wait to get home to your new apartment! I pray you have many wonderful times there and make many beautiful memories. Dennis, thank you for your suggestion about showing the UN the Pandacam for a few days. You made me laugh out loud!!!! Do you think they are smart enough that they might learn something from it???? Hee Hee
GOD BLESS YOU BOTH…ALTHOUGH IT IS OBVIOUS THAT HE ALREADY HAS. Hold hands and stay strong!!!
Bobbie Wood
Thank you for sharing the wonderful video featuring our Climbing Artist.
Doxiemom
Thank you for your priceless videos too. Looks like Bai Yun has started training Baby for his public outdoor debut, while zoo keepers have started training him too. Plus, he also does his gym in the den all by himself. What a busy baby we have!
Congratulations to the smart pandafans who worked out a few fine nicknames for our baby; Yunior, YZ-man and Yuni are all very fitting.
Dianne #265–Bai Yun often stores branches of bamboo above the den and out of sight of the camera so that she has them handy. She must have run out the other night.
Lucilla #266–Very funny. Explains the moves ZZ wrote about in #262.
Alas, Phyllis #271–Rachel Poulson from SDZ advises me that they are not allowed to do pawprints as per their agreement with the Chinese. It is a great idea, though!
For all of you who have been following Fu Long’s journey back to China, there is a video on youtube called “Fu Long 40 hours before leaving Zoo Vienna”. Copy the link below and paste it on your browser (sorry, I can’t seem to put in a live link). If it does not work, just search for the video title.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=saQZrq74R-4
Make sure your tissue box is handy – the last scene is heart-rending!! It is so final! So long Happy Dragon, Fu Long! May your new home bring you happy times!!
Lucilla – #266 – Fantastic! and oh, so funny.
Frances in NYC – #273 – Thanks for enlightening me to Bai’s secret stashes!
Phyllis #271 – Good to see you back on the blog. Hope you are feeling better. Have a fantastic Thanksgiving.
#274 pandafan-north – So sad, you can really feel that both mama and son know that these are their last moments together; all of their last videos will bring tears to your eyes. Thank you for this link!
This week-end, I was watching several videos about Fu Long. I came across one video which I think is very precious, I don’t think the link as been posted on this blog yet “Panda Fu Long’s last two days in Vienna” posted on YouTube by lupoforme http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9oAiaMCGLbU&feature=related
When Yang Yang and Fu Long sat down next to each other to eat bamboo, my heart melted when Fu Long put his “arm” around his mother’s back… I had noticed in previous videos that they often sat next to each other to eat, I wonder if it is why his keeper, Eveline Dungl, sat next to him when Fu Long ate his bamboo after arriving in China, so he wouldn’t miss the close company… And today, on the Zoo Vienna website, there is a picture of Fu Long’s new Chinese keeper, Yang Jie, sitting next to him while he is eating his bamboo… On the right of the video, Lupoforme has posted the latest news about Fu Long.
#253 DoxieMom — You got the scoop again! Yun Zi’s (probably) first visit to the classroom. I just read your blog. I saw Bai in the classroom on my visit to the zoo today — sleeping in a tree — she looked gorgeous. I was thrilled as this was the first sighting since Yun Zi’s birth. But, if I had known she had the cub out previously, I would have probably been disappointed at not seeing him. Thanks again for the wonderful video.
i love pandas more than anyone…ever!they are literally an obsession!lol they are adorable!in fact i just recently got back from death valley with my dad,and got him to buy me more panda stuffed animals!although i already had a BUNCH!Lol SAVE THE PANDAS!!(P.S,watch the panda cam its adorable!)
Thank you Anastasia for chatting to me on Mon 16th Nov when I visited. On both 15th and 16th, ZZ and Su gave me beautiful photos and video to remind me of my trip to San Diego.
Does momma panda get upset with the light overhead in the den? Sometimes she acts like she is trying to block it with the bamboo. Yun Z is an adorable baby. I love watching them. He is a funny little guy when he has the exams, I would have a hard time not giving him a kiss on the top of that little baby head. I bet the assistants do also.
Moderator’s note: The light is actually an infrared illuminator that allows us to see in the dark. It’s really black as pitch in that den right now, and even during daylight hours the den is very dimly lit.
Look at Yun Z roll around and stick his paws in his mouth-just like a baby! Ha! He is not forgetting those back paws either. His little mouth is probably sore from those teeth coming thru. At his exams he seems to enjoy it when the staff check out his teeth. It probably feels good on his gums. He is going to be a little dynamo! Look out!!
Cool!
Today, Dec. 27th, I have watched the cam with baby Yun Zi trying to climb a limb. He’s so determined, yet every time he gets up mom pulls him back down. Can anyone explain why she does that?
Beautiful video with Zhen Zhen and music. Thank you!!!