Now that Yun Zi has his official name, what’s ahead for our boy? Currently he is taking “baby steps,” crawling and walking out of the den, either by himself or with the “help” of Bai Yun. As with every panda cub born here at the San Diego Zoo’s Giant Panda Research Station, it is very important that the keepers establish a strong bond with the little ones. Yun Zi is at a perfect age to begin socialization training. He can see, smell, and hear, and is beginning to walk and make attempts to explore the world outside of his den.
For keepers, the first stage of “class” begins with us just hanging outside the den and having a chat with him. Of course, Bai Yun is out in the off-exhibit area happily eating, and we do have a door separating us from her during these sessions. In this phase, we want Yun Zi to get familiar with our voices and smells while staying in the security of his den. We don’t pull him out of the den (exams are the exception) during this stage, but would rather he come to us to “check us out.” It is very important that we create a positive environment in our encounters with him. Eventually it will pay off when he makes the choice to come to us and is not forced.
Another phase of panda cub school is to get him used to coming and going from the exhibit to his bedroom. Bai is just now starting to drag him out to the transfer tunnel area. On occasion, she leaves him in the tunnel while she goes out to the exhibit to eat bamboo. We take this opportunity to interact with him; we go into the tunnel area and show him the way back to his bedroom. From my experiences with four other panda cubs, this stage is quickly learned. Knowing where his bedroom is can come in handy for Yun Zi when Bai is moving too fast and he finds himself alone in the tunnel. We try to familiarize him with his new world of transfer tunnels, going out to the exhibit, and coming off exhibit at the end of the day. All of these things are basic panda management that he will learn during his “kindergarten” days. Bai Yun is very comfortable with these sessions, as she has a strong bond of trust with her keepers. It really helps make the job so much easier!
As Yun Zi matures, he will be able to follow his mother back and forth from the exhibit to the bedroom on a daily basis. At this point, Bai will take over as teacher, but the keepers will still interact with Yun Zi to keep the bond going. We have a great track record with our panda cubs over the years. As the bond between cub and keeper grows, the cub becomes more secure and confident and will be able to deal with the day-to-day life at our Panda Station. When the weaning process begins, the separation from mother is easier due to the already established bond the youngsters have with their keepers. From then on, we become their world.
Yun Zi, like his brother and sisters before him, will pass the kindergarten phase with flying colors. What will his graduation present be? Well, his adoring fans will get to see a happy, secure little panda cub romping about his new exhibit, already prepared for his debut, and then there will be no stopping him!
Kathy Hawk is a senior keeper at the San Diego Zoo.
What a wonderful blog! It is so interesting to hear how the Keepers train the animals and gain a mutual trust between each other so life runs as smoothly as possible. I don’t want him nor his parents to ever return to China. I want us to keep him as a gift for all SDZ has done for the Panda program. I can’t even imagine how cool it must be to just sit and chat with him as he sits in his den looking at you with those big adorable eyes and all that fluffyness! Do you ever have toys with you to interest him or a piece of bamboo shaking to keep his interest or does he just watch and listen for a while then drift back to his Royal Drowsiness?
Kathy, I’ve often wondered: who decides what keeper gets assigned to what panda?
Moderator’s note: All panda keepers work with all of the pandas.
Thank you, again, for all of the wonderful information you share with us. I had the joy of watching Yun Zi take several steps last Friday! It will take a bit of doing to get those legs supporting that body, but I know it won’t be long now. I’m so looking forward to each and every progression!
Great post, Kathy!
I’m curious about one thing, you stated, “the first stage of “class” begins with us just hanging outside the den and having a chat with him”. I tuned into the word “chat”.
What kind of phrases do you say to him in the chat? Does he repond to your voice with any sound, a quiet squawk, squeal, i.e……..Can you share? Inquiring minds would love to know…..;)
Thanks Kathy for the update and education on the next big milestones. As if it wasn’t exciting enough already, things are getting ready to move very quickly in Yun Zi’s development over the next few weeks. I remember when ZZ first went out into the Classroom Area and was somewhat clumsy in her walking. She would try to climb logs on the ground and fall off. Unperturbed she would try again until she made it. If she tried something Bai didn’t think she was ready for, she would nudge her away from it, or forcefully remove her from the area. Cubs can be very determined in their efforts to learn new behaviors and go to new things. It will be interesting to see how “Mr Mellow” adapts. ZZ was very precocious and assertive in the den prior to going outside. So, stay tuned folks, and fasten your seatbelts for an incredible journey.
Many thanks for all the great information about the days ahead of Yun Zi. Waiting with happy anticipation of the day I can watch him “romping” in the exhibit. What a treat that will be.
Kathy,
You have the most interesting job… if you want… exchange it with me????
Thank you for the info, I’ve mom in the bedroom, she seems alittle rough at times, but I know she
won’t hurt him. Last nite yan li would head for the outside and she would pull him back by a paw
or her teeth. It was interesting to watch. Again thanks for the info.
lu
i’m back from vacation and except for the zoo and seeing my sister it was the worst vacation. I ended up in Saint Johns hospital for 4 days because of all things a infected hair folicle. Now the Zoo was the best time of my life and I was in my glory. Miss Su Lin was in rare form running and bouncing off everything possible. Zhen Zhen was draped over her favorite tree and barely moved all though she lifted her head and sniffed the air once in awhile. I was able to meet Kay who was narrating that day and a gentlem named Lloyd who was guiding folks to the exhibit. The highlight was watching on a large monitor and I couldn’t believe how big he is and he was active and then took a nap. We also took a behind the scenes tour and Our guide a young lady Sara from the education dept was so knowledgeable, we went into elephant oddessy and got a great look at the polar bears. The keepers had I believe it was Kenai and his dog friend walking around the zoo and we were able to get a peek at Bakka and his companion Miley doing their private show. There is just to much to say about this zoo, but be assured these animals ARE well cared for and the people who care for them are the best and deeply commited to their care. Thank you to everone who made my day a drean come true. You are all special people
Moderator’s note: Thanks for sharing your special day at the Zoo. Hope you are all recovered from your unusual infection!
I would like to say thanks also for all the wonderful information about what is about to take place with the little guy. I didn’t have the opportunity to watch the other four babies grow up and I’m still very excited for any news from you at the Zoo. He certainly is a charmer and I’m so glad the name Yun Zi was chosen for him, as it was my choice too. I have had the opportunity to watch some interaction with the keepers at Wolong in China, via the computer and it seems they really are attached to the pandas in a way that I don’t see here. I am glad to read that you do get the chance to interact with them. They all are very adorable, although I have read that they can be dangerous as adults. Anyway, keep up the wonderful work you are fortunate to do. I look forward to every minute I can see any panda. Have a great day
Thank you for this interesting information. Is there a date set yet when he will be introduced
to the public in the exhibit outside? You have a great job!!!
Moderator’s note: No date has been set for his public debut. Rest assured we will announce it to the world when we know
I am learning more every day about these wonderful creatures. I thought ZZ had taught me all I needed to know, but there is so much more. Elizabeth #4 wanted to know what the ‘chat’ consists of and I would love to know too.
I wondered what I was seeing the other afternoon. I saw “Mom” take the baby out into her garden area. Then a little while later, a keeper was seen carrying him back into the bedroom. Now I know what was going on. I thought maybe Bai Yun had forgotten him somewhere in between!!
He’s so funny to watch…seems like he sees his reflection in the shiny metal walls of the den sometimes. He’s not real adventurous yet but I’m sure that will come.
Thanks for the updates.
the baby is so Special and sweet My mom and I are favorte big fan’s of Giant Pandas we want to be a voluntere of Pandas so we moved to sandigo and now were back here in colorado but i live in Hawaii now we dont have a zoo there were we can go see Panda’s herer or there so we want to move back to Sandigo now we dont see them so i love the Panda’s webcam very thoughtfull but a lil suguestion is why dont u put in cam’s in the room’s were endangerd animales are to help with the public helping of getting the animales were people can help them become less endangerd by maby sending in donation’s of stuff so i am gonna do out here is collect blanket’s and old baby bottles for the baby animales as well as animale donation’s and money to help i will be seeing them panda’s soon kind of like a mama Panda i have a west highland white terrier who was born for me i feel lucky like Baijayn or how ever the mama panda is spelling her name I would love to work with Panda’s so bad I love them if anyone would like send me donation’s and maby do a chalange to grow some fund’s for the Panda’s as well as outher animales to help save them for feature donation’s and outher people ‘s kid’and and there kid’s to see them animales we need to help preserve the Panda’s
Kathy, thank you very much for a very informative post. As what Eliza said (post #7), “You have the most interesting job.” I’d love to exchange jobs with you too:-). Well, I am still a college student, but sometimes, school work are just too daunting!
I can’t wait for Yun Zi’s debut. I promised him that my husband and I will be there since I didn’t go to his naming ceremony. Maybe, we will be able to bring Mom too:-).
Thanks, Kathy….THANK YOU VERY MUCH, SDZ!
Kathy, thank you for the update. I have noticed him missing from the den and then I see mom bringing him back in. It is such a beautiful feeling to watch him with the live cam. When does he start to fallow mom all over? I seen him on his 13th. exam and my oh my is he ever a cutie, he gets cuter every time I see him.
Let me be the first to volunteer to chat with his Royal Cuteness Yun Zi or to just plain watch him in his bedroom or tunnel or exhibit.
I love your blogs – thanks for all the information. Yun Zi is growing so fast. I love watching him & his mom playing with each other usually laughing at him trying to get away. One question, sometimes Bai stands up in the den and appears to be looking at something. Do you know why she does this? What an awesome job you have and you probably can’t wait to get to work!
Moderator’s note: Sometimes she can hear the Panda Cam cameras as they track the action.
Let me know if you ever need a substitute teacher! I’ll be happy to volunteer
How much is Bai Yun aware of what is happening with Yunior while she is munching on bamboo? Is she aware while she is eating from the sounds and smells, or does she only notice afterwards if Yunior has been moved a great distance and smells of one of the keepers
Could you ask the panda cam team to let us see some of the “kindergarten” when it is in session? This is all so fascinating! Thanks for continuing to write such interesting and informative posts!!
What a total fascinating description of ‘panda kindergarten’! I could almost feel that I was there with you helping and training the pandas. It is no wonder that they turn out so great with such ‘dedicated’ helpers and trainers. Keep up the good work! Can’t wait to get down there to see the whole family of pandas at SDZ. Is Su Lin due to leave anytime soon? If so, I will schedule my trip down there before she goes. Thanks.
Moderator’s note: We don’t have a date for Su Lin’s departure.
I didn’t know you Panda keepers do this…this is an amazing things you guys do…
How long is the tunnel??? Is there a difference in weaning a panda male and females?? What does the keepers say to baby pandas when they do this?
Thank you Kathy, that was so interesting, I never knew all this went on when training the little ones. And that Bai is so good while it’s going on, she really is an exceptional Mom, I believe she is going to have her paws full with this little guy, he is strong. Like the others, I would love to know what you chat with him about. I, too, am looking forward to him running around the exhibit. Thanks to all you wonderful keepers.
If Bai Yun, experienced Panda Mum, trust the keepers for Yun Zi education it means that you are trustworthy !
Good luck and thank you !
Kathy, thank you very much for the lesson on “Prince Yun’s Next Steps”. I, too, would gladly volunteer to be one of his “chat mates”. But, alas! he has to get used to the keepers’ voices, so I guess it would be counter-productive for me to set up the “SDZ Animal Chat Mates Club.” It’s a bit of a long shot anyway, since I live in Canada, but I can always dream.
It has been very amusing to watch Bai and Yunior these last couple of days. That Bai does not miss much, but Yun takes every chance he gets to get out of her reach – no luck! He gets dragged back by his tail, by a leg, by his behind, whatever mama Bai can grab hold of. I think the world of panda lovers is in for a grand time of panda watching.
Doxiemom, I love your videos. And thanks to all who have shared their photos – they are all great captures. I’m hoping to post the photos of my October visit very soon, so stay tuned.
I envy the Panda keepers. I would love to have the opportunity to interact and train the little guy!! Is 60 years old to old to start? ha, ha, just kidding.
Seriously, thanks to all the keepers for treating all the Pandas with care and love.
Love the info! I have seen him ‘scoot and army crawl’ almost out the door. he gets so close to the sun beams but not quite out. I am hooked on this bear!
Love the info! I have seen him ‘scoot and army crawl’ almost out the door. he gets so close to the sun beams but not quite out. I am hooked on this bear!
Love the info! I have seen him ‘scoot and army crawl’ almost out the door. he gets so close to the sun beams but not quite out. I am hooked on this bear!
Love the info! I have seen him ‘scoot and army crawl’ almost out the door. he gets so close to the sun beams but not quite out. I am hooked on this bear!
I’ve missed the last few days of blogs as my Father has been in ICU. He has a very acute case of pancreatitis and had to have surgery – tomorrow he is getting a trach. We are keeping positive thoughts only and I ask my fellow Panda lovers/bloggers to send him (and my Mom) as many prayers as possible. It may be quite some time, but my family will be celebrating a day of Thanksgiving when he is back home and able to eat turkey (one of his favorites). I have been able to sneak peaks at all the US pandas, which is a great source of comfort. Thank you.
Moderator’s note: Hang in there during this difficult time, Jane! It sounds like your dad has a great support system.
Thank you so much for the education lessons Kathy. You know what worry warts aunts can be!!! LOL…….
It seems they are on track with what is expected of them and that is wonderful. I have so enjoyed watching Yun Zi get more strength in his legs and tooling around the areas.
Have a great day!
Thanks for another great behind-the-scenes description of life with pandas at the SDZ! Kathy, are your chats with Yun Zi similar to the chats you used to have with Bai Yun when she first came to San Diego and you were getting to know her? You mentioned your chats with Bai awhile back and I often think of how many wonderful memories you must have of all of the giant pandas that have passed through during your time there. Someone else asked whether Yun Zi offers any vocalizations in response and I am also wondering whether he vocalizes during his human chats.
I read a study once about the interaction between animal keepers and their animals. One conclusion is that animals who have a lot of verbal interaction with their keepers are less stressed and live a better life. No doubt the SDZ pandas love seeing their “panda people” every day and look forward to conversing with them and enjoy the positive experience.
Yun Zi will have an eye-opening experience when he one day realizes that all humans aren’t blue. Right now he associates the color with every human he sees since everyone wears the blue gowns when he’s examined.
Thanks again, Kathy! I so enjoy seeing you hold Yun Zi when you bring him to the exam room. I can see the love and adoration for him in your eyes.
Which part of the exhibit will Yun Zi come out on? Is there a new part and if so, where is it, in relation to Su Lin and Zhen Zhen’s places?
Moderator’s note: In the past, our cubs make their debut in the classroom exhibit, which faces the panda gift shop and is usually closed to the public. Su and Zhen’s exhibits face the Panda Canyon road.
Kathy, what a wonderful update on Yun Zi and his kindergarten classes. As usual, SDZ keepers and trainers totally rock! And what a great way to make a living! Oh, I know you all work very hard, and it’s not easy doing what you do. But what rewards you earn, being able to interact with these amazing animals. I am confident that Bai Yun has total trust in you all with her baby. After all, what mom doesn’t appreciate a baby-sitter now and then?
And I can hardly wait until I’m able to make my trip out there to see His Royal Cuteness in the flesh!
OMG, I just can’t believe how fast time has flown. He’s in kindergarten already! Sniff! and tears of joy!
Moderator: Do your keys ever get jammed?(;)) I saw in your comments that your y and your r were not visible. Maybe they were jammed? When is Yun Zi’s next exam? I hope he is a 14 pounder!
Dear Kathy,
Your article today was so enlightening!
I never imagined the effort involved in the continuous care of Yun Zi.
There must be considerable “behind the scenes ” operations that go on at The Zoo that make it function so well!
…..also a lot of love and compassion for the animals.
Thank you for keeping us involved and informed.
This Baby Panda has put Joy in my life!
Jane # 27 You and your Dad are in our thoughts and prayers for his quick recovery.
Some zoo’s teach their animals to do tricks… Any shot at this? I would SO LOVE to see Yun Zi sit up and beg for a cookie like a puppy! Now that would be cute!!! Do you all teach them tricks? Like the sea animals or Elephants or anything? I know the Polar bears do ultra sounds and many of the girls do to.. but I mean real tricks? Do they learn any?
Moderator’s note: The pandas learn to do certain behaviors on cue that help us manage their care.
This is great news. Thanks! AWwww…Kindergarten… Yun Zi and his mama had me laughing yesterday. He wanted to venture out on his own, and she would grab him and scoop him back to her. Usually with her right arm, but once with her teeth! He finally took a little look outside, and decided he didn’t want to go, afterall. Yun Zi wore himself out, and had to take a nap. He is so darned cute!! You keepers are real “keepers”. You do such a fantastic job with everything you do. Thank you so very much!
I know all jobs can be trying at times, but to get to do what you do for just one day would be a dream come true!
Thank you Kathy about letting us know of Panda Kindergarten. This is so interesting. I love watching Yun Zi as he tries to leave the den. In fact I saw him yesterday get right outside the den and then I saw a shadow that whisked him away. Was that Bai Yun that picked him up?
thank you kathy for the new info. we all do appreciate.
now… i seem to be getting that old familiar sad feeling in my heart, the same as i felt when my girls started kindergarten.
time does fly, and the little ones grow much too fast.
hugs to yunie,
joan
painted post, n.y.
A question for the rest of the panda nuts… have any of you noticed what a total camera ham our baby is? Have any of you EVER seen a panda baby that knows there is a camera there in his face and it’s time to ham it up like he does? I promise it’s like he is saying.. “I know I am wonderful look at me” Oh he is so going to be a hand full!!! Or a Paw full! When he figures out there are cameras on him all the time.. OH MY Watch him go!!!
Thank you for another wonderful look into our pandas lives and what we can expect! Did you all notice that Bai Yun offered up Yun Zi to the camera this morning!! Normally she stands up with her boo and shows it to us but this morning she had the little guy in her mouth and she stood up with him right up to the cam! I wonder if she was saying ‘look at him, isn’t he just the most precious?’!!
How times flies, he hardly has a name and already begins going to school. But please don’t mention weaning yet! We all know it will happen too soon.
Speaking of kindergarten, do we know now/does anybody know if Mei Sheng has sired Ping Ping’s baby?
(If I remember well, Ping Ping gave birth to a baby girl on 26th August after she romantically met two boys, our Mei Sheng and another male called Lu Lu… who is the Daddy then?)
Thank you in advance for the answer.
Dear Moderator:
Since during the cub’s last examine, the photographer took a Panda fan’s request, and showed us the black top of YZ’s little tail, I wonder if you could ask the photographer show us YZ’s webfoot again during the next examine, or the one after that. I know the vet had shown us once, but at that time, YZ very still very small, it was not that clear. Do you mind asking him/her take this request? I think it is possible some new bloggers have not heard of YZ’s webfoot. Does he has on 1 foot only? among 2 toes only? or more? Does the vet remember how many webbed foot Mei Shang, Su Lin, Zhen zhen, and Gao Gao each has? All the same number? It would be very nice if we can get few clear pictures of this proof that all of the 4 kids are Gao Gao’s kids. I don’t think any fan would object.
Thank you.
Moderator’s note: The photographer tried, but the cub’s feet are too hairy. I think the webbing can be felt rather than seen. The webbing is on both hind feet; not sure how many toes are involved. All of Gao’s offspring have had this feature.
Hi everyone from Adelaide
Thanks Kathy for such a wonderful blog about Panda kindergarten. I learn something new every day.
And thanks Doxiemum – I just love your videos.
Our 2 Pandas arrive on Saturday – only 4 more days and I see them for the first time on December 15 – I can’t wait. ( Wang Wang and Funi)
Best wishes to all of the other pandaholics across the world – first thing I do each day is read all of the blogs. And I have to say Yunior is becoming such a little personality – it appears that he has quite a strong character already
Hi everybody. Responses from last blog page. #266- Lucillia- Sooo cute. #269-Bobbie Wood – Though you could be right I’m just not ready yet. Means hes growing up. #271- Phyliss memory whats that? I keep notes for everything and then forget where I put them. But seriously if you did suffer a headon collision and it wasn’t a pun, my prayers are with you. From this day forward never apoligize again for your family here will keep you informed and assist with what you forgot. Understanding is the roots to any good family dynamic. Including a Panda family. Kindergarden, no, no not yet. I feel empty nest syndrome attack comming. No really that sounds so wonderful Kathy. I’m glad you explained this for I had a differant impression. I had thought that SDZ had minimal contact with the cubs other than exams. I’m so glad I’m wrong. It will be a wonderful addition to hear the reports back from these interactions. You think the bloggers were jealous before. Watch out now. We will all be sending you conversations from us to Zi we will want you to say durring the zoo keepers visits.
Oh my, do I hear another contest coming. Who’s words will be spoken to “Son of Cloud” It could be a once a week thing here on Pandaholic’s News Net work. I can hear the moderators now. This woman is nuts. I’m not reading all that. #25 Barbara – 60s is not too old for anything. #27 All our prayers are with you and your family. Speedy recovery for your dad.
When you chat with him, I imagine you must tell him stories about his big brother in China and his big sisters all his relatives & friends in Atlanta & Washington & Memphis, and best of all his father Gao Gao
In response to Elizabeth #4, I’ve had normal conversations with Yun Zi ever since he was born, and when we go in to clean Bai’s bedroom, I talk to him all the time. I truly think he is beginning to recognize the keeper’s voices now, which is a good thing!
Thank You Kathy for the information…We visited once while Lin Lin was in her early public debut and were amazed when during afternoon cleanup when one of the keepers followed Bai Yun into the holding area and then watched her hand feed Gao Gao his favorite treat of pear slices thru the fence….All of you at the SDZ have gone out of their way to assist the public with our Pandaholic Infatuation…..Thank You keepers for taking the time to answer questions while you were cleaning and setting out the evening bamboo in the display area as my wife has been in the Hospital for 11 months now and she still talks about how great you all were and are ….# 27 welcome to the Panda family you and your Father will be in prayers tonight as my Pandaholic friends have helped my wife get thru a tough period in the Hospital with their well wishes and notes…..We can’t wait to see how Yun Zi responds to his first snow day and hope we can be in SoCal to see it in person,Moderetor please keep us posted when unusual enrichment is scheduled if possible….. Yun Zi is the Panda Prince of Peace!!!
Moderator’s note: We will certainly let panda fans know when “snow” is scheduled to fall in pandaland!
Gloris #41..Mei Sheng’s cougar’s name is Ying Ying….(she is a lot older than him)
To respond to Linda #19,
Bai is very aware of what we are doing with Yun Zi. We have a very strong bond of trust with Bai, so she is fine with the training sessions. Yun Zi does not seem to be frightened by these sessions; believe me, if he did not like them he would cry out to Mom! We go very slowly with him and watch his reactions. Again, it is very important to keep the sessions on a very positive level, and, due to his young age, we keep the sessions short.
Love looking at Sui Lin snackin’ out side..
Love looking at Sui Lin snackin’ out side..
Love looking at Sui Lin snackin’ out side..
Love looking at Sui Lin snackin’ out side..
Awwww. Panda Kindergarten. That’s just so cute. I am a former kindergarten teacher. I remember all the little ones were wiggle worms and giggle boxes! How fun to teach little pandas!
Thanks, Kathy (like your name!), for your update. I am so glad to read that the keepers bond the way that they do, with the babies. Zhennie was my first baby, and it has torn me apart even til today, as she had to say good bye to momma Bai. It was like a Disney movie, you know, Bambi, DUMBO especially….aaaagh!!!!! So, to hear you share with us of the bonds that are created between you and the babies is such good news. Of course, in reality, I know that you are there, but to hear what actually happens, is a relief, kind of foster or surrogate mommas! That feels much, much better, and I will not have to dread as little cloud approaches the weening process…
ps. Moderator, it doesn’t matter how many typos you make, as long as you keep doing what you’re doing, and what a great job, I will add! Thank you!
Auntie Kat
Moderator’s note: What typos?
Jane in Fairfield, VT….I am in Vermont, too.. Manchester, and I will be going to an early Thanksgiving service tomorrow night., I will say a prayer for your Dad and Mom, and for you, too. I hope everything goes well and that it won’t be long until you are all celebrating Thanksgiving together.
As I watched the wonderful closeup of Su Lin at 4 PM this afternoon, my mind wandered back to when I first saw her on the cam in Feb 2006. She was climbing the trees and wandering the exhibit. One of my favorite, albeit soemwhat sad sights, was when she and Bai Yun were standing side by side looking out the window of the bedroom door watching the keepers set out their food on their last day together. It was their last few minutes together, as when they went back outside each went their own way into separate enclosures. When I watched Fu Long’s last day with his mother, it brought back similar reminders of their behaviors. It is a sad but hopeful time, when offspring strike out on their own to build their future. Mothers get a well deserved rest and plenty of food for their own nurishment prior to the breeding season which is a few months away.
As we watch Yun Zi, grow every day, and see him go through “Panda Kindergarten,” we must realize that this too is part of the natural process of a young wild animal learning survival skills to make it on their own. It is not like watching a puppy or kitten who will remain in constant close human contact throughout their lifetime. Although all pandas currently in captive environments will likely be in close human contact for their lifetime, their wild counterparts will not. Those who are being nursed back to health from injuries or illness will be returned to the wild, just as Gao Gao was as a yearling or so cub when he was cared for after he was found with his injured ear. He loved human contact so much that he came back and finally was brought into a captive environment permanently because he did not want to remain in the wild. He loves his bamboo provided easily for him too much to have to go back out and find it himself. Since he was so young, it is possible that he was orphaned and not yet able to care totally for himself. Because he has lived most of his life in captivity he has produced 4 stellar cubs, including Yun Zi, which we are having the great fortune to watch grow through all the familiar life milestones.
Panda life going in cycles and we are witnessing one of the most enjoyable, educationa,, and entertaining.
I saw Yun Zi take several steps in the room outside the birthing den yesterday. He’s on his way to locomotion…look out Bai.
Thanks for your answer, Kathy! And thanks for the wonderful job that you and the rest of the Panda Team do with the pandas. To earn the trust of a panda must be a real honor as well as a treat. You can tell that little Yun Zi is a securely attached panda and trusts his keepers by the way he interacts with everyone during his exams – so curious and eager! Please give little Yunior an extra tickle on his belly during the next one for me
Wonderful report on Yunior entering Kindergarten…he just melts our hearts. #27 Jane: My prayers are with you, your Father and family. My Mother also had a severe case of acute pancreatitis many years ago. I know what you’re going through. Hopefully, his surgery will allow him to recover more quickly. PandaCam will help relieve your stress. We all have many reasons for watching these wonderful Pandas and one of them is to help balance the tough parts of our lives with the pure joys.
Our little Yunnie is growning so fast hard to believe he starting kindergarten already. But we know he’ll pass with flying colors. love ya little guy.
awww, so cute!! i love him
Thank You for the Kindergarten update, Kathy
I am so very excited to see what Bai teaches Yuniour each day! Oh to be a panda-mentor 
The only difference would be that we are not talking face to face with a panda…..although I speak out loud to the cam so many times a day. If I’m at the SDZ, I always talk (softly) to the animals as well. 
Often, at home, I tell my little dog, Max, what the pandas are doing and also, I tend to ‘translate’ Max’s responses to me and other humans. 
Oh to be a Pandagarten teacher 
I find those moments a lot like when I attempt to take a candid photo of my grandchildren….Hams all 
To Susan UK #12 and Elizabeth #4 and any other panda fan with furry critters at home: I simply KNOW you all communicate on a verbal basis with your furry family on a constant basis
To Jane #27: Wishes for a fine recovery for your dad! Been there, and boy was I thrilled when surgery was done! Apple Sauce is a great way to finally begin to eat solid food….it actually tastes good to a patient.
Jan #43: I am so thrilled that you will have your pandas on exhibit soon! Their exhibit is really neat! I have a friend who lives in Sydney…a long drive away, but my friend is planning on visiting your beautiful zoo and New Panda Bears!
Tina #39: Oh yes I have
Thank you, Kathy, for your beautifully descriptive blog.
Ohh Kathy – more behind the scenes info – priceless
I know you had mentioned it before on an izoofari chat – imagine you just quietly talk to Yuni for a few minutes so he gets used to your voice & scent (both important in a panda’s world)
#27 – Jane – Fairfield, VT – you know all your fellow panda friends are praying for you & your dad
#43 – Jan Cecchi from Adelaide, Australia – I can see you bouncing up & down with excitement – when I was finally in line at SDZ panda exhibit I know I bounced up & down – could “bearly” stand it.
Moderator, I echo your response to #52 kat – “what typos?” I, myself, don’t recall seeing any. Maybe she means that even if you do have typos, you’re still doing a great job.
#54 Margaret – I love your post – so reassuring. Yes, every creature has its own life cycle and, with the pandas, we are so privileged to be able to follow them along in their journeys.
#27 Jane – thoughts and prayers go out to your family at this trying time.
From #52-
Dear Moderator, once in a while I’ll read a comment from someone about a typo….i.e., #33. I was only attempting to make light of it, by saying we are just lucky to have this opportunity to be a part of this experience, nothing else matters…
Apologize if my comment came off critical. NEVER my intention.
Peace and love
Moderator’s note: No offense taken. If you find a typo on any of my remarks or in a blog post, PLEASE let me know so I can correct it.
#41..Gloria…I’m sorry, somehow I hit the wrong key when typing your name. I apologize for that. Moderator..I haven’t seen any typo’s but Pandafan#2 said something about your y’s and r’s? Maybe other people are seeing something I’m not. Or not seeing something…..you get the idea.
Oh I giggled even before I read the blog, because I knew it would be full of such fun information about our little one. And sure enough, it was great! I just love the idea of Yun Zi tooling around his area, and then trying to figure out just exactly “who” is outside there. Having been a school teacher (many years ago!!!) I love that you all take it slowly with him. Just as in any training, whether with humans or animals, slow is best. If I remember, repetition is the operative word! Just get the little boy used to your smells, your touches, your voices and soon he’ll just be rip-roarin’ through the exhibit!
So cute watching him the other night as he lay completely zonked out, both legs splayed out to the side, head turned to the side. He was like that for the longest time, until he scratched his little side, and then woke up with a start. A noise? A dream? Wondering from where the tickle (self-induced) came? He just makes me laugh when I watch him.
A report from my oldest grandson, who couldn’t come to the naming ceremony. I did as he requested, took copious “notes” and shared the information plus all my pictures with him. He then promptly talked all about Bai Yun and Yun Zi in class the next day, and now all the kids in his class want to go to the zoo to see the baby panda. Of course, I did remind him that the cublet isn’t out yet, so I am under STRICT instructions to get the date, and pass it on immediately! A promise is a promise. So don’t be surprised if suddenly a whole first-grade class descends on the panda pavillion to see Yun Zi! And I will be right there with them!
Hey, I’m a second grade teacher….I think I’d like to do an exchange program with your folks for a while! Sounds like a fascinating job. I remember when my grandchildren were very young and we visited once. How amazing! Since then, I’ve lost track of babies born, etc. But now I’m enjoying the online educational information. Just the website after a weary day! The baby keeps getting cuter and cuter. Also, he looks like he’s smiling–actually–very often. Anyone else see that??
Have a good evening….
Sharon
Kathy, thank you for the educational update. Cool that he is starting to recognize your voice and other keepers. Does he grin at you like a baby does at familar voices??? I’m sure he is grinning on the inside because you all do such a wonderful job.
I’m sorry for all of those who are having difficult times. While we don’t know each other personally, we are a panda family, and know that we all care.
DoxieMom, thank you once again, for the videos. Boy, Momma Bai is going to have her work cut out for her. And I love the way she holds him. What a mom!
It seems that Yun Zi is visibly getting bigger everyday. And cuter (if that’s possible).
Lin Ping kinda learned how to go down a slide tonight. What a crack up!
#46 Kathy Hawk – Thanks for the reply. I think that is wonderful you have established such a rapport in talking to YZ at such young, tender age! So cool!!!
Sometimes I quickly skim through this blog, looking only for words in italics – the moderators’ notes. Today I was skimming along and came across the following note. It gave me a start until I went back and read the reader’s comment at #42 above.
“Moderator’s note: The photographer tried, but his feet are too hairy. …”
Moderator’s note: Well, it’s not a typo, but it is terrible grammar..in a funny way. I was going to leave it as is, but then the perfectionist in me made me correct it.
Happy Thanksgiving to all the Zoo Staff, bloggers and Pandas!
Sincerely, Joellen
Thank you, Kathy, for another great lesson in Pandology! Have you considered reading him Winnie The Pooh?
I read an article on a Chinese news site (jn English) about the pandas leaving for Australia. One of the items presented was “The two pandas will receive a body check Tuesday before their departure.” I THINK this may have been a translation of the fact that the bears will get a physical exam before taking off, but I had this odd picture in my mind of them being body-cavity examined for … what? state secrets, exotic Chinese fertility drugs, more than 4 ounces of shampoo? A fine way to smuggle items from China to Australia!
To all with family crises and problems who take the time to participate in this community, I am thankful this Thanksgiving for you!
#16 mentions 13th exam. Did I miss something? I thougth the Naming Day exam #12. Is there a new video since then? Maybe I counted wrong.
Moderator’s note: You are correct. He has had 12 exams so far.
Re #70
I thought it was funny, too – a great joke on me and my too-hurried reading.
Thank you so much Kathy for all the wonderful information. I learned so much from your blog. I thought Bai Yun would teach her beautiful baby boy everything. I didn’t think the keepers started training so soon. I can’t wait for more information.
I do enjoy all the information that is given to us Panda fans weekly. I look forward to it every week.
Thank you so much Kathy.
A SUPER DUPER PANDA FAN FOR EVER
Hi, I was watching at about 9pm, Bai Yun was banging on the little door to the den. I went to the comments to see if anyone had commented regarding that. Then Yun Zi was back. I don’t know what happened, but I am glad he is okay. I realized how much that little guy means to me.
Dear Kathy,
I can’t tell you enough how wonderful the staff at SDZ is.I have so much fun watching the cams and reading the blogs about the animals.I am mostly on the panda cam because they are my favorite of all.I don’t miss a day of watching the handsome Yun Zi and how fast he is growing.Bai Yun is a great mom and I am glad they gave him the legacy of her name.I just wanted to say thank-you for so much informative information and great cams.I wish you all a great happy holiday and keep up the good work.It is very much appreciated.
what an awesome update! thanks so much dearest moderator! and my thoughts and prayers are with your family and dad #27. wouldn’t it be great if we could just borrow one of the pandas and your dad could have a ‘therapy panda’? a nice panda cuddle would certainly do the trick.
A wonderful post again, Kathy. You all do such terrific job, both with the pandas and with keeping the pandamaniacs well informed. Panda kindergarten sounds like fun, and I know it will be just as helpful to Yun Zi as it is to human children. It’s so amazing how little ones like that can just absorb lessons through their pores, practically!
I know that in humans there is a “window of opportunity” for most easily learning a foreign language, and that the window usually closes at the onset of puberty. Is there a similar “window of opportunity” in pandas and other animals to learn things, such as the behaviors you teach to aid you in giving exams, etc. Inquiring minds want to know!
To Jane in Vermont: My sister is also in Vermont, in a tiny town near the Canadian border called Barnet; she’s loosely associated with Karme Choling, the Buddhist retreat center there. In any case, I will be sending positive thoughts your way each day as you go through this difficult time. I hope you and your family will be able to truly celebrate Thanksgiving very soon.
To Everyone: Happy Thanksgiving!
Can you post a video of Yun Zi crawling? I have seen him talk just a couple of small steps, but have not been able to catch the cam at the right time for crawling. He’s always sleeping!
. Thank you so much!!
Watching Baby P being a wigglebear and winding up that back leg, we were wondering if the pandas have any sort of exercise regime? Yunnie seems to be very flexible as he had his hind leg almost over his head at one point, and Bai Yun might need to lose some of those post-baby pounds. Not that Momma P is fat, she’s a full figured woman and all, but is there Pandarobics for this rolly pollys? We would sign up for that class.
I think the typos that are referred to may be the monitor the people have on their computer. I have not seen any typos and I am quick to notice them if they are there. Your blogs seem perfect to me. I look forward to all the blogs and enjoy reading the comments by the public. It is hard not to get attached to these bears and we are not even there like you.
Happy Thanksgiving to all!!
OK, now I’m really jealous.
#27 Jane, my thoughts are with you and your family. All the best to your Dad and I hope he makes a full recovery.
#60 Bobbie, you are so right!! Yes I tell my cats everything, especially when I’m feeling down and, as I’m sure other cat/pet lovers have discovered, when you feel ill, they seem to know. For some reason I didn’t equate that to the Pandas (brain melt again). Oh, how I’d love to have a cup of coffee, actually make that a chocolate milk, and a very long chat with any of the Pandas. I think Bai and Gao would have a lot to chat about.
Kathy, another huge thank you for the wonderful info. I got all the Panda’s a thanksgiving meal and Yun Zi I donated to his new exhibit. I also adopted Yun Zi and couldn’t be more proud. Now I have two “Grand babies”, how cool is that!!! I want to wish all the keepers, staff, and camera people and anyone I missed a wonderful and Happy Thanksgiving.
Moderator’s note: Thank you for providing so generously to our panda family through our Wish List, Debbie. May you have a happy Thanksgiving, too!
Thank you so much for keeping us informed, I love to watch the panda cam in Amsterdam. Bai Yun is really a good mom. I find the blog very educating. Thanks again.
Kathy, what a wonderful and informative article. I loved it. It would be so neat to be able to have “chit chats” with Yun Zi. What a wonderful jon you and the keppers have. To be able to interact with the pandas would be a dream come true. Keep up the fantastic job that you do. Happy Thanksgiving to all!!!
Ok lets get this straight with TYPOS…some on here always correcting the Mods typo…if you look back way before #52 Kat comment and kat was just backing up the mods…this is internet I sometimes spell “night” “nite” …so its not a typo sometimes but if it is…aslong we understand what the mods typing to say…
anyways about Yun Zi ..I know for sure this Gao Junior has brought alot of people around the world together and awareness…and everytime I try to catch him with mama or crawling about..I never do : (
Moderator’s note: I’m truly not offended if someone points out an error (as long as it’s done politely, so my feelings don’t get hurt!). We all strive to keep our Web site as accurate as we can.
Thanks, Kathy, for the update. I know that when Tai Shan was a young cub, the cam would often be left on while the keepers swept into the enclosure and I saw a few encounters of keepers with Tai. They were very tender and sweet. One in particular was a keeper just bending down to pat him and say hello. You could see the love and caring in the encounter and I was so pleased to be able to watch that.
I know all of you at SDZ are the same way and it gives me (and all of us, I’m sure) great pleasure to know that ‘our pandas’ are in such good hands.
Doesn’t Bai look lovely this morning dining al fresco on Cam 28!
Is Yun Zi having an exam?
Moderator’s note: Yes!
Jane of Fairfield, VT #27
Know that our thoughts and prayers go out to your Dad, Mom, you, and the rest of your family at this difficult time. Be strong for each other and have faith. Prayer is a very powerful thing.
Kathy,
Thank you for such a wonderfully informative blog. I bet your tunnel and den chats make up for all the less pleasant parts of your job. God Bless all of you at the SDZ for the wonderful work you do with our animals. I really appreciate how you make us all part of it, that is soooo kind of you. There are no words that could thank you enough. I do think you will all be at the front of the line when it comes to getting into heaven.
Dianne in Texas #31
Thank you for welcoming me back Dianne. It meant a lot to me.
Brandy NY #44
Unfortunately, my reference to a head-on collision was not a pun; it was very real. I want to thank you from my heart for your promise of understanding if I forget something. I honestly only mentioned that I sometimes have a problem because someone made a mention in a previous blog that she was very disappointed and let down because she thought a group she had been involved with for a long time were really friends and she found out that many of them didn’t seem to know too much about each other. I did not want to hurt anyone in our wonderful Panda Family because I forgot something. I agree about understanding being one of the roots of any good relationship. But experience has shown me that the same family who at times offer their love and support, can turn on you and accuse you of forgetting something as “a matter of convenience” even though they know you fight like heck constantly to try to override the damage that was done. Obviously, you are not that kind of person and I thank you for your offer of true friendship and understanding. I also thank you for the tears of joy I shed when I read your comments about us driving the poor moderator crazy with our requests for “please tell Yun Zi….” God Bless You and I wish you and yours the happiest Thanksgiving ever !!!!!
What is cam #28?
Moderator’s note: Cam #28 shows the area known as the classroom exhibit.
Moderator: Is it Bai Yun on cam 28 eating bamboo with her back to the camera?
Happy and Safe Thanksgiving Everyone! Enjoy!
It’s 8:15AM PST and I think I see a bear in one of the classroom areas (cam 28). Is that Bai Yun in the great outdoors? She is pausing a lot during her eating, looking over to her right and her ears are swiveling around, perhaps listening for Yun Zi. I’m wondering if there’s an exam going on…
Dr. Erin Willis at the Memphis Zoo has made some strides in possibly detecting panda pregnancy in the first week of gestation by monitoring a specific protein normally linked to increased inflammation. Apparently the level of that protein also seems to increase in response to pregnancy (an actual pregnancy, not a pseudopregnancy). This is good news because it will not only help detect a true pregnancy earlier in the gestation period, but it also helps distuinguish between a lost pregnancy and a pseudopregnancy when a cub is not born. Sweet Ya Ya is contributing greatly to the science of saving the giant panda. Three cheers for Ya Ya!
To read the brief article, go to Yahoo search, and type in the following: “Erin Willis” “giant panda” “pregnancy test” There will be one result for a PDF file (requires Adobe Acrobat) on the Memphis Zoo site.
Just watching den shots of his Royal Cuteness Yunior and noted his ears are starting to pop up ….Moderator does he have Moms “Mini Mouse” ears or Dads?It seems like he is attempting to sit like Budha Bear again as well….The first words Lynn asks from her Hospital bed daily are always “how’s the baby?” She asked me if Yunior had Mom’s Perfect Mini ears and I told her I was unable to tell as yet….Keep up the Great Work SDZ and I wish you and all the Pandaholics a very Happy Thanksgiving……
I too would love to see the “kingergarden” training how cute that would be, also i just wanted to know when Yun Zi walks, will the camera follow mom and baby? are they going to be in that same enclosure, it seems small? Just wondering.
Thank you so much,Kathy! This answers all the questions I recently has about Bai Yun & Yun Zi’s going out into the public area. These pandas have really made quite an impression on me. I am really thinking of getting a tattoo on them both on my ankle. The love & bond they share is amazing to me. I’ve learned so much about the Panda in such a few short months. I think what attracted me was I have always loved the colors black & white together. Now I have to find the right picture of them for a tattoo. I already made a t-shirt.
Thanks for all your love for the Pandas & all the animals at the SDZ.
did anyone else see Bai looking for Mr. Chubby last night..Bai seemed to have panicked for awhile and then suddenly the light dawned and she went outside to fetch him.
my very first trip to the sdz was at the age of 3. i am now 52. my favorite spot was the aviary. i think there was only one way back then. i could have sat in there all day. i still could. i’ve always wondered if zoo keepers would walk by every so often to ask if i was o.k. if i did sit there all day. is there a law against loitering in the bird cage? lol. so with the panda cams and all other, i can and stare at my fav animals all day without one concerning stare back. any cams for the big cats in the near future?
Moderator’s note: Loitering is allowed! No cams for big cats yet, as it’s very costly!
This was a really informative post. Had always wondered what was going on behind the scenes with cub and keeper interactions. Clearly, what you are doing is working, since, from the beginning, Yun Zi has seemed very comfortable with being handled. Thanks.
To all the keepers who keep all the pandas happy who keep all of us panda nuts going, a very Happy Thanksgiving to all – keepers, pandas and fellow pandaholics. To those in distress, we are thinking of you and wishing you the very best.
Do you all feel that part of his training will be to be able to sit outside of the den and call to him and have him to come out to you? I mean I know you all call to the bears and they come over to you for exams and such but is that the start of their training at this age? Or are you still in the stage of him just getting to know you are there to be nice and good to him? I have trained many dogs but never a “wild” animal. Is there much of a difference?
Thank you, Kathy, for a wonderful description of panda kindergarten. You have a fantastic job and I am really jealous. However, I realize that it is not such an easy job teaching the youngsters the “ropes” (which Bai Yun will do once Yun Zi can climb). I was just playing with words. Lately I have been watching a lot of TV-documentations on zoos. Whatever animal it is – even reptiles – they get addressed by their keepers. I found this quite amazing regarding non-mammals or birds. But I think it makes a lot of sense. I guess when talking and making signs to the animal a connection and bond will be created between them. I think with mammals it is a lot easier. When talking to my cats sometimes I thought outsiders must think I am “nuts”. Therefore, I was relieved to know that this human behaviour seems to be quite normal for pet owners. #84 Susan (UK), I agree, when feeling down I got into the habit of not only talking to my cats but stroking their fur which is definitely therapeutic for me and makes me feel better. My cats also know when I am sad. When I had a loss in my family they did console me by staying close to me. May be it is true that they and other animals have got a 6th sense.
When watching Yuni now I can hardly believe how he has grown. Not long ago he was just like a “stick of butter” and the difference between Bai Yun and him was enormous. Now cuddling up with mom in the den he takes up a lot of room, this cute mini panda. I just love him to bits!
Thank you Bobbie Wood, I am glad you liked my tribute to Fu Long. I watched all the videos of you bloggers and some did move me a lot particularly the one when Fu Long stretches out on Yang Yang’s back after he returned from his transport box. Apparently he has started to settle down and is getting used to his new keeper. Eveline Dungl has been teaching him concerning Fu Long’s favourite leckerlis etc. and will stay for another 10 days to get Fu Long used to his new surroundings, lucky Fu Long! I have to go now in order not to miss an Austrian TV-doc (45 minutes long) about Fu Long from his birth up to his arrival in China. I will keep my hanky handy! #27 Jane, my thoughts are with you and your dad. #65 Widget, lately I heard that is is becoming a fashion now that older ladies date much younger man. So it seems that the same applies to young male pandas!
Echoing sentiments of earlier posts in this blog, I send my best wishes to all SDZ staffers, fellow bloggers, and critters (particularly the Family Gao). Safe travels and Happy Thanksgiving.
When little Yun Zi is crawling, etc., can someone post some videos of it for us panna fans that are blocked from the cam? It would be soooo appreciated! I miss the little guy and now am missing is “first steps” due to lack of animal “lovetry” at the office!
It looks like Yunior is currently talking in his sleep (and smiling)!!!! I wish we could hear those little noises.
Wow: for a veteran of all the cubs, etc…I never realized all this happened. This even enhances your job and inyensifys the envy.
I do believe that Bai knows your there and feels safe with all of you. Even thouugh
she practices her panda instincts she knows she and her babies are always safe. She loves having cubs and I think she loves it because we love it and are so proud of her.
The key is “love”… it just keeps going round and round. Give and take….
Now we want you to show us when this happens…I know I’d love a DVD of this…
any possibility?
To all of you that are sick or have love ones fighting surgery etc…I am sending my love and light…our little universe is sure going through trials and tribulations….
I like the vison and vibes of 2010…it feels like it’s even and balanced….
Although I don’t know any of you…I feel a tremendous love….humans, and pandas!!!!
Su Lin is looking exceedingly gorgeous on Cam 3.
when is the next exam video coming?
Moderator’s note: It should be up later today. These things take a while to process. New exam photos are now in the Panda Photo Gallery!
Will Yun Zi be getting a vet’s exam this week or will he get a break for Thanksgiving?
What a great story, I can’t wait to see him in kindergarten. He’ll pass with flying colors, he’s so smart. He’s moving around so much now.
Did my favourite little guy have an exam today? I can’t wait for the video to come up so I can watch him. Too bad they aren’t a little longer. Can they be longer?
Moderator #52: Your typos…that….you fixed? Nice job. Yun Zi seems to not like his cleaning time! He is kicking his momma full in the face! Ouch! I am glad that I am not Bai Yun. (What a hard life!) I want to be Yun Zi, though! (I would love to be as careless as he is, and I would love to be talked to.)
Which camera is 27? I don’t see it on the list and thought it might be Bai Yun’s garden room.
Moderator’s note: Cameras #27, 28, and 29 have been added to the Cam list; they show the classroom exhibit.
Slightly off-topic… but who is cam 27 showing? That one is not on the list that tells us who’s who.
Moderator’s note: The info has just been added. Cam 27 is the classroom exhibit.
Dear Panda Family, Moderator, Pandas, SDZ Staff
I would like to take this moment to wish you all the Happiest, Healthiest Thanksgiving you have ever had. I’m doing it today because many of us will be beginning our cooking tomorrow in order to have everything ready for Thursday. I hope that maybe our beloved pandas will get a special treat for Thanksgiving too. If it is possible, I am sure the staff at the SDZ will find a way to do it. You have no idea what comfort I find in knowing how loved the animals at the zoo really are by the people taking care of them. Thank you for loving the animals as you all do. I hope someday I actually get to come to the zoo in person. It would be a dream come true for me. Well, please know that as we are all thinking of what we are grateful for this year, the SDZ animals, especially the pandas, and the SDZ staff will be among my list of things.
Love and hugs to all
The first picture of Yun Zi in the photo gallery is wonderful! The paw resting on his head is so cute! How lucky are the vets that they get to palpate his adorable feet?! Sigh…
I echo what Susan #108 said re: Su Lin looking gorgeous. I saw her curled up earlier and she was beautiful, as always. I think I saw Bai in the classroom again, stripping bamboo culm and chomping away while enjoying the sunshine on her face. It’s great to see her zesty appetite!
Great Blog! I haven’t been able to lure myself away from the camera to read it before now. This little guy (I still have a hard time calling him by his name) is so active today! He’s finally laying there quietly (w/his Mickey Mouse ears on). I think he’s watching his mom from afar but he’s just too tired now to get up and go. He was doing some serious exercising on his back. I thought maybe you guys taught him how to clap w/his feet in school this morning because he was doing a lot of that. It was pretty cute. I imagine you all talking baby talk, telling him good morning. Asking him if he had a good nap? Where’s his momma? Etc…. You know the same way we talk to our own babies.
Following Yun Zi’s birth, I didn’t get anything done around here because I was constantly watching the Panda cam.
I should have known it would get worse as he got more active! Now I wish could have that time back. Its similar to maternity leave. I would rather have had the time off when my kids were 5-6 months old, and actually beginning to do things like crawling, sitting up, etc… because all they do is sleep for the first few months. Now, I’m really not going to want to miss a thing.
Right now there’s a beautiful picture of Su Li (I think, there’s a bunch of boo in the way), sitting in the sunshine, on the grass eating her boo. Double fisted eater, of course! Maybe it’s exam day for Yunior?!? I hope so.
I just want to say how THANKFUL I am to the SD ZOO & STAFF for your love, and commitment in EVERYTHING you do to contribute towards making our ZOO THE BEST! I’m a native of San Diego, and have had the privilege of being a card member most all of my life. I can’t begin to tell you just how much joy it has brought me. The memories w/my father (God rest his soul), I’ll cherish forever. Just a few: I remember the first time I got lost, I was about 4 or 5, it was right near the picnic tables in front of the Children’s Zoo. I was walking on a short wall or, I think some painted white rocks, looking down crying softly. I wouldn’t tell anybody. It was probably only 5 min. but it felt like 30! My family had just gone to the bathroom, and I didn’t follow. Then I had my 8th B-day party there. I have a picture of all of us on the big bronze turtle (it was in the children’s zoo at the time. I think it’s a rhino now) w/all my friends wearing our pointy birthday hats. HA! And guess what? We’re going there in a couple weeks for MY son’s 17th B-day! So my father’s appreciation of the zoo was passed on to me, and I in turn passed that on to both of my son’s, age’s 17 & 23, who visit the zoo w/out me all the time. Oops, sorry I got off track going down memory lane for a second.
Have a GREAT THANKSGIVING everybody! God Bless!
Love, Nancy
Moderator’s note: Thanks for sharing your Zoo memories, Nancy! (And that bronze tortoise is still there, ready to help make more!)
The first picture in the gallery looks like YunZi is thinking ” A whole week has gone by since my last one? Oh no….another exam with these blue hoomans? Where has the time fleww!??”.
Just went through the Panda Gallery pictures of Yun Zi, and I must say he is absolutely the cutest thing ever – but then, we knew that, eh? I swear this little boy has got the happiest disposition, and it sure seems like he just smiles at everything. There are so many pictures of him just grinning from ear to ear at the camera… oh what a show off he is! Watch out, mama Bai, this little one is a handful!
I saw Su Lin earlier in the morning, poking her nose out from underneath a tree branch, almost as though she wanted to play hide and seek but couldn’t make up her mind whether that or the bamboo was more fun. She sure is a stunning looking panda.
To all of you helpers, moderators, vets, and the panda fans, I wish you all a wonderful Thanksgiving! I am so grateful for the gift of all you in my life, and the care you give not only the little one, but all the pandas. Thank you, and blessings to all of you!
# 116 Melissa, my theory is that he saw the measuring tape, that’s why he holds his head!! And I am sure the staff had quite a task trying to measure him…
I agree with Melissa #116 about that picture. That is one armful of panda cub, arms and legs sticking out all over the place. So cute, for all of those lucky souls who get to palpate, measure, carry, talk to, or otherwise interact with him!
Su Lin looked all dreamy in her tree and Bai looked queenly in her classroom space earlier today. I hope Miss ZZ and Mr. Gao Gao are enjoying what looks like a gorgeous day in San Diego
zz doesn`t move.
Does anyone know what is going on at AZ? I noticed that Xi Lan has been by himself for quite some time. He looked so lonesome and looked like he was looking his mother.
I am going to be volunteering at Bifengxia, China, with the Giant Pandas for 3 weeks in January. If anyone is interested in how to do that, email me. (Through a volunteer organization based in England)
Moderator’s note: Donna, we can’t provide your e-mail in this comment section. Is there a Web site for those interested in more info?
Someone on Facebook published the link to this blog, so happy I found you, thank you for sharing info on your wonderful efforts to save this awesome animal!
13th.exam : 13th Exam
Little Yun Zi, a day shy of 16 weeks old, had his 13th exam on November 24. He weighed 14.5 pounds (6.6 kilograms) and sported a dozen teeth! “Yunior” also received his final vaccination with nary a whimper.
If I figure it out a kilogram = 2.54 pounds (2.54 X 6.6 = 16.764 Pounds )….Yunior is growing fast…..12 Teeth ….Wow!!
Moderator’s note: One kilogram equals 2.2046 pounds.
#123 Judy in Texas – re what’s happening at AZ. Seems like they are starting the weaning process for Xi Lan. I don’t like this stage very much – I feel sorry for mom and cub as you can sometimes tell they are missing each other. But that’s how it goes. I’ll have to watch the AZ cam more often now.
The video of Yuni’s 13th exam is so fun – I especially enjoyed watching him walk towards the end of the table. It looked like he was pretty sure that Kathy would catch him when he got close to the edge. He is growing so fast. I was watching him in the den then afternoon, on his back, arms and legs flailing in all directions and yawning as if he hadn’t had any sleep. I don’t think he and Bai will fit in that den for much longer. I have a feeling he’ll be out on exhibit soon – likely in the classroom to start with. I understand they have to put in some cub-friendly planting in the exhibit area before mom and cub can go out there.
Aunt Nancy (#117)–I always have the pandas cams open on one side of my monitor, & use the other side for less important things, like email or paying bills, lol. That way I can always keep one eye on the pandas.
I’ve been lucky enough to see photos taken at the zoo of the keepers interacting with the pandas. The most recent were of my Precious Zhen Zhen getting back scratches through the fence. I swear, both keeper & Zhennie were smiling from ear to ear!
As always, thanks for the wonderfuly, newsy update on our favorite little man.
To all the posters facing problems with their health or in their family you are in my prayers. In fact I pray for the people on this site daily. And of course for all the animals and caretakers at the SDZ.
Happy Thanksgiving one and all! I’m thankful for each of you and I’m thankful that God gave us pandas. He out-did Himself on the cuteness scale when they were put on the Earth.
About 1:30pm San D time, I just tuned in to see Bai and Yun together in the sun room. Or is that the “garden room”?
Great color close ups. Anyone know if she took him out there? Or did he find his way himself?
I think Yun zi is a very cute panda, I mean have you seen his cute little face??!!
i have been watching the panda cam alot and i have noticed that yun zi has been walking in and out! the mommy has left him a few times and the zookeepers had 2 go put him back in
Just watching the interaction between Bai Yun and baby Yun Zi is very enjoyable. She brings him out to the garden room – tosses him around and then brings him back. The attraction between the two is very enriching to see two animals so close together.
Have to get back to work|
Happy panda watching.
Shirley
I wish parents would take this kind of time with their kids! It’ll be fun watching his personality as he develops. Love the cam and the updates.
#96 Dennis & Lynn Carney (NJ)
I think his ears look more like Bai’s, but as he grows and changes, that could change, too. I have seen past cubs at some stages look like Dad, then later look like Mom.
#102 Tina in SC
Right now, he is at the stage of just getting to know his keepers. This is the best age to start socializing with the cubs in general. You have to wait until they are at an age when they are starting to explore outside the den. This is also a good age, as Bai is more relaxed: now that her baby is older, she can feel comfortable enough to leave him
for long periods. We then take that opportunity to interact with him.
We give him choices and never put him on the defensive. I think the training is pretty similar in some respects to domestic animals, but with a twist: exotic animals definitely use their primal instincts in situations.
When you can understand the behaviors of the animal you take care of, it sets you up to relate to that animal on its own terms. Patience is the biggest key in all this. I show salukis, an exotic-natured dog, so my approach to training is slow: set the animal up for success, and
know when to end the session, particularly if the animal is showing signs of stress. But we try to end a session before this happens.
My sessions with Yun Zi last anywhere from a few minutes to
10 minutes; it all depends on what he will allow me to do. Hope this answers your question.
Watching Yun Zi wobble around going in and out of the den. Such an explorer. : )
Panda has been my name on the internet since ’94 when I went into a chat session. I have watched all the babies esp. Su Lin. I taught 2nd grade during that year and my class watched and used her as a Science project. We wanted to take a field trip to see her but the school decided it was too far and expensive. I hope to come over to see this chunky monkey boy as soon as he is out. At age 4 I was given my first panda who was as tall as me. I now have over 200 from and inch high blown glass one to a fully life sized one. At 65 I still LOVE the pandas. Kathy, I love to read your updates. Prayers for all on the blogg who need them. God bless and keep you.
Thank you Kathy for another look behind the scenes. I sure enjoy hearing about how you all take care of our pandas and interact with them. I hope you all are having a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday!! Virtual hugs to all of you on the blog who need them this week!
hello panda team. as i watch su lin eating her breakfast, looking mellow without a care, i again am overcome with the desire to ‘pet’ her. lol. just to find her favorite spot and give her a good long scratch is a pretty normal need in we humans but how do the pandas as a wild animal react to this? are the pandas a naturally mellow animal? do they need to be taught how to allow a humans touch? and if so are the pandas at sdz for example ever too dangerous to be in the enclosure with? we see people hanging all over their ‘pet’ big cats in las vegas all the time. i believe that at the sdz you would rather respect the panda and all animals as animals and not treat them as humans.
Panda Team responds: We always have “protected contact,” meaning a safety fence between panda and keeper. Even though they look cute and cuddly, they are bears and have the potential to injure. We do go in with the cubs up to a year, and by then a yearling panda can be very rambunctious, and those teeth and claws, even in play mode, could hurt a human.
Just wondered why Yun Zi has no verbal stimuli or don’t they play with things like colored balls, etc as the Polar bears do??
Thanks.
Moderator’s note: He has plenty of verbal stimuli; Yun Zi can hear the keepers talking to him, his mother, each other. And he’ll soon be ready for a toy or two!
Checking in on Sonny every morning I am so grateful to you Kathy for your information : He has certainly brought out the desire to cuddle him from day one. Looking forward to seeing him with a toy. He seems to amuse himself by touching his toes every once in awhile. You are very fortunate to have this kind of a job.I am sure you enjoy it .
Hello! We live in Russia. With a great interest we observe of the baby Yun Zi. All many thanks and greetings from Moscow.
Moderator’s note: Welcome to the wonderful world of pandas, Natasa!
Re:my November 24 comment.Volunteer organization that I am going through to do volunteer work with Giant Pandas in Bifengxia is called Real Gap. Bigengxia is the center where the Wolong Pandas were sent after the earthquake. I will be preparing and serving themfood, cleaning their enclosures, helping to provide medical care, observing and doing research. I am flying from Rochester,NY, 8600 miles, 20 hours of flying. Leave 1/1 and back 1/24. Can’t wait to get there!
The panda is so cool and i love the name Yun ZI .
The panda is so cool and i love the name Yun ZI .
The panda is so cool and i love the name Yun ZI .
The panda is so cool and i love the name Yun ZI .