Birdsong filled the chilly morning air, and we spoke in hushed tones. “Has he been awake? Has he moved at all?” Such were the burning questions as Bai Yun rested comfortably in the fork of a tree and her beloved son Yun Zi slept like a log curled up in a ball on a low-rider hammock below her. If he would just stretch or lift his head, I knew I’d melt with cuteness, but alas, I had to settle for a sweet little black furry ear poking up. Employees came and went, grateful for the “sneak peek” even if there wasn’t much to peek at except two slumbering forms.
Researchers stood by, clipboards in hand, their timers chiming every two minutes for panda behaviors to be jotted down. The “Sleep” column was filling up fast. Quite an activity budget for the morning! The street sweeper went by, brushes twirling, motor roaring, and I secretly hoped it would rouse Yun Zi from his slumber. Nope. The first Skyfari car silently passed overhead, and I knew we were on borrowed time. As the Balboa Park clock tower began its stroke-of-nine song, I silently wished that morning toll would be just the tickle to wake the sleeping bears. But, no. Not even a twitch. The Zoo may be open at 9 a.m. but that doesn’t mean the cub’s eyes will be open! We filed out quietly, leaving the bears to their dreams. Maybe tomorrow we’ll catch them playing…or sleeping.
Karyl Carmignani is a staff writer for the San Diego Zoo.
Note: Yun Zi’s public debut is Thursday, January 7. The classroom exhibit will be open from 9 a.m. to noon each day. But remember: there are no guarantees that Yun Zi will be awake!
Video now posted of Yun Zi’s media preview day!
Oh Well….Bears will be Bears and I guess Yunior will need the flash of Pandarazzi cameras and his admiring throng of GPF’s to make his grand debut….LOL…..I only wish that we could be amongst the adniring throng but Lynn is still in the Medical Facility 3 1/2 hours away but is finally awake and talking and first question was how is Yunior?…For all the lucky GPF’s that get to see our Superstar and Supermom on the first days of viewing , let us know if the Panda prince is as charming in person as he is on the web, and please post pictures if possible….DoxieMom Thanks in advance as I’m sure you’ll keep the Global Pandaholic Fan’s unable to be there updated with your outstanding videos……
I might be able to be on line a little bit more this upcoming week as my new job is in the process of restructuring and I have a week to 10 days of time off while this happens and hopefully will still have a job….After 25+ years in the Automotive Industry I’m getting tired of the economic peaks and valleys and their relationship to finding full time employment….
” Panda Peace on Earth,and Goodwill to All Living Things…..”
Oh, how very exciting for all the Pandaholics that can be there on Thursday. If they get a glimpse of him, that is!!! Still what a thrill to see 4 of the Panda Family on exhibit at the same time.
Dianne in TX had mentioned a while back that we needed a Pandaholics Convention. Any news in that direction, Dianne? Or anybody else? My husband goes to many conventions in his job. This would be the perfect excuse to go to San Diego—a convention of Pandaholics of which I truly am an addicted member!!
Got to see Su Lin on panda cam. How wonderful to get a glimpse of her.
Love the cub!! Can’t wait to see him in person, counting the hours, minutes, seconds.
Can’t wait to see him rolling around and playing! (or sleeping, I suppose
Aww! Love ya Yun Zi! You are the joy of my life! Thanks to the staff od SDZ too.
I LOVE YUN ZI and can’t get enough of him! He must be resting up for the big event Thursday, smart boy that he is.
How I wish I could be there on Thursday to see little Yun Zi! I envy all of you who can see him in person. Hugs and kisses to Bai Yun and Yun Zi.
Lucky bears catching their Zs.
Best of luck #1 Dennis and Lynn! I think a panda convention would be great #2 Diana S.
How many days old is Yun Zi today?
Moderator’s note: He’ll be 22 weeks old tomorrow, so he is 153 days old today (if I did my math correctly!).
Can’t wait to see his furry, roly, poly, tootsie next week!!!!
More, More!
Karyl, loved your wonderfully descriptive journal entry. I can just picture that black furry ear poking up!
Thank you. Made my day.
who ever lives there is soooo LUCKY!!!! I wish I could be there..I’d go there every weekend for the SDZ animals to enjoy
Thanks Karyl, I’m glad that the pandas treat the staff the same as they treat the public. The last time I was there I tried 3 times before getting to see Zhen Zhen and Bail Yun awake. I will admit that my legs looked so much slimmer after going up and down the canyons so much.
Linda A – #268 last blog. Hope your cold gets better soon and yes, I remember you mentioned that you had seen the pictures. Doug from Thai-Panda is going up to Chiang Mai in a couple of months and he said he would check out the complex/buildings and report back on any changes. Hopefully lots of pictures too.
Was Bai Yun pacing so much because the staff were going by looking for the first time?
Moderator’s note: Staff have had access to view the classroom exhibit for a few days now. Bai was probably anticipating a fresh delivery of bamboo!
What is Yun Zi doing on the platform in Bai Yun’s Bedroom? He looks awake but he’s not moving.
How wonderful that Yun Zi has such a huge following, and is so loved.
Does anyone have an update on when he might debut to the public? Thanks!
Moderator’s note: It’s noted at the bottom of this post: Thursday, January 7, 9 a.m. to noon.
Iam watching our little guy and yes he is sleeping. But first time I ever saw he sleep sitting up.
Well, I chuckle at how this cub has imposed his own biological clock on ours. I guess I would counsel not to stress too much on being there at 9!
Greetings from Adelaide
Thank you to all SDZ staff and to your pandas for allowing me to visit every day – I have been truly blessed over the past 5 months watching the progress of Yun Zi and meeting Bai, Su and ZZ as well as all of your other wonderful animals.
I have been to visit Wang Wang and Funi ( this time in person) 3 times now – the last time was New Years Day early am – very smart – only 60 members there so we had the most wonderful, close and intimate moments observing these 2 magnificent creatures. They have finished their quarantine and I believe that they will soon have an opportunity to venture into their outdoor enclosures – unfortunately we are about to enter yet another heat wave – ove 41 degrees all weekend so their temperature controlled indoors I think will be their favourite spot over the next week.
My last visit I also had an opportunity for a lengthy chat with a senior staff member at Adelaide Zoo – which was amazing – he was surprised by my panda knowledge and equally amazed when I told hime I learnt everything from our GPF and from the website.
Best wishes to you all especially Dennis – please pass on lots of Adelaide hugs to Lynn
Watching our little roly poly boy growing by leaps and bounds is a joy. I’ve peeked in on him every day since he was born except one day…and it drove me crazy that I missed him. Thanks for the gift you have given all of us panda watchers with this wonderful web site.
sleeping, awake, playing, dreaming, napping, eating, cuddling or muddling – I’ll take that little cloud any which way! he’s the only cloud that actually brightens every day no matter what he is doing
we love you Yun Zi and wish you and mama Bai the best for your big debut!
finally, Yun Zi is going to meet with the fans!!!! Can’t wait to see him!!!!
Yeah!! I am so proud of MY Yun Zi.
It was funny when he hit his momma earlier 
While I am writing this Yun Zi is sleeping. He sure loves his sleep. That is so he can play when he is up. He is just the cutest and lovable Panda. Hope to see him out for his debut or asleep if he wants to. It is Yun Zi’s choice.
Boy, oh boy!
My birthday is January 18th. I have requested to visit the S.D. zoo to spy my little guy and his family…..
What a great birthday gift for me!
Yun ZZZZZZ is correct! He sleeps through the Street Sweeper! Wow! My bunnies can’t do that. They are an entirely different species!
For those of you West of here (NY) if this gets posted in time… ABC evening news with Diane Sawyer has a piece toward the end about the 10 panda cubs. Need I say cute?
Good luck to all you lucky fans that get to see Yun Zi in person either awake or asleep from thursday onwards. Only way i will get to see him is on the pandacam.
Bai Yun you sure have one very handsome cubby
I definately, with all my heart, think you moved Yu Zi out of the nest way to sooooon. It’s obvious, by all his milestones, or lack of, he is way behind his older bro’s and sisters. I think you should still let him in the nest. The zoo and the baby panda may suffer for this. I hope not though.
Moderator’s note: Yun Zi still has access to the den and he decides whether to come out to the classroom exhibit or not (unless Mom carries him out, of course). Please don’t worry!
4:51pm. I think Yun Zi is channelling Michael Jackson! That definitely looked like the ‘moon walk’ as he backed away from mom’s droppings, and then there was a bit from ‘Killer’ as he got to his favorite pipe in the corner!!!! Now I’m even more impressed with this little guy. He can dance – can he sing too??
He is so funny to watch. Hours of amusement for all of us, whether he’s sleeping or awake!
Hugs to little cloud….what a cute furr ball……kisses! kisses!
When can we catch him in his hammock?? I remember
when Zhennie would go up in hers and sleep, so sweet!
He may be sleeping when the zoo is open, but it is now 5:20PM and Mom wants to sleep, but Yunior is wide awake. She has corraled him behind her on the sleeping shelf. He’s not going for it. You may need to change the zoo hours to match his schedule LOL.
China’s Global Times has a couple of articles now about pandas. One is about wild animals being trained to accept medical treatment without anesthesia. It shows a young panda having its nails trimmed (through enclosure bars), sitting up for its manicure. Question: Do the SDZ pandas need their nails cut or are they outside enough that it happens naturally?
Should I have said pedicure?
Thanks!
Moderator’s note: They don’t need to have their nails cut.
I was just watching the kid wanting to get down from the platform but he just couldn’t decide how to do it Looked like he might have been calling to Mom because she showed up shortly.
When I view the videos fans have linked us to, of pandas, they have sound and are making a lot of noise here and there. So I assume our guy has made lots of noise over issues.
I was also surprised to see the keepers just walking amongst all the cubs, cleaning and feeding. They sure are casual about it all over in China.
Are all those cubs orphans? Or do they take them from the mothers at a certain age?
Sure a lot of them if they are orphans.
I tried to watch the “Pathetic Panda” video but after a few seconds, it seemed too sad to me. Poor baby was bleating for someone to help it. Don’t know where it is but it was on concrete next to a step….at that stage where the back legs won’t allow for climbing up.
Just couldn’t watch the entire video.
If the cub is asleep in the mornings, then perhaps it won’t be worth it to rush to the zoo at 9 AM.
The local news made the announcement about his debut so I bet the crowds will be out this weekend.
It is now 5:26 and Bai has left Yunior on the shelf. He is trying to figure out how to go down the log. So far he has considered backing down it, and crawling down. He is too cute trying to solve this dilema of how to get down.
Poor baby, mom left him on platform at about 5:25 pm and he has tried to get down by backing onto the log…..he just can’t seem to figure out how to do it……so he slowly went to his corner, put his forehead down on the ground and fell asleep.
I guess he knows what plopping off the platform feels like by now and he doesn’t want to do it again!
I feel so sad for him that Mom won’t get him down. Wonder why she has him up so high when she takes hiim off lower places in the classroom? He is safer in the den than on that platform!
Someone help our baby off the platform! I have been watching him trying to figure out how to get down without falling. He just cannot get back down the tree branch. He gives up and takes a nap. I think he barked and Bai came up for awhile and then left. It made him want to get down even more though. I wish sooo much I could see his debut, he is adorable and I just love Bai. She comes in and just gets a hug and cuddle from him and then leaves again. Too precious. I hope everyone gets to see him awake a little bit, but he is one little boy who loves his rest. Cannot say I blame him.
SDZ, why not have a drive to update cams in the classroom? I am sure many pandaholics such as myself would be happy to donate. Living so far this is my only chance to see the little one in action!
Moderator’s note: Thanks to readers’ suggestions, we are looking into this.
I just checked on our Cutie, and observed pole dancing, scent marking (is that possible at this age?), a head stand and S-L-E-E-P!
Thanks, Lee, #13, for understanding. Today is actually my birthday, and here I sit with a cold with a truly foggy head. But I’m truly excited about Doug’s upcoming visit. Can’t wait to get an update on Lin Ping.
I sent my husband a post card of my favorite pole dancer today with the caption “I have to see him.” I got the response of “OK.” So, OK, panda convention it is!
I just located from 2005 pictures of Pan Pan’s 25th. Birthday Celebration this has the most pictures I’ve seen ….. kcra dot com
Wow , you can really see why he is called the Father of most of the Pandas in captivity as Bai Yun does resemble her father…..
“Panda Peace on Earth,Goodwill to All Living Things….”
Yeah, I’ll be there on January 22.
ohhhhhhhhhhhhhhh thank you thank you thank you for this latest update. i love them. i am one of the lucky humans who only lives a mere 2 hours away. so weather YUN ZI is awake or not i’ll know he’s oh so close. i’ll be happy to see any one of them! i can’t wait. yippee!!!!!!!!!!!!
I would be happy just to see him in person asleep or awake. That little ball of fur is adorable in any form.
Aww…
I also found pictures of Bai Yun’s Mother Dong Dong a Grand Dame of a Panda… on a blog called Chet’s Chatter.
17% of all Pandas in Captivity are said to be children of Pan Pan….As per Pandaslive :
http://www.pandasliveon.com/giantpandas/san-diego-panda-family-co.html
It’s no wonder why Bai Yun is a Supermom as she comes from Super Parents…..So we can see the difficulty factor in Breeding Pandas to not be inbred when the majority of Captive Pandas might owe some genetic ties to Pan Pan….
This is why Bai Yun’s babies are very important in genetic diversity as they come from wild born Father’s Shi Shi, and Gao Gao….Without this factor Pandas run the risk of genetic defects and diseases caused by inbreeding….So SDZ’s Hua Mei,Mei Sheng,and Su Lin will help in the diversity of breeding future generations of Pandas so we can still hopefully have them around to enjoy for years to come…. We all should applaud SDZ and all the Researchers that are in the forefront of saving our precious black and white Bears …So don’t weep as we say goodbye to our Babies from SDZ,NZ,AZ and Austria as they all will help ensure the survival of what us Pandaholic’s can’t get enough of,our now teenaged babies that will soon join the others in preserving the species….
“Panda Peace on Earth,Goodwill to All Living Things…..”
OMG! OMG! OMG! I MIGHT BE ABLE TO GO TO SD FOR SUMMER VACATION, AND I COULD SEE HIM!!! OMG OMG OMG HE IS SOOOOOOOOOOOOO CUTE
Bobbie Wood – how I envy you – to spend a day at the SDZ & then recharge your batteries for another panda day – we expect a minute by minute update, news of Yun Zi & how Bai reacted to all the fuss.
# 19 Jan – Hey Jan – bet you are having fun visiting the pandas -do have QUESTION though – from what I’ve read – there don’t seem to be as many visitors as expected to view our wonderful pandas – or did I mis understand.
Moderator’s note: Weekdays during the winter are not busy times for the Zoo. I expect there will be a larger number of visitors to view Yun Zi over the weekend
i can not wait for Yun Zi to be on exhibit with the other Giant Panda’s, before you will know it he will be moving on to China, but until then we can awake everyday to his playful and sleepy joyfulness attitude.
Thank you Karyl. I could picture it all. And I don’t care if he’s sleeping. I’ll be in line to catch my first “glimpse”. Even if it’s only his ears.
I’ve been watching the pandas here since Zhen Zhen was 19 days old, but I’ve never posted a comment. I thought I’d entroduce my self. On March 1st, 2006, I got some baby chicks. One of them turned out to be a Beautiful Golden Rooster that I named Goldie. He was very special to me, and I held Him and played with Him nearly every day of his life! Then one day, (August 3rd, 2007, when Zhen was born) some dogs atacked my chickens and killed Goldie. I was heartbroken. Finding Zhen gave me something to distract be. I finally got to see her in real life in December 2008! Here’s a link to my video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pgT_S0v4obo
I also watched Xi Lan and Yun Zi grow up. They are very special creatures!
what has happened to our live web cam on yun zi and mama?
I keep thinking about how Bai brought Yun Zi out at night, even when he was really little. I think she turned him into a night owl, I mean Panda, and now his clock is completely off. I wonder what they will do during the night as he gets older? He must love the stars and all the sleepy sounds in the night-time, listening to other animals. Apparently he wants to remain mysterious!!! I love him so much!
I wish I could be there Thursday–even if all I saw was the tip of one fuzzy little ear!
HEY what about us night people, we cant see without a “night light” but I guess that would be too expensive just for fans to watch animals. I will have to wait for the weekend to see the daylight I guess….just don’t take away my new found joy, the animal cams….
I remember lots of talk in the blogs when Miss ZZ went on exhibit that come 9 a.m. both Bai and ZZ would be napping, as if on cue. Gotta figure out a way to fool them–though that’s not too likely as I’m sure Bai would know that you were trying to trick her!
Anyway–I hope the viewers will get to see Yun Zi in action and that he will take to the crowds like his proud papa. So exciting!
What a post about slumbered pandas! Thanks SDZ! Yunior is an incredible cub who will be full of wisdom from his terrific Mom and Keepers. The best panda cubs are sleeping cubs. To witness in person the rise and fall of a panda cubs tummy as they dream “sweet panda dreams”. To marvel at the sight of a sleeping panda or one awake are moments to take in. Having visited all four US Zoo’s with pandas…sometimes just to admire them catching a snooze gives you a whole new perspect on the serenity they bring to us.
Thank you Jan Cecchi, Adelaide, South Australia for the wonderful post! The Zoos worldwide come together when it comes to GP’s. I pay a lot of tribute to Panda Keepers worldwide and what they do to bring us live cams and updates!
GP’s can stop you in your tracks…making you laugh out loud. A bad day suddenly becomes not so bad afterall!
GP’s are good for the soul!!
I have a friend from work going to SD next week. She will be so happy to know Yunior will be making his debut. I am excited for her. She knows my obsession with Bai Yun & Yun Zi, I hope she can get a picture for me. Yunior is like me …. likes to sleep a lot…..lol
I heard mentioned that they would only be on exhibit in the AM. When will this change to all day? Also, are their any special perks for persons who have adopted the Pandas, such as better or longer viewing? Where will the other Pandas be when Bai and Yun Zi are on exhibit?
Moderator’s note: We don’t have a date yet on when Yun Zi will be on exhibit all day. Su Lin and Zhen Zhen continue to be in the main viewing areas; Yun Zi and Bai Yun are in the usually closed classroom exhibit.
lol… I m sure little cloud is very smart! What’s better than sleep till’ noon on winter days?! I wish i could too… xD
I am so excited that the exhibit with Yun Zi and Bai Yun will finally open! I am going to try to get to the zoo around 10am, however I will not be able to stay long.
I was at the zoo on 28 December and realized it was a mistake once I saw the line for the pandas. I had forgotten that a bowl game was playing in San Diego, as well as people visiting for the Rose Bowl. The line took about 15-20 minutes and I saw the beautiful Su Lin and Zhen Zhen having an afternoon snack. If you are familiar with the layout of the way the lines snake around, I stopped and watched Su Lin for a while on my way out. She stopped eating and turned her head and looked right at me. I melted and froze. I could have kicked myself for not getting a picture of her! Gao Gao always does that when I visit him.
I have found a wonderful two-part video about our very own Hua Mei. I wish there were subtitles in English. You might even recognize a few people in the video!
The links are http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BoSRobCGKSs for part one and part two is http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XWFXSa8SGpQ
Yun Zi’s public debut was announced on ABC’s news program “America This Morning” just now. It was great to see Yun Zi on the news but they reported that his debut is today, rather than tomorrow.
Hopefully there won’t be too many fans lined up and ready to see the sleepy muscle man today as a result of their report.
Just ran across some Memphis news…I don’t know if I missed it in the comments in the last couple of days but the Memphis Zoo has announced that Ya Ya underwent an AI around Thanksgiving. They said her hormone profile was much stronger this time and they are hopeful that she may give birth in March, give or take. There is an article and a beautiful picture of Ya Ya in Memphis’ newspaper, the Commercial Appeal.
Wishing Miss Ya Ya and the staff at the Memphis Zoo a smooth and successful pregnancy!
This week, record snowfall and freezing temperatures are reported in China. Do Hua Mei and Mei Sheng receive special care and warm shelter during periods of extremly cold weather? Are Southern-USA-born panda cubs ever able to fully acclimate to China’s harsh weather conditions?
Could you please provide more frequest updates describing Hua Mei’s and Mei Sheng’s lives in China? When will Su Lin have to move there?
Thank you very much for ALL that you do on behalf of pandas everywhere!
Moderator’s note: Even an extremely cold day in San Diego would not be too cold for pandas!
I did my fantasizing yesterday. I looked at the price of tickets to fly from Bangor Maine to San Diego for the debut. Hmmmm, pay the mortgage or see Yun Zi? Hubby said $900.00 was too expensive to fly there. So, I guess I will have to live with the details and pics everyone else will post and tell us about on Friday.
Yun Zi has brought much joy to my life. Bai is such a sweet mom.
Dennis, best of luck with the new job. Restructuring already sounds like they are on the ball.
DoxieMom, thank you for all the youtube videos, you are amazing. I could take lessons from you and I work in IT.
Moderators, make sure you rest up before the debut, I have a feeling you are going to be swamped with comments on Friday.
More snow expected here today, but a very little amount. It will freshen up the 18 inches we have on the ground already. YIPEE!!!
I have been in Idaho since Christmas day … eleven days without even one peek at a panda … but eleven days with the most beautiful baby boy … human baby boy … in the world. I arrived back home in San Diego last night … only to find out that our beautiful Yun Zi will “go public” tomorrow. YES … YES … YES. I didn’t miss his debut.
For Panda Luver 95 (texas) I would like to thank you for sharing your vidie of ZZ as a baby! That is one of the best videos I have seen of her! You made me feel like I was there watching her!!! Thank you from the bottom of my heart!!! I never knew the viewing area was so close to the pandas. Thank you again for sharing! It means so much! Now for the persons that would like to double guess… out think or in any way say our SDZ is not doing something that should be done for our wonderful bears… GO BACK look at the videos… Could you ever find a more dedicated group of people? In the videos of the exams on all the babies you can see the love in everyone’s faces as they work with or just watch the bears. They are professionals above all others! Our wonderful staff has YEARS of working with these animals daily.. not just watching on a computer. They know what is best for the animals… Oh and not to mention they have a few degrees in this field… that allows them to know a little more than the average computer watcher… Please allow them to do what is best for our loved bears.. they all know exactly what they are doing and are taking their wonderful mother BIA WHO WILL KNOW BEST over all… word for it… if Bia didn’t think YZ was ready for the world.. she would let the zoo staff know! Please trust the wonderful EXPERIENCED, trained and KNOWING staff of the zoo do what is best for the animals in their care. Have they messed up yet? Think about it!
Yun Zi is truly known world wide.. I saw a news clip this morning on “America This Morning” and they were announcing that his “debut” is tomorrow. The film clip was from his exam when they found out he was a boy. It’s hard to believe that just a few months ago he was that tiny!!!
Good Luck Yun Zi and Bai Yun.. make us Pandaholics proud of you!!
Check out The Today Show web site to see the news about tomorrow’s debut. ABC GMA had it, too. I brought my little Yun Zi stuffed animal to school today. Had my students watch the Today Show segment on line. Great topic of Zoology, International Relationsh, parenting, so many lesson plans can be used for this adorable little panda. Just too darned cute!
I just talked to my Mom and she said Yun Zi was mentioned on the Today’s Show.. sounds like their film clip was longer… from when he was born and from the exam when he “barked” and playing with Bai… Does he know he’s a famous little fella?
PandaLuver #49: FABULOUS!!!!! Gosh you did indeed have the Perfect Panda viewing day!!! Thank you so much for sending the link! Bai and Zhen did put on a Show
The intro showing the mural was really neat as well…I love to check it out when down in the canyon….You captured the excitement of your visit 
The filming of the pandas is the most enjoyable experience and what fun to be able to watch over and over again!!!Thank You!!!
Be prepared for a huge crowd on Thursday, dear SDZ fellows! Yun Zi always draws a lot of attention
Diana, I’m all for a pandaholic convention! We’ll have to get Kathy as a featured speaker to come and tell us all about the behind-the-scenes doings of our Furry Friends. What fun!
Dennis, good luck with the new job!
I’m ready for tomorrow, whether they’re awake or asleep.
Pan Pan’s 25th.Birthday pictures can be found at : kcra dot com and search Pan Pan and click on the link…..He is the Father of over 17% of all Pandas in captivity and the Grandfather/Greatgrandfather of many more…..If there is a designation of Superstud Panda I guess he is it….LOL….These are finally more than the one head shot that usually comes up of him looking thru an access door when you search Pan Pan…..
“Panda peace on Earth,Goodwill to All Living Things….”
Adelaide Zoo just posted an informative video of a Keeper Panda Interaction of checking Wang Wang’s Temperature at Panda News You Tube.
Now if we can only get them to put their Pandas live on the Web as I hope there is a sponser in Austrailia that would be willing to pay to allow us Pandaholics webcameras,,,,Moderator , Has the SDZ ever considered trying to get Corporate Sponsorship for upgrading your Panda Exhibit like Fuji Films did for the NZ? I’m sure that one of the Movie/Entertainment Businesses in California would be happy to help if approached….That would be a win win proposition for all parties concerned…..
“Panda Peace on Earth,Goodwill to All Living Things…..”
Our local ABC network had a piece on last evening on the baby pandas that were rescued from Wolong during the earthquake by their keepers. The reporter was given access by the Chinese govt. to see these beautiful creatures upclose and personal. I couldn’t believe how friendly and vocal they were and all they wanted to do was play. They went on to tell how much care by their keepers it took to get these babies back to normal after the shock of the Quake. This is a testament to the trust they have in the keepers and the love of these animals that the keepers have.
I also think we need to step up and see what we can do to fix the cam situation after all we are the ones who benefit from it. We did it for the cooler lets see the price and what we can do folks.
I am so looking forward for Thursday. I watched them announce the showing on the Today Show this morning. I watch the pandas everyday on the zoo’s webcam. My little westie loves to sit on my lap in front of the computer and we watch them together. Will be watching diffinitely tomorrow, can’t wait
A panda cub under the Christmas tree, wouldn’t that be anybody’s dream!!! Check the Atlanta Zoo’s website for Monday’s update and the pandacam to see Xi Lan sleeping beside the Christmas tree which has been put on the top beam of the hammock’s structure.
On a sadder and reality hit the fan note, at the NZ you can see the crate in which Tai Shan will be put for his trip back to the land of his ancestors. I saw it on camera I, Tai Shan seems to be more cautious than usual.
Just posted 2 new Yun Zi videos from yesterday:)
When the camera cut to the Classroom, Yun Zi was already most of the way to the top of the tree stump that Bai had pulled him from on Monday! Using a mixure of screen images and video footage, this shows how Yun Zi, in the glare of the sunlight, makes his way down the tree stump!
The link for “Yun Zi Climbs DOWN the Tree Stump!” is:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x_XgdkBQV_Q
The 2nd video mixes footage from the early morning with late afternoon. Yun Zi is still trying to figure out how to get off the Garden Room platform. In the morning we see him climb up, and then back back down the log, without ever getting on the platform! Later in the afternoon he’s either playing with, teething on or trying to figure out how to get on the log!!
The link for “Yun Zi and the Garden Room Log!” is:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hrHJ6r3ggZw
Look forward to hearing about and seeing photos of Yun Zi’s public debut!!!
Looks like Yun Zi passed some climbing milestones this morning. He climbed up the large stump in the Classroom exhibit and was able to climb down. He then tried going back up the way he came down and fell. Next he made it to the top limb of the structure where Bai has been sleeping. Yet to see if he makes it down without falling.
#48 Thanks for the great video. I was watching it with the live cam open in another window. Stereo Bai Yun chowing down with a cub nearby. Yun Zi seems to have made great progress in up and down. It’s getting harder for Mom to park him somewhere so she can go about her business. It’s 8:51 SDZ time, and there is lots of activity. You lucky first-dayers may get a show yet.
Page
Little Yun Zi is so famous!! This morning when I clicked on my MSN.com home page, there he was in a video about his upcoming debut! Check out the Today Show clip on today dot msnbc dot msn dot com.
I envy all of you who live nearby and can see him in person! Have fun!!
I love it. Almost on cue, right after 9:00 a.m., first Yun Zi, then Mom went and lay down for a nap. Also, heard on the Today, the commentator said that Su Lin will go to China later this year.
Hey can you send some warm weather our way? Thanks.
Oh boy! I really want to visit on YZ’s premiere day–can I sneak away from the office for just an hour? I will try and I will call it an early lunch break! I successfully got away to attend his naming ceremony, so it seems fitting to follow up for his public debut. Unless the weather changes, Thursday will be a beautiful day. I have my fingers crossed.
We must wait another 23hrs to see which ‘panda time zone’ Yun Zi decides to use when he makes his first public appearance tomorrow morning – this morning he is working on ‘zzzz’s zone’ sleeping happily on his hammock! Bai is on hand for supervision – I wonder if he will be awake for all his fans.
Bai’s other cubs have had times when they required their sleep however I do not recall any of them sleeping as often as Yun Zi.
It would be great if Bai has another cub in the future or could it be she has left the best until last ~
I have always loved pandas but when Yunior came along I became a pandaholic. I have always popped on to the web cam to just take a look. But when I saw Yunior for the first time I couldn’t take my eyes off him. I had to favorites bar the link. Now I when I come to work and go straight to the page and leave it up all day long. I have redecorated my office in Yunior motif. My boss and co-workers think I’m nuts, which I am. YUNIOR CRAZY!!!!! Though almost daily someone asks about him. Some of them are secret Yunior fans also. I go to San Deigo once a year so I anticipate the day I can see him for myself. Sorry Shamu it’s all about Yunior this year. hehehe Thank you Bai Yun for giving us the most animated and enjoyable ball of fur. Gao Goa and Bai Yun make beautiful cubs together. Angela Phoenix AZ
CNN
has some great footage of our baby boy.
Panda Luver #49–thank you for posting that wonderful up close and personal video with Bai and our precocious Miss ZZ!
Thanks, Dennis #39 for the look at Pan Pan–some of the same pictures as Margaret, I think, found before and a few of him full-body. I hope they let him out of that little cage before long. He seemed to be in fine shape, even at 30, which bodes well for his offspring, I hope.
Jeslyn–those cubs are taken from their mothers at 6 mos. so that the mothers can breed again. I don’t like watching the Pathetic Panda video either. I think it was also taken in China, and I believe I heard that that cub died.
Meanwhile, our little guy did spend a long time trying to conquer the log so he could get down last night, to no avail. But this morning, he climbed up pretty high on the classroom structure before coming down. Guess he’s just going to keep us guessing!
I put in a request to the SDZ for information on getting equipment or sponsorship of the Pandas and needed upgrades to the Facilities….The following is the reply I got back:
We do have corporate sponsors who support our conservation programs. Interested entities can contact our partnership folks through : publicrelations@sandiegozoo.org
Maybe the right Sponsors can help upgrade the Cameras and provide sound like Fuji Film did with the National Zoo upgrade to their facilities….Does anybody have the connections with Corporate Positions able to assist our fine family of Pandas…..
“Panda Peace on Earth,Goodwill to All Living Things…..”
OMG!!! LOLOLOL…..I just watched DoxieMoms latest videos and “again” laughed so hard, my dogs think I’m nuts, again LOL!!!
Our little YunZi not only knows how to entertain himself, but he entertains me and makes my days….. Poor little guy, he wants so bad to get down from the platform…………I know, he will, and when he does, he will be zooming up and down that log to no end………………….
Can’t wait to see the pics and videos of his public debut!!!!! Have a great day all………….
Our panda stars were on TV again this morning Yun Zi and Bai Yun was on the 4th hour of the Today this morning with a quick review from birth to now so adorable.
I was so delighted to see Bai and YunZi on camera but I have to beg you to please sympathize with those of us who want to know what cam is on them. Now I have to leave the picture by scrolling down the page to where the cams and their numbers and Pandas on that cam are located. If you could just put the “cam legend” closer to the actual picture I wouldn’t have to go back and forth because it is so difficult to read the number of the camera I have to try to puzzle out whether I am seeing a CAM 23 or 25 or 26 or 28. The numbers are so fuzzy (even when I zoom in with my monitor) that it is hard to read them. If they were at least on the same “page” as the cam I could just look at the list and the numbers on the cam and make a reasonable guess as to what the actual number is. Since I have to leave the cam picture to see what the options might be it is very hard on me. You used to have the legend in the same frame/page area as the cam and I urge you to consider moving it back there. Thanks for the lovely coverage going on right now of Bai and YunZi playing. I also hope everyone has seen the news clips from China on the post earthquake panda baby boom. It was on TV yesterday so it’s current.
Hazel #83 – Wouldn’t that be a shame if this IS the last cub for Bai Yun? As you said, she may have saved the best until last….
I wouldn’t admit this to many people, but all of you fellow Pandaholics; but when I watch Bai Yun play with her little boy, it brings tears to my eyes. It’s almost like mother animals, are like human mother’s. When they love their babies, they just pour all the love on their babies. Yun Zi (zzzzz) will never know what a fantastic mother he has and how much she DOES love him.
I know there will come a day when she sends her second born son on his way into this world, but for now….I am so thankful to be able to watch such affection between Bai Yun and her precious son, Yun Zi. (Who will always be “Chubby Cubby” to me) She is truly a pro, when it comes to mothering. I know the SDZ keepers and staff feel exactly the same way I do.
If we took a vote, I am sure all of our Pandaholics would also say they feel the same way about Bai Yun. How wonderful it has been for me, to be a part of that miracle Mother Bear’s life. She is awesome. That’s why Baby ZZZZZZ will be a loving young man to all of his ladies, in the future….LOL
Here’s to a great celebration tomorrow…..Yun Zi..enjoy your spot in the applause, son….you and Momma Bai deserve it, along with our loving SDZ. Oh gosh, here come the tears again.
Oh, Happy New Year to all. New Year, New Beginnng…..Many Blessings to all of you!
As we all wait and wish we could be at the SDZ for Yunior’s Public Debut tom’w.,I just got to see Mei Xiang and Tian Tian interact at their NZ Howdy Gate as they have been kept seperate in hopes that we will have a replacement for Tai Shan in 2010…. They both were showing distinct scent marking today so let’s hope that this year is the year for babies at the NZ and Memphis as well…..Listening to them both chirp and bark at each other now as well….I agree with all the GPF’s we should have a convention of Pandaholics to celebrate Yunior and the Bai Yun / Gao Gao clan of bears at some future date at the SDZ…..Perhaps we should do it on a planned snow enrichment date as nothing is greater than to experience the Pandas frolic in their snow in person as having recently moved I’m trying to find my pictures I took and stored on a CD that I hope to find of this event so I can post them….
“Panda Peace on Earth,Goodwill to All Living things….”
I also saw the Today Show’s feature about Yun Zi this morning. I went back and watched the clip on their website. (Can’t get enough of Yun Zi!) As someone else mentioned, the clip included YZ’s bark of protestation at one of the exams. So cute! It was fun to see the happy faces of the show’s hosts after the story concluded. They cooed and marveled at how cute Yun Zi is. I missed GMA’s clip — I hope they got the date of the debut correct since the early morning news incorrectly stated that Yun’s debut is today.
The local news this morning featured the 10 pandas at the Shanghai Zoo, so I had a lot of panda news and video to enjoy today!
Tomorrow’s the big day!!!!!! I can’t be at the debut because I have school. (The joys of being homeschooled. I’ll hopefully get the day off on my b-day!) Do pandas know how to groan? It looks like it sometimes!
Moderator, Happy New Year!
Question – will you just close the door to the classroom at 12:00 or do you convince Bai Yun and Yunior to go back to the Garden room/Bedroom/Den area?
Moderator’s note: The gates to the viewing area will close to the public at noon. Mother and cub can stay out longer if they like, but they will have access to their back areas.
I just saw a video piece on CNN.com about Yun Zi’s and Bai Yun’s big media day today before the general public meets him tomorrow. There was great video footage of our little ham in action, but also a wonderful interview with Kathy Hawk providing some interesting background information. Both Yun Zi and his mom looked like they were ready for their close-ups. I guess tomorrow he really will belong to the world…
Dear Moderator:
How many weeks old is Yun Zi? What if he doesn’t decide to come out tomorrow?
Moderator’s note: See comment #9.
Just posted another Yun Zi video, only this one if from this morning!
As Rita #78 pointed out, Yun Zi passed another climbing milestone this morning on PandaCam. Within a 45 minute span this morning, most of it BEFORE 9AM, Yun Zi showed off his climbing skills by climbing the tree stump, the climbing structure (when the camera panned back he was up where Bai normally sleeps!) and finally he climbed to his hammock where he fell asleep.
As the video shows, Yun Zi still needs to figure out a few things about climbing 
but we all know he’s a fast learner!!
The link for “Yun Zi: Climber Extraordinaire!” is:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K-Vkym-Ic6k
Good Morning San Diego
Soooooooooo… Yun Zi how was your public debut. What did you think of all the hoomans!! Can’t wait for videos or pics
#46 maureen – yes I believe numbers are down but they have been very strict with online bookings and i hour sessions and they are constantly reviewing – we have also had a lot of hot weather and they have only been behind glass in their quarantine area – but i am sure it will increase
#55 Susan – you are very welcome
#73 Dennis – Adelaide Zoo has 30 cameras – at the moment it is a technical overload issue and they are negotiating with their current sponsor ISP – so stay tuned. This is all very new for Adelaide
#77 Doxiemom – you are my hero
#91 heather – Thank you for your heartfelt words – it is EXACTLY how I feel. He will always be my Chubby Cubby as well
Panda hugs and love to everyone from Adelaide
Only 5 more days till I get to see him live (I hope). Excitement is building.
What a beautiful pair the two sleeping pandas make on the platform. Sounds like Panda Kindergarten (Human and Panda versions) has worked like a charm and little guy and his mom are more than ready for their big day. If Yun Zi is anything like his three siblings, he will play up to the crowd and be a brave guy.
Thanks, Teri #85 for the heads up on the CNN video. Yun Zi does the perfect cat fall off of the branch he is attempting to scale.
Darn – just realised it is Thursday morning here in Adelaide not in San Diego – sorry Yun Zi
I just watched the CNN video of Yun Zi, I don’t think from what a saw that he missed anything in the exhibit. He sniffed and investigated everything. My heart sank when he fell off the tree. Thank you Kathy for all the great info.
Thank you from me also #49 PandaLuver. Not having been to see the Pandas yet, I had no idea that one could get so close to them! Yours was a wonderful view of Panda Canyon and the mural I’ve heard about. And to think you just go around that last corner and there they are!
#71 Ann in NYC – so there are a few of us interested. Kathy would be a perfect speaker for a Pandaholic Convention.
#74 barbara – perfect suggestion on raising money for new classroom cams just like the bamboo cooler. As I recall it was up in the $1000s of dollars. But in increments of large and small amounts it happened. And we all have great pride in having contributed to “our” bears new cooler.
Bai and Yunior are on the platform having a nap now. Sent myself another postcard! Beautiful pandas, tomorrow is the big day. Get lots of sleep today Little Man for tomorrow the world will be watching. I’m off to watch the clips from this morning’s news shows—again!
At 4:35pm EST, pandacam was on Bai and Yuni napping on the platform! Saw ZZ on a big tree branch eating a snack about an hour ago on the cam. Yuni was all curled up on the platform!
Chari Mercier
St. Pete, FL
I would have thought the street sweeper would wake anyone up! It looks like our little Yun Zi is not going to ‘panda’ to anyone (sorry, just couldn’t resist that one.
SAN DI, I’ve watched those two videos, they are so lovely. And Doxiemom, thanks so much for catching Yun Zi doing what he does best! I actually watched him on the day when he was trying to get down the log from the platform and I felt so sorry for him, I wanted to pick him up and pop him on the ground (I wouldn’t succumb to a cuddle, of course!).
Panda Luver, your video brought back some wonderful memories of the SDZ. My daughter and myself loved the panda wall and spent ages looking at it.
Oh my gosh!! Thank you for the new pics in the Photo Gallery
They are quite possibly the best ones EVER of our precious Little Cloud. Thank you so much. I just want to pick him up and hug him…heeheehee.
I’m so excited, my birthday is on friday. I’ll probably have to wait til saturday but I couldn’t ask for anything better…except maybe an annual zoo pass to visit more often. I’m a pandaholic and all around animal lover.
Moderator’s note: Membership to the San Diego Zoo is the best deal in town and makes a great gift that can be used all year long! Have a happy birthday, Angela.
DoxieMom oh, my! I have say this is the first time I ever held my breath with thoughts that YunZi would be hurt. I couldn’t believe he climbed that high. Can’t believe he fell that far, didn’t get hurt and went up for more. Our curious, brave little fellow.
Will the pandacam be on anymore? It appears to be closed down today. How about in the future?
Moderator’s note: Panda Cam is working fine and will continue to be available for many years to come!
Did anyone else just watch Yunior get himself down from the platform using the log all by himself!
Yun Zi did it! He climed down his branch, off of the platform just now! I had not seen him do this before. Good luck on your big debut!!
Awwwwwwwwwwww poor YunZi. I just watched DoxieMoms latest video “Climber Extraordinaire” and again was laughing and giggling…………….BUT…………………..this little man has climbing up the trees down, but actually getting down, he seems to be still crashing and burning…………………..LOL…………..When he finally gets it, he will be zooming around so much, no camera will be able to keep up. LOL………….
WTG!!! YunZi!!!
Thx again DoxieMom…..
Yeah for our Yunni – HE DID IT!! Climbed down his branch all alone. Sorry but I got tears in my eyes cuz our sweet baby is growing up so darn fast.
I did see him climb down the log also from the platform. He has climbed down before……WTG YunZi!!!!!! Now if he can would do it outside from the tree trunk!!!! LOL…….
Yeaaaa! I saw it, too! Atta-boy, Yun zzzzzz~!
What a great day for Yun Zi watching, thanks to DoxieMom, CNN, NBC and pandacam! Little guy looks like he’s going to love his fans and amaze them with his derring-do.
Little pandas are so amazing to watch as they keep trying and trying to conquer that limb or that door sill over and over until one time they just can–today was a big step for YunYun–and now he seems to be having a fine time just perched on a log and playing in the boo in the garden room. Just can’t stop watching.
Diana #104–I’d be interested in the convention also!
To All: The San Diego Union has a story about the Happening for January 7th!!! I think Yun Zi now has a new nickname
Here’s the link:
http://signonsandiego.com/news/2010/jan/06/youve-got-charisma-kid/
Heather #91–I totally agree with you. Watching Bai Yun with Zhen Zhen totally changed my life, seeing the affection Bai has for her cubs–and now seeing her with Yun Zi just adds to the effect. Bai Yun is truly a miracle mom.
I loved seeing Su Lin on pandacam. Any news on when she will go on her “Big Adventure to China”???
I enjoyed the news coverage of Yun Zi’s pending public debut, especially the CNN video of the media preview day today. How adorable!!!??!!!!
Thanks for all the information sharing here.
Hoping for a successful public debut tomorrow. And a special note to Yunior: Get your rest. People will be ooohhh’ing and ahhhhhhhhh’ing lots at you over the next few days. I am so proud of how you are growing up to be a wonderful panda ambassador.
Love, Joy
Moderator’s note: No news yet on Su Lin.
#110 rose in Bandon, OR….What you experienced today was Pandaholicism at it’s most severe as both the Today Show and Good Morning America did their stories about Yunior’s big debut tom’w., and both mentioned to go to their web sites and click on the link to the SDZ Pandacam so SDZ’s server was more than likely overloaded with the onslaught of new Pandaholics who because of all the reporters today falling in love with Yunior all decided to view Yun Zi for the first time….We all should be thankful that the server did not crash but handled the hits albeit a little bit slower than normal….Yunior now has a Global Fan Base and the more Pandaholics we can create the better the odds of Panda Survival into the future…..We still should worry as we lose a species of plant or animal every 20 minutes to total extinction….The clock is ticking and can we really afford to lose any more plant and animal species 72 per day as we might have already lost the natural cure to many diseases and illnesses by having a species go into total extinction never to be seen again…
Best of Luck Yun Zi and Bai Yun on your big day tom’w.,you’ve conquered a lot in your short life to date including the hearts of all your GPF’s Family and Friends….I only wish that Lynn was out of the Hospital as we would have been amongst the first in line to see you….LOL….You have the genetic background of a true Panda Superstar and we all watch with baited breath as you start your tree frog phase of development like your Brother and Sisters before you….I found some of the SDZ Panda Pictures that I took on Mothers Day when Lin Lin came down to frolic in the Snow on her first Snow enrichment day and I will let everybody know when I get a chace to post them on my Facebook Page…..Yes a Pandaholic Convention would be a great idea at the SDZ for all of us that missed the naming ceremony and tom’w's big day…..
“Panda Peace on Earth,Goodwill to All Living Things…..”
Question – how can the panda staff make sure there are no screaming kids & even more loud obnoxious mothers at the exhibit tomorrow??
Moderator’s note: A panda narrator will be there to remind guests to keep their voices soft.
I just had the opportunity to watch online one of the media reports that have been referred to here earlier today. For Kathy Hawk – Kathy I just want you to know what a great job you do with the media. I bet that in 1986 when you started caring for the first pandas you had no idea that you would eventually be a media star for the SDZ and for panda conservation all over the world. It is obvious that you love what you do, and it is okay that we now know that the panda’s get back scratches!
I finally got a chance to post my Mother’s Day Snow Enrichment day photos showing Lin Lin as her usual tree frog self on her first snow day soon to be Yuniors spot as well up in the trees….Enjoy them as Snow Enrichment date is one to see to remember at the SDZ……The link to the 31 pictures is :
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=8754&id=100000463761808&l=e1e0272095
“Panda peace on Earth,Goodwill to All Living Things…..”
Dear GPFs,
If you log on to http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/01/06/yun-zi-new-panda-cub-at-s_n_413676.html, you can vote on which photo is the cutest.
Gosh the world is going to be at Master Gao Yun Zi’s official debut!
All the best to the SDZ staff especially the keepers who will be swamped with Panda Luv and questions. Isn’t it funny how after all the anxiety as to his development, his nocturnal habits etc, it looks like Mama of the Year has taught him well as Gloria Swanson said, “I’m ready for my close-up now, Mr deMille.”
I hope to save up enough to come visit and a Pandaholic Convention might be a good reason to save up for. How about on Yun Ni’s first birthday?
All the best for a blessed New Year!
Just watched Kathy Hawk’s interview on CNN – the SDZ has a major celebrity – this segment was viewed 30,252 times today:) And as we suspected Kathy admitted the PANDAS HAVE THE KEEPERS TRAINED to give them back scratches & Yun Zi is already learning how to beg a scratch
Was today the media viewing? I love that video in the photo gallery and am wondering if it was taken this morning?
When he fell, did he get white flowers or something all over him? Do you put treats in those balls with holes?
Thanks for all the answers from everyone at SDZ!!!
Moderator’s note: Yes, the video was taken this morning during the media preview. There is a box with sawdust in the exhibit; perhaps Yun Zi got some of the shavings on his fur.
Well, this cub sure has the publicity around the nation! I almost wish that they had only put his debut on the blog so those of us can see him without all the crowds, plus get him use to smaller groups at first…..then make the announcement to the public a couple of day later. Then those of us who read the blogs would get a special treat.
I am going to try to make it but after all the publicity I am afraid the lines will be long and then I will have to go visit the organutans instead. Perhaps I can come back on Friday and hope he isn’t sleeping either times.
Dear San Di (No 59),
The narrator was speaking in Cantonese, a dialect of China. I saw the first part and I understood enough to give you a summary. Hope it helps.
a) Pandas are China’s ambassadors. Hua Mei (HM) returned to China and eventually gave birth to twins. How did she learn to be such a good mother? Let us trace her story?
b) In June 1996, Shi Shi and Bai Yun (in Cantonese she is Pak Wan) left China for SDZ. In 1999, they gave birth to HM.
c) HM is not the first panda to be born in USA. In the 80s, 5 pandas were born but did not survive. HM is the first healthy born panda. Her parents were from the wild. Her birth will contribute greatly to research in the study of panda conservation.
d) On her first birthday, SDZ staff used her favourite carrots and bamboo to make HM a cake. She was really happy with it.
e) HM returned to her home in Sichuan Province.
f) There is a brief description of the Centre and the good work it has done to conserve pandas. Because of its successes, HM is getting the best care in the world.
g) She managed to settle in well, within 3 months.
h) The Centre has created special nutritious cakes/biscuits for the pandas (You get to see the process.) Most pandas get 3 main meals and many snacks. HM loves those cakes/biscuits and her bamboo.
i) Pandas may seem easy going but are fussy eaters and will only eat bamboo. Males and Females are normally separate and come together to mate once a year.
j) In 2004, 5 year old HM met a handsome male panda named Ling Ling. (Not clear if after the one coupling, there was attempts at IVF to ensure pregnancy – I am not familiar with the medical terms in Cantonese, sorry). HM was well taken care of during her pregnancy.
k) After a painful labour, at 7.45 pm she gave birth to one cub. Half an hour later she gave birth to another.
l) There were concerns that as a first time mother she would not know how to handle 2 cubs. It is known that in the wild, most panda moms will focus on one and let the other twin die.
m) How will HM cope? Let us see.
VIDEO 1 ends here.
Not the best translation, but hope it is useful.
#49 Pandaluver……..great video….but sure isn’t our normal weather….that part caught me off guard.
Sorry about the loss of your chickens……that is hard to handle….
Sleep till 9AM . . . . sounds good to me!
#44 Dennis & Lynn: Thank you for the informative website, I am new to the Panda Craze and I am sooo hooked, learning about them. I am in So. Cal and will be going to the Zoo for my Birthday next week. I am very appreciative to be able to view them in person.
Dear Moderator,
With so many of us interested in having a good camera on Bai Yun & Baby Yun Zi, I thought that I would mention something here. In the Spring, I watch a live cam from Harrisburg, PA., of baby Peregrine Falcons from egg to flight. The EPA there has always asked us to please exit out of the live-stream video if we
were not watching at the time. They went on to explain that live-stream videos are very costly to run and their financial resources are limited. My thought to save money to purchase a new Classroom camera, if
that is possible for us Pandaholics, is for all of us viewers to leave the website when we are not viewing it…..not just minimizing the website, but leaving it completely. What is your opinion, Zoo Staff, on this, please ? Thank you for your response.
Moderator’s note: I’ll check with our Web Team.
I just posted all of my Panda Pictures of Bai Yun,Gao Gao,Mei Sheng,and Su Lin as the tree frog including Su Lin’s first snow enrichment day asI finally found my cd copy….Enjoy them ….
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=8766&id=100000463761808&l=c76de87fa2
SNOW ENRICHMENT DAY:
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=8754&id=100000463761808&l=e1e0272095
Also can be viewed at SDZ Facebook under Just Fans…..
“Panda Peace on Earth,Goodwill to All Living Things…..”
I vote for a big pile of leaves tomorrow that would get the crowd going. He is so in love with the leaves it cracks me up everytime
When I went to see ZZ she was sleeping to mom was up eating I just love her. Just to see him would be fine he will be a good bear soon. Keep up the great job SDZ.
I just check on Yun Zi and Bai tonight it was kind of dark but I say they were getting a goodnights sleep for their big day veiw tomorrow morning.
I also check out Lin Ping her caretaker and some other help were setting on the floor opening boxes of toys and letters for Lin Ping from all her panda fans. I don’t understand Thai but I’m pretty sure that’s what was going on.
Im really sad that we cant watch at night after work anymore, I understand we were just lucky to see a baby Panda at all for the last couple months. I hope to make time to watch in the day time on the weekends.
Moderator’s note: Is our Panda Cam not working at night?
Video Alert, panda lovers! Don’t miss “Panda Baby Climbs and Falls” recorded during Yun Zi’s media debut and uploaded today, January 6th . Very clear images and great close-ups – you can see the whites of Yun Zi’s eyes. Here’s the link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3rEKsfmcSho
Welcome to your adoring public, Prince Yun!! Have a great debut day!
I wish a wonderful debut for our little guy. We have become so in love with him & his Mom. I loved the Today Show piece on him. He is a “Star”. I feel like we on the blog and who go on the webcam are like a little family of sorts. We have the people who write the stories, the one’s who take the videos etc etc. In such a state of the world today, it’s nice that this little panda & his Mom have brought a smile and a warm heart to so many. My heart is always filled with joy when I think of them and their love. I must get that tattoo…lol But where to put it and the perfect picture of them.
Have a splendid day tomorrow, Bai Yun & Yun Zi. Also all the staff at SDZ. Blessings to all of you & the bloggers/ fellow Pandaholics.
xo
Does anyone have the link to the CNN story? For some reason I’m not able to find it. Thanks “beary” much.
Moderator’s note: http://www.ireport.com/docs/DOC-378733
Gloria #133, we do that here in the UK too. I watch a lot of live cams, including ospreys and they ask us to do the same – leave the site when not watching. I’ve always done that anyway, what’s the point of leaving something on if you’re not there? But I am also more than happy to donate towards a new cam for the pandas.
Dont kown why, there was some moments ireally want to bite these tiny littlecute cute fuzy ears … isthat bad..evil ?i dont do that normally..lovin’ ya Yunzi!
Yun Zi made FOX News… 1/6/10… on Greta Von Sustren’s News show at 10PM ..EST.
This baby is a World Wide Television Star !!!
He’s so lovable…everyone adores him.
Maybe Little Yun is the answer to World Peace…..I wish!
Such an exciting day today at the SDZ Panda House….
I’ll be there in my dreams!
I am very excited that he will be in the public viewing areas because I am coming down from Northern CA to the Zoo at the end of Feb. I can’t even see the pandas at work because they block it on our computers so the weekend is all I get. I will be the one going through the line and the walkway and then getting in the line again and again and over and over so I can get my panda fix(only a small fix, one can never get enough!) and pictures of course. Thank you to Doxiemom for the youtube videos…they are adorable.
T-minus 2 hours until the little man’s debut! I hope he’s ready and raring to go! I so wish I could be there to see him! Soon I hope since my sister tentatively invited me along on their vacation to SD this summer that is the works.
I bought the panda charm for my Pandora bracelet and named it Yun Zi as a promise to get there to see him!
don’t be nervous today YUN ZI. everybody has their ‘first day’ at something. you’ll be o.k. just be yourself. you’re gonna do great!!
We are getting so close!!! I am in total hopes that our baby boy will wow the world like he has done to all of us here since the day he was born yelling… I am so excited I am beside my own self I do hope the cam is on our boy the entire time he is out playing! To all that get to go and see him today, you are a witness to a HUGE day in history! Our little boy has somehow gained the WORLD on his little furry body! Good thing he likes all the attention! As for the back scratches… KEEP THEM UP! And please, I know I speak for all we pandanuts… Give each of our boys and girls a extra scratch for us!
I agree with Regina on the pile of leaves! He would love it! I have had a question I have been thinking about for a while now… Each of the pandas have favorite smells do these develop over time or is it just they have them and you have to find them? And if it’s they have them and you have to find them… do you have anything leaf smelling for Yunior? Also, do the keepers HIDE stuff in addition to putting treats on top of stumps and rocks and stuff? I mean we see all the girls going out after the keepers have cleaned up and made things pretty and it’s like they know exactly where to go first… But… Do you all change it up often so they have a new thing to look for and a new hiding place for treats? The pictures of Bai Yun yesterday batting at the ball to get the treats out was so cute!!! Thank you for all you do and all your HARD work in putting up with we PANDA NUTS of the world! You now have the eyes of the entire world on you and your staff! Maybe if Junior keeps this up the entire world will pay attention and save the pandas of the world and their natural home! Just a thought! Please answer the questions about the smells and the hiding of food treats for the pandas. Thank you again!
Moderator’s note: Our keepers have tried many different scents and treats over the years to see what pandas like the best. And they do try to “change it up” so the treats are not always in the same place. Perhaps this would be an interesting topic for a future blog post!
Just posted another Yun Zi video from yesterday afternoon
Success at last 
As Carol #111, Kelly #112, Char #114, Pat #115 and jeanneb #116 posted, Yun Zi finally got off the platform by himself without falling, a first on PandaCam!! The video is ‘hot’, but you can still make out Yun Zi as he tries to decide which way to get down… going forward or going backward!!
The link for “Yun Zi SLIDES Down the Log!” is:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yoItDNHT7F8
Good luck today as Yun Zi debuts to his adoring public!!!
Moderator #138–When the cam is on in the Garden Room overnight and there is no moon, the image is very dark and pixilated. That’s why many of us have been talking about figuring out ways to purchase new cams for that area so that the images can be as clear as they were from the den.
Moderator’s note: Thank you for the explanation. I was afraid the cam wasn’t working!
I’ve been watching baby Yunni wrestle about for the last 10 min. prior to his big debut, and wouldn’t you know, it’s 9:02, and he’s finally settled in for some zzzz’s. No movement at all! HA!! Too funny!!!
Thanks, DoxieMom for showing Yun Zi figuring out how to get down from that platform. After exhausting almost all possibilities, including eating the log and moving the log out of his way, he figured out how to shinny down the log without falling off. Good job, little guy!
And now, since it’s 9:00 a.m. PT, both Bai and Yuni have seemingly settled in for a lovely nap.
Hi Moderator, I don’t see Yun Zi on Cam 28. Where is he?
Moderator’s note: It’s hard to see, but I think he’s napping below his mother in the little hammock.
OK,Finally ,Lights,Cameras,Action,9:00AM SDZ Time and the dynamic duo decided to take a nap in the climbing structure….LOL…It was almost like Yunior knew his big debut was with us as he feigns disinterest in the descending hordes of Pandarazzi and GPF’s hoping to catch a glance of the Panda Prince of Peace as he was sitting up 10 minutes earlier….LOL… Much like his Brother and Sisters before him he will eventually move to the left main exhibit area now used by ZZ Top and soon to be a tree frog shadow bearly seen in the tree tops…..At least he like mom Bai Yun like to nap in the direct sunlight as Yunior has a nice contrast with the red flowers behind him…# 133 That’s why I posted the answer about Corporate Sponsorship from the SDZ’s Public Relations Department so that hopefully one or more of the major Film Production Companies in California might decide that the free publicity and good will they would get by sponsoring or upgrading the facilities I hope with sound like Fuji Film did when the National Zoo Upgraded their Panda Facilities so that all 3 Pandas could be out on display at the same time in seperate viewing areas…..This way those of us that miss seeing Superstud Gao Gao along with Supermom Bai Yun and Yunior,along with Zhen Zhen at the same time….At least we can hope someone in the Film and Production end of the business is a Pandaholic that will come forth with the funding to upgrade the facilities or with others make this a reality for the GPF’s Family and Friends ….
Panda Peace on Earth,Goodwill to All Living Things…..”
At last the day has finally arrived when our Supermom Bai Yun can show her prize guy Yun Zi to his admiring fans – currently he is ‘playing’ on his hammock however later he may decide to demonstrate his climbing technique.
Many pandaholics are aware there is a requirement for a new camera in the ‘classroom’ area -
- moderator – please do you know the amount required to purchase such a camera? could it be added to the Wish List in ‘small bites’ ?
The Polar Bears were hoping for a new camera to monitor Chinook when she gave birth, however sadly it appears that Chinook may have had a false pregnancy?
Here’s hoping Yun Zi will put on a first class display for all SDZ staff and visitors….
Moderator’s note: We have someone looking into it and will let us know what’s involved.
Doxie Mom…soooooo cute! I swear I’ve never seen a cuter bottom! Yn Zi and Bai, enjoy your big day!
I’m assuming that Bai is sleeping on top of the structure and the little ‘splot’ underneath is Yun Zi? He’s a young pro already!
Wake up sleepy head….your public is waiting! I’m sure there are lots of folks there this morning waiting for the first sighting! I think the idea of a Panda convention is great….But, we don’t want to wait until summer….need to see him when he is small. How about March sometime?
#140 – Dawn
What a great idea – a panda tattoo! Something that never crossed my mind.
Thanks DoxieMom for the video… Yun Zi is just too funny… he really does try to figure out all his options. I liked the way he scooted down the log…
I was impressed by Yun Zi’s upper body strength on the video posted from the media day when he was hanging upside down on the branch. His balance and strength are coming along.
Dennis: Thanks for the pictures. I was trying to figure out which ones where of Gao Gao.. the only way I know how is to look at his ear.
I’ve been watching the panda cam of Ling Ping. She is a cutie.. Really onery…
I’ve said this before and I have to say it again.. Whenever I see Bai on the “official” videos that are posted, I’m always reminded by how beautiful and regal she is. I did like the way she bounced the ball off her head to get the carrots out of the holes. Beautiful and smart!
I hope we get a blog from one of the keepers to let us know how the debut went from the human perspective. Bai and Yun Zi didn’t seem to be bothered by anything.
The pandas are never forced to do things but I am very happy that Yun Zi did wake up and put on a show for his loyal fans this morning. Am looking forward to seeing the pictures that I know will be posted here of his ‘debut’.
I am so enjoying mama and baby playing right now. 1:44 EST
1:50 Eastern time. Mom and Yunior playing and wrestling. It just does not get cuter than that. Bai Yun could teach some human mommies how to be effective parents. Bai just adores him and Yun Zi adores right back. So wonderful to see these animals interact so lovingly.
Ah–now lucky visitors get to see a full-out four-paws play session between Bai and Yun Zi! Lucky lucky visitors!
So not fair!! I had all of 20 minutes this morning before having to rush to work. He was sleeping, mom was awake. Now I switch on the cam and they’re playing!! Poop!! I’ll have to go again! Poor me! LOL Maybe Monday! (Hi Debbie!)
Moderator’s note: Good to see you there this morning, Susan! You are a true fan
Lucilla, thank you so much for the awesome translation!
I went to the zoo a little earlier than I had originally planned and got there shortly after 9am. I was shocked when I arrived and the parking lot was pretty empty. I hurried down the fern canyon and was amazed that there was so few people in line to see Yun Zi.
I was disappointed that both Bai Yun and Yun Zi were napping, but I did get to see the baby!!! He looked so tiny in person. Since I live very close to the zoo I can go many times and see our boy.
I took a couple of videos and pictures from my phone. I just realized that I see Bobbe in the video. Sorry I did not recognize you from the back of your head.
This video is at the classroom exhibit and the narrator who did a great job.
http://share.ovi.com/media/diana3diana.public/Diana3diana.10136
From that link you should be able to see the rest of my pictures.
As mentioned above the cam in the even during the day in the Garden room is aweful, is it a reflection thing or does it need to be cleaned, maybe we can change the angle if it’s a reflection.
Moderator’s note: We have been told that the garden room camera is very old.
I am so happy for Yun Zi’s debut. He is a beautiful boy. How wonderful Yun Zi is. He is a world wide star.
Boy it’s been fun watching mom and Yunior having such a great play session right now! I hope whoever was able to make it to his debut got some good looks at him!
Well, at 11:03 SDZ time, mama and cub are having a great play session, so those panda fans who came later in the morning are watching some action instead of the “cub-in-a-hammock” display. All you fans who were able to make it to Yunnie’s public debut, please post and tell those of us who could not make it how it all went. We’re waiting with bated breath. I’m also expecting an official SDZ post (based on the other cubs’ previous debuts). Maybe, maybe not.
Now watching both on the ground as Yunior climbs Mt.Bai Yun, and gets juggled like a large furry ball…..Maybe a bette viewing time would be 10:00 to 1:00 0r 11:00 to 2:00 until Yunior gets used to his admiring GPF’s….LOL…..As the denning phase comes to an end is there any possibility that perhaps the Den Camera can be swapped out with the Platform Camera? That way all of us nightowl GPF’s would still be able to watch Yunior sleep and play during his nocturnal hours….Wow , I wish we could be there to see them in person today as Bai Yun and Yunior are putting on a great show now as Yunior attacks Bai Yun’s side and rear feet….LOL….
To my GPF Family and Friends the Love of my Life, Lynn is making minor steps to improvement every day now as another team of Doctor’s has come on board to help get rid of the DVT Blood Clot (Deep Vein Thrombosis) hopefully for good so we can be together again or at least have her closer to home…As I go thru my pictures while off from my job I will post more pictures on the SDZ Facebook and on my page as well….I’m trying to find my Zoo Atlanta pre cub and NZ pre cub pictures as well as other interesting pictures including our pictures taken holding Lion and Tiger Cubs many years ago at Hollywild Animal Park in SC ,an experience that I’ll never forget being a cat fan as well as a Bearcat (Panda) Fan….
“Panda Peace on Earth,Goodwill to All Living Things…..”
OH he is so showing out!!!! There is no question at all… WE HAVE A HAM ON OUR HANDS!!!! And he knows he is that cute!!!
Was just watching the debut of our little one and at nine he just decided that he was going to sleep through this very important part of his life but at ten the little guy woke up and he just had a fun session with Bai Yun – it is so funny to watch them together. You sort of wonder how they do not get hurt with all the tossing around. If Yun Zi can fall out of trees, I guess he is a hardy little fellow. Yun Zi’s clientele today got a great show if they stayed on past his nap.
Happy new year to all of you!
Shirley from Canada
Is sawdust one of Bai’s favorite enrichments?
Well, visitors couldn’t have wished for a better show than Bai and Yunnie are giving them!
I’ve watched many play sessions in the past few weeks, but don’t remember any that went on so long.
Wish I could be there to see them in person!
The folks who came to see Bai and Yun Zi around 11am got quite a show! I loved the point at which Yun Zi actually made it up onto his mother’s back, after attempting the climb up her leg several times — and then she stood up, so for a moment, it was a Panda Tower! A tumble followed, of course.
I know that all of this play is important developmentally for Yun Zi and another way in which Bai is a good mom — but it was funny to think about it like this: Yun Zi is the best enrichment toy Bai could have!
Well no sleeping at 11-ish! Bai Yun and Yun Zi are having a great wrestle in the classroom. She ‘tackles’ him and then “soccer balls’ him on all fours. He wriggles lose and starts climbing her (I love how she tucks her head down and presents him with the ‘white cloud’ of her backside … he’s gotten entirely up on top of her, nipping and pulling his way).
I cannot tell from the camera angle, but there is something in the classroom he wants to climb and she has dragged him away from it several times (grabbing him by the forehead!). Momma knows best about how ready he is.
Is the classroom the “special outdoor exhibit” mentioned on the website? If so, today’s lucky visitors are getting a great view. But so are the legion of cam-fans. Thanks, as always, to the great people there who enable us to a little glimpse into this wonderful world.
Moderator’s note: Yes, the classroom is the “special outdoor exhibit.”
Late bloomer, indeed! That little guy is right on target, look what a big boy he is, out there strutting his stuff to his public like the little star he is! Bravo, little cloud. You are a champ!
Love to little cloud, and momma cloud, on your debut day!!!
Auntie Kat
wow….Mom’s going to be exausted! She’s keeping some TIGHT reins today and seems very protective.
Holy cow! “Mellow” Yun Xi has turned out to be a very rambunctious cubby! Many, many thanks to the person controlling the cam for keeping up with him & Marvelous Mommy Bai Yun. Oh my, when they were rolling in the sawdust I laughed til I cried! Then when he made his brief escape & tried to climb the tree, he had to stop & wipe the sawdust from his eyes! Moderator, I have a question–has any other panda mom been observed using all 4 paws to handle a cub? Bai Yun does it so well! Oops, another question–has there been any study on panda strength? Bai Yun seems able to lie on her back, reach over her head & grab a cubby & lay him/her on her chest. She’s done that easily with all her cubs, & Yun Zi is certainly no lightweight! Again, she’s the only panda mom I’ve seen who does that with no apparent strain. Thanks!
Moderator’s note: I bet some of our experienced panda watchers can answer these questions!
Yunior is such trouble! I got to the zoo early this morning to see him and he was asleep but now he has been playing for an hour. I suppose I now have an excuse to go again and visit and try to catch him in action. Thank you to all of the lovely staff at the zoo for doing a wonderful job with the panda exhibit. I am glad I could be a part of Yun Zi’s first day out with the public!
I had to miss most of the debut this morning, but Yunior and mama Bai appear to be having a blast now! I hope that Little Cloud’s big day went well and will be anxiously awaiting the video and full report!
Congratulations Yun Zi and Bai Yun – many warm wishes from your admirers near and far for this monumental day in panda history. One small step for Baby Cloud, one giant step for all Pandakind!
I watched the STAR of and on till about Noon your time and he seems like he having the time of his life. I saw him looking for a milk break buy Bai scooted away. I will bet that he will be taking a long nap this afternoon.What a great job the keepers did preparing him for his debut and of course Mama Bai too. Now the fun begins.
Yun Zi has had a fantastic first day. I think you can put that down as a success. I’ve really enjoyed watching him today but I think he looks a little tired now.
Was it me or was Bai Yun being real protective of her cub? She appeared to stay very close by while the exhibit was open.
And I also noticed that the reason Yun Zi is a star is that he has superstar genes. Mom definitely performed for the public today.
My other question is this: we can adopt Yun Zi, but can we be adopted by Bai Yun? From reading these blogs and the comments, I think that most agree that Bai Yun is a supermom. As several have noted, watching her interact with her cub is theraputic. So I want to know if we can get adopted by her? Because I think she is awesome.
dd#181–I know I’ve seen either a picture or video of Lin Ping’s mom balancing her on all four paws in Thailand. The fact that Bai Yun can effortlessly lift 20 lbs of cub over her head starts to show how strong she (and pandas and bears in general) are–which is why the keepers aren’t in adult bears’ enclosures. Bai is also still a champion climber, which requires a lot of strength.
I think pandas must be very unique, in that they are so flexible and yet so strong. Could the Panda Team comment on this?
I’ve never seen Bai Yun with the sawdust (or shredded paper?) before–she loves it as much as Gao Gao!
Louise #177 is right that Yun Zi is Bai’s best enrichment. For everyone who was worried that Bai might be too old to keep up with a cub–I think she has really proven them wrong.
And it’s so good to see Su Lin and Miss Zhennie today. Looks like a beautiful day in Panda Canyon.
I see the video and say: super Yun Zi your debut is a great show !!!!!!!!!!!!!!
greetings from austria
What a great show Bai and Yunior put on today! I expect it would have been quiet on a Thursday as people are working or in school so it’s a good time to ease Yun into what he will be dealing with once weekends and holidays come. I enjoyed the show immensely and actually got some work done while watching
I missed the action!!! I saw Yuni sleeping, and figured he would sleep the rest of his debut away; wrong! I went to the store before our big snow came; I should have know he would decide then to wake up. So glad the visitors got to enjoy him.
Just now was checking out Su Lin and saw her playing in the water! What’s with that? I didn’t realize pandas liked water. She was scooping white-looking specks out of the water. What a blast!
I am so happy for all of you folks who actually got to see our precious Little Cloud being a total rascal in person today. He seems to be quite comfortable with an audience and is turning into quite the little “Ham” these days…heeheehee!!
Momma Bai Yun gave us yet another touching moment as well. She had been pacing all around (I thought she might be hungry?) and then she picked Yun Zi up and dragged him off to the side and rolled him on his back with her nose. Then she started nuzzling, sniffing him all over. When she scooped him up and held him just like a human baby(still nuzzling him) I realized what she was doing. She was making sure he was OK!! That and maybe some words (panda words!) of encouragement and praise. After that, she sat him back down and nudged him with her nose, as if to say “It’s OK Little Cloud”. Oh my gosh, she is just so amazing
Thank you SDZ for allowing us to share in these miracles of life in the animal world. All of you are quite special as well for helping to bring so much Light into this world
#133 Gloria
Thank you for the suggestion.
Bai seemed to be playing to the crowd at times during play time with Junior this morning.
Soooo…… for those of you who went to the debut, or at least saw it…. Was YZ even there? Was he asleep? Did anything happen while I was doing school?
For those of you who got to see Yun Zi the Panda Prince of Peace live and in person today many of us GPF’s are suffering from a case of Panda Envy…..LOL…..He and mom put on a fantastic show today as Yunior did his Pandarazzi strut after the saw dust wrestling match with Bai Yun…..LOL….I just heard back from the Memphis Zoo I guess part of the Panda Lust factor has hit them today as no that’s not a whiteout of a Blizzard but due to significant internet interest after announcing that Yang Yang had an AI procedure back in Thanksgiving and all the interest caused by Yunior their system crashed out today and their IT Department is working to get them back on line asap… It just goes to show how widespread Pandaholicism is Spreading Worldwide due to all the coverage SDZ has been getting about Yun Zi’s big debut today…..Now all we need are some Corporate Sponsors to kindly donate the time ,equipment,and funding needed to upgrade the Panda Exhibit at the SDZ like what happened at the NZ with Fuji Films Sponsorship…It sure would be nice to be able to have all the Pandas out on exhibit at the same time as I miss seeing Gao Gao and his laid back style of being a fun loving goofy Panda at times,and it would be nice to see Zhen Zhen,and Bai Yun and Yun Zi all out front on exhibit as Yunior becomes acclimated to being on exhibit all at the same time…
“Panda Peace on earth,Goodwill to All Living Things…..”
I was watching baby Yun Zi’s public debut this morning, and he and Bai certainly entertained everyone with no disappointments……they’re naturals ! All of the visitors to the zoo this morning were well rewarded for
their admission fee.
As the camera panned around Yun Zi & Bai, I noticed that most of the time the view was quite clear and visible. But at other times, there was that bothersome haze and spots on the lens. I believe that Dennis had mentioned something about sun glare on the cameras in a previous blog.
Could you please tell me if the haze and spots we see are simply from the sun’s glare and not the camera itself ? Also, what is the zoo’s opinion on all of us donating to a fund to purchase a new camera, I have not heard yet.
Thanks you so much again for your valuable time and response.
Moderator’s note: I’m still waiting to hear back from the “powers that be.”
Wow! I just got into the Yun Zi classroom line by the skin of my teeth! I couldn’t get to the zoo until 11:25 and I raced down to Panda Canyon. I was one of the last guests allowed in the line (picture a zigzag line at Disneyland) and by 11:55 I finally saw our little Yun Zi. By then, Bai was becoming antsy for her lunch, but Yun Zi was still rolling around having quite a fun time. Oh how cute!! We are so blessed to have these magnificent animals at the San Diego Zoo for all to observe and love. I can’t wait to return for my 2nd visit.
I saw him sleeping……but then there was no line. I hate to think of waiting in long lines only to find him sleeping again…..I want him to play while I am there!
I tried to view #168′s site but it wouldn’t play for me….I think it was San Di
I also don’t think Bai Yun really cared if anyone was there or not…..she is in her own little world. At this point she knows no one is going to harm her kids …..or her.
I just sure wouldn’t want her to fall on top of him while they are both sleeping…..she is really big….and she was right over him in the tree.
Loved the video that is up now…..her hitting the toy for treats….
And then when he was hanging under the log, he reminded me of a sloth hanging upside down..
Moderator, no the panda cam is almost BLACK now not having the infared effect anymore. Thanks to Doxie mom and others we can see videos. or I will wait til the weekend for daylight BUT I WILL BE THERE IN PERSON SOON
Diana S #2. I had fully intended to come to San Diego this month, but fate has handed me some unexpected expenses, which means my trip will have to be delayed indefinitely. I am heartbroken about not being able to see little ‘Bruiser’, among other heartbreaks recently, but I don’t know when I would be able to make that trip. I hope all of you will have a great get-together, and remember me while you are basking in the glow of Yunnie. I haven’t been on line lately, but I have been watching the cams as often as I can.
Moderator’s note: Hang in there, Dianne!
#187 Frances
Pandas are not unique in the bear world with respect to these features. In fact, they are neither the most strong nor the most agile. The polar and brown bears are extremely strong, and polars have tremendous endurance. Sun bears are more arboreal, and this requires agility and flexibility. Researchers have now observed Andean bears scaling steep cliff faces, even when they are as young as Yun Zi is currently.
#167 SAN Di – Sorry I didn’t get to write yesterday to thank you for the first video look at the debut. It was so thoughtful of you to post your video so quickly especially for those of us who needed not only to see Bai Yun, Yun Zi, but the beautiful San Diego sunshine! Many thanks.
Oh, Dianne #200, I am so sorry that you won’t be able to attend! This was your idea. Whatever small consolation it is, yes, we will be thinking of you for sure. Please hang in there through whatever trials you are going through. Keep an eye on Yun Zi as much as you can as he will be sure to bring a smile!!
Thanks Diana S and Moderator, for the well-wishes. I am not physically distressed, only mentally. While the problem is not severe, but it leaves me…well….”strapped”. (How embarassing!!) Now that I’m able to be back at home, the mental stress is somewhat relieved, and yes, I do watch our wonderful ‘Ambassadors of Peace and Love’, every chance I get. Thanks again. Diana S., if anything changes for the better, I’ll be sure and let you guys know. Is March 20 & 21 pretty much set as “the date”?
PLEASE DON’T LET ME OFFEND YOU BY USING ALL CAPS-I HAVE ARTHRITTIS IN ALL OF MY FINGERS AND REACHING FOR THE SHIFT KEY IS JUST TOO PAINFUL.
#36 JESLYN…YES HE TAKES SOME TIME TO FIGURE OUT WHICH WAY TO GET DOWN FROM THE SLEEPING PLATFORM….I SAW HIM GO BOTH WAYS TODAY. FIRST HALF HE SLID FACE DOWN ON HIS BELLY, THEN TURNED AROUND SO HE WAS BOTTOM FIRST THE REST OF THE WAY….BUT THAT IS WHERE THE CAMERA WAS SET IN THE EARLY EVENING SO WE COULD NOT SEE THE REST…BUT BOTTOM FIRST CANNOT BE TOO BAD.
AROUND HERE HIS NICKNAME IS “PRINCE ROYAL FLUFFY BUTT”, AND MOMMY IS “HER MAJESTY QUEEN BAI”. I LIKE TO THINK OF THE GROUP AS THE PANDA ROYAL FAMILY.
I WAS LUCKY THE NIGHT OF THE REALLY FULL MOON-CAM WAS SET TO THE GARDEN ROOM OVERNIGHT, AND I GOT TO SEE PRFB AND HMQB PLAY TOGETHER IN THE MOONLIGHT SIMPLY BECAUSE I HAD TO CHECK ONCE MORE TO SEE IF THEY CAME BACK. THAT WAS THE DAY HE GOT OFF THE HIGH PLATFORM HEAD FIRST-FALL DOWN GO BOOM.
EVEN THOUGH I LIVE IN THE GREATER SAN DIEGO AREA I WOULD FIND IT HARD TO CRUISE THE ZOO, AND UNTIL THE DAY PRFB WAS BORN HAD NO IDEA THAT I COULD SPEND WAY TOO MANY HOURS WATCHING THE BEARS ON THE CAM. I HAVE SAVED HUNDREDS OF PHOTOS FROM THE CAMS…..NOW I JUST HAVE TO FIND THEM….MY SON HAD TO CLEAN UP MY MESSED UP COMPUTER, AND PUT IN THE NEW WINDOWS 7, AND SO FAR I CANNOT FIND ALL OF MY FILES-BUT I WILL KEEP LOOKING.
I THANK EVERYONE WHO SHARES LINKS TO THE VIDEOS ETC…..KEEPS ME REAL BUSY SEEING EVERYTHING LOVE 3-M GRAMMMIE
Moderator’s note: Please know that both the Zoo and the Wild Animal Park have free shuttle service for those in need. You can catch the shuttle just inside the Zoo’s entrance and it will drop you off in Panda Canyon! Here’s more info…
Did something to some of the blogs from today Sunday I posted one early today an it not here. I had say I read where they were having farewell party January 30th for Tai Shan at the NZ. And was wondering if the SDZ had anything planned for Su Lin before she goes back to China. Also they had a half year birthday party for Tai Shan giving him his favorite treat honey as he will not be here for his 5th birthday.
#204 Dianne hope you are doing better soon and can make the big party.
Moderator’s note: See your comment #205. Comments are not moderated as frequently over the weekend.
I just went through the photo gallery showing Prince Royal Fluffy Butt from first exam to this week…I never realized before how big his nose was in proportion to the rest of his face, when very young. Usually babies have big eyes to attract us, but I guess for pandas the proportions of the nose is the key. I am so glad he finally grew into his nose-or he could never climb those logs. He would be very unbalanced.
I hope everybody has a wonderful week……I will keep the fires burning on the panda cams in case anything is missed. Come to think of it-if there are any naps missing from the zoo check the panda exhibits for them…love 3 m grammmie
34 Jeslyn in San Diego,
I couldn’t watch that video either and it was one of the first ones I found on pandas. It broke my heart and made me cry so I shut it off.
Dear Moderator,
Maybe I’m missing something here because Bai knows what she is doing but I find it is really upsetting me. Why doesn’t Bai take Yun Zi off the platform when he wants to come down. He obviously can’t quite manage it on his own. I think he may be a little afraid because that was quite a fall he took when he tried. I know they bounce back, but Yun Zi is no coward, he has already shown himself to be quite brave and inquisitive. Why won’t Bai help him and teach him what to do? I don’t think it would take long for him to learn if she would just show him. You know much more than me, am I missing something here, is there a reason Bai won’t show him how?
Thanks-Phyllis
Moderator’s note: This is part of growing up panda, and all of our cubs go through this style of learning. For peace of mind, perhaps you can read archived posts about Zhen Zhen and Su Lin when they were at this age–they survived and continue to thrive
Dear Moderator,
I’m probably going to sound dumb, but I have to ask. Since it is so difficult for our YunZi to get back down that log, can one of the groundskeepers do something to make it safer and easier for the cub to get back down without falling? If it is a matter of money, I could only send a little bit right now because I am permanently disabled, and my husband’s work can only give him part time hours right now. But naturally I will do it for my adopted little boy. I’m sure his other adopted parents will also if that’s what is needed. Sorry if I sound stupid but I feel so bad for little Yun Zi.
Thanks and hugs-Phyllis
Moderator’s note: Please don’t worry about little Yun Zi. He’s doing fine.
Dear Moderator,
Thanks for the answers. I believe you know much better than I do and I will try to turn down my “worry” button.
As usual, thanks for your patience and understanding. I really do trust you so your answers help.
Hugs to you from one silly pandaholic.