As your blog moderator, I felt it was my duty to visit the panda exhibit this morning to see how Yun Zi handled his public debut…. Oh, who am I kidding? I went to see the little guy this morning because I wanted to!! I was not disappointed.
When I first arrived, I used my status (or rather, my name badge) to peek in on Yun Zi from the exhibit’s exit so I wouldn’t have to stand in the somewhat long line. He was sound asleep on the small hammock, and Bai Yun was doing the same in some branches just above. Oh well, I thought, that’s to be expected. After all, I’ve been the one warning folks that panda cubs do a lot of sleeping! I did some Zoo errands and came back at 10:30 a.m., again peeking in through the exit. Staff told me the cub had just woken up and was playing. OMG—this is perfect! I quickly got into the ever-growing queue of Zoo visitors so I could get a full view of the little guy.
Our visitor assistance officers and panda narrator Kay did a great job of keeping the line moving so all could have a turn to view the oh-so-cute cubbie. We slowly made our way into the exhibit’s viewing area, and there he was, big as life, playing! Yes, playing with his mother! It’s one thing to view a panda cub on Panda Cam, but when I saw him “in person,” my eyes got a little teary. I noticed he had the same effect on Jessica, one of the panda fans I met while in line. What a thrill to watch him wrestle with Mom and strut his stuff! Did he seem bothered by all the people? No. Did he even seem to notice us? No. Did we care that he didn’t notice us? No. Did he look absolutely adorable? YES!
When our turn was over, I looked around to see the reactions of those who had been in line with me, and this was the neatest thing—the looks of sheer joy on their faces! Panda fans Jennifer, Jessica, Liz, Barbara, and Glen described the experience as “awesome,” “overwhelming,” and “very emotional.” Jennifer said Yun Zi had melted her heart into a big mush ball. Jessica declared it a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Liz thought the whole viewing experience was “perfect.” I think long-time Zoo member Barbara summed it up best when she said, “We are so lucky to have this wonderful facility that so beautifully shows the different stages in a panda’s life. Now, I’m off to see his big sisters!”
Debbie Andreen is an associate editor for the San Diego Zoo.
Watch video of Yun Zi’s media preview day.
View more images from the preview day.
Oh LOVE to all there and working! Go scrach his back for us!!!
So glad to hear everything went well with Yun Zi dayview just wish I could have been one of the panda fans there.
I watched them in the web cam and they were playing…and ppl in the zoo was sooo lucky to see them!!!
This post from Debbie just brings big tears to my eyes! We are all so proud of you Yun Zi!! From that first big squeal I have watched the panda cam daily and so enjoy watching him grow. I plan to get there soon to have that same feeling you and others had when seeing him in “person”. Was he close enough to the viewers that you could see the spot on his tail?
Moderator’s note: Yes indeed. I saw that little spot quite clearly!!
Adorable!
He’s a big boy now !!! How adorable, I wish I could see him in person. Good job SDZ.
Exciting. Wish I could have been there. Even though Su Lin was my first baby panda, I never got to see her in person. I did get to see Bai, and Zhen when she had started going out on exhibit with mom.
Yes to say the least it is pretty darn emotional, and I couldnt believe at the time I was finally able to see beautiful Bai and her recent cub at the time Zhen, up close and in person. It’s totally different in person then on the cam. That’s for sure ! Thanx Debbie for sharing the experience with us. I’m jealous of those who were there today ! =)
Moderator’s note: My pleasure!
What a big day for Yun Zi!! Wish I could have been among the lucky folks!!
Bamboo, honey, and back scratches for all!
Thanks for your update and visit report. You now have another hat as “Blog Reporter”– It seems to fit you well, Debbie!
I know what you mean when you see a panda in real life. Pandacam is a wonderful thing, but in real life, in 3D, it is simply exhilarating! And then to get the opportunity to see him playing and having fun… WOW, I bet you will be asking to move your station down to the Panda Research Area… I know if I worked at the zoo, I would be right there watching the action, even when others say there is no action. Sleeping pandas are even fun for me to watch!
Thanks for sharing your visit. I hope to get there someday soon. The earliest I’ve be able to see a cub at SDZ was seeing a 10-month old Su Lin. And that was a treat that I still remember. Next youngest at SDZ was Zhennie at age 13 months. It would be nice to see Yunior before he hits the time when they start spending all day in the treetops.
Would anyone like to contribute to the “Send Panda Joy to SDZ FUND” ???
Moderator’s note: Thank you, Joy! And perhaps we can add your fund to the Wish List
Oh my Yun Zi. Bravo little man!!! It’s been such a pleasure watching you grow since you were born and you are now officially a man ham………………LOL………….he really was hamming it up for media day and his public debut. …………..LOL. BaiYun has done, and continues to do such a wonderful job with him.
I wasn’t there, but I would like to know if her pacing around the facility she was doing was due to waiting for food or nervousness on her part that YunZi was on display???
TYSVM SDZ and Debbie for sharing…………..
Moderator’s note: She was probably anticipating her next bamboo delivery.
Thank you Debbie for the personal account of Yun Zi’s grand debut. Tears well up just watching the little guy on the panda cam. I can’t imagine what seeing him in person would do! I am so looking forward to that experience.
#125 Lucilla from the previous blog. Yun Zi’s birthday would be a great convention date. But as Janan Hunstberry #159 also from the prior blog said; his birthday is just too far away. And we do still want to see him as a baby cubbie. Her thought was March sometime. Oh, and thank you Lucilla for the translation re: the Hua Mei videos.
So Debbie Moderator what would the effect be of a bunch of Pandaholics descending on Panda Canyon? Is there somewhere to gather on a particular day in a particular spot? We would love to meet anybody and everybody who could take the time to say Hi. We of course would not want to put the SDZ out in any way.
Oh how cute, Yunior is trying to get Mom to play by climbing all over her, but Bai is just concentrating on her boo!
Moderator’s note: I think it’s a fine idea. Just pick a day and time and I’ll try to come, too!
To All: It was awesome today!!! Yes, at 9:15 Bai and YunZi ‘The Charisma Kid’ were sound asleep. However, at 10:20 or so…..The lines were 30 minutes long because Bai and Yun Zi were playing!!!! Definitely worth the wait and definitely worth getting right back in line for another visit
I took as much video as I could…and will put it up as soon as I can….probably Friday…I did come back home instead of staying over because I decided that buying a second battery made more sense than paying for a hotel room. 
There were visitors from all over the country standing in line…all saying how Lucky they were to be able to see Pandas 
Will write more later. What a GREAT VISIT to the SDZ (as always) 
Great blog Debbie and I’m so happy that you got to take time out from ‘us’ for a change and go and enjoy Yun Zi’s big debut! It must have been a great experience and I’m thrilled for you!
Moderator’s note: It was indeed fun to share the experience with other panda fans!
Although I couldn’t be there in person, I loved watching Yun Zi and Bai Yun playing together. He made quite an impression for his debut and it must have been very emotional for all who were there in person to see him, especially when observing him since his birth, when he looked like a little stick of butter until now, when he is such a beautiful creature. Thank you SDZ for sharing with us and keep up the good work. Hugs and kisses to Bai Yun and Yun Zi–you are both loved a lot.
Thank you SO much Debbie. So ok I’m jealous but your words did help ease the absolute longing to be there in person!! What a little ham he is.
So excited – we will be there Sunday morning!!
Oh, Debbie, thanks for making me teary. At work!
Thank you for sharing your experience of the BIG day. I stayed home to watch the 9:00 debut, and found him sleeping. Of course. Drove to work, got the cam up and running, and OMG, I couldn’t believe my eyes. Yu Zi acted like he knew he was the funniest, most precious thing in the world. Putting on a show for all.
Thanks, Debbie. Thanks to all the other pandaholics who were there.
And you go, Yun Zi. You are a star.
Thankyou Debbie for the great blog. I wish I could have been there too! I have been watching the panda cam most of the day! What an adorable little man!!
Can’t wait to get there myself to see him and his family.
I kept the pandacam on all day and checked it obsessively today….I really wish I’d taken the day off to be there this morning–Mama and Baby were in high form!
Yun Zi was having a blast wrestling with his mama (he was literally throwing his body weight against her and she just kept nuzzling at him).
Early in the day I saw he was trying to get away from her to play, but she always reached over and snatched him back into her arms–it was really a joy to watch.
I’m sure it’s not the same as being at the zoo, but you know, for a die-hard panda lover (me, me, me)—-I was just as mesmorized to watch them play via the internet (I get what I can!).
We plan on going this weekend–I know it will be a nightmare–but I don’t care. I just can’t wait to see Yun Zi!
Thank you Debbie for a great account of Yun Zi on his first day with is loving fans…I hope to get out there to see him soon….
The media footage is hystarical. It’s great to see Yun Zi running around, although he is of course sleeping right now
Please don’t stop uploading videos! We love them. You should have a raffle for a trip to SDZ!
Today is a very special day for all of us, Yun Zi fans!
I got a little teary as well, watching the video. Like so many others, I feel a strong and somewhat inexplicable attachment to little Yun Zi and I so wish I could be there to see him in person. However, I am incredibly grateful for the Panda Cams, the videos and the updates/commentary from the zoo staff because I’ve been able to keep up with little one’s progress in a way that would otherwise be impossible. So a big thanks to you, Debbie, and your colleagues for allowing me to witness the delight that is a panda cub.
I wish I could have been there in person to see that sweet roly poly. You have done a wonderful job keeping all of us informed of his growth and development. Love his interaction with his wondefil mom. Thanks again!!
OMG….this is the cutest, yet HILARIOUS, video. The end of the video is a must see moment. You know it’s coming and boom! If these videos don’t warm your heart and make you smile, nothing will. I believe Yun Zi and his family could help with International Relations.. PEACE!
I have been tuning in daily since Yun Zi was born and just like all his other fans, I find him so adorable. I will be coming to San Diego in August and I hope to be able to see him in person (bearson). Bai Yun is such a good mother, I love to watch her interact with Yun Zi. He is just such a typical little boy, into everything, when he’s not sleeping, another typical little boy thing.
Thanks to all the SDZ staff for sharing with us since the beginning. This has been a wonderful experience.
Thank You again Debbie,as it was fun viewing the Pandacam this morning when as the clock struck 9:00AM he went to sleep….LOL….You have all of us that watched via the Panda Cam and could not be there in person having a big case of Panda Envy as living in NJ with my wife having severe medical problems and starting her second year in a Hospital,we relish the thought of being able to visit the SDZ once again when Lynn is able to travel to see her Doctor’s in the Newport Beach area….The first question she asks me every day on the telephone now is how are the baby and Bai Yun doing?
Again as I mentioned in earlier blogs we hope that some Corporate Sponsorship might come from the Entertainment Industry based in California that I’m sure must have GPF’s watching the aging infrastructure of Panda Cams to hopefully contribute needed equipment,time ,and funding to allow the needed upgrades to SDZ like Fuji Film did for the National Zoo so that we can have Panda Cameras with sound and hopefully allow an upgrade so all thatall of the Pandas can be seen on exhibit at the same time,once Princess Lin Lin departs to become we hope the next productive Panda like her older half sister….Or at least possibly allow the aging platform camera in the garden area be swapped with the den cam so that night time viewing can be experienced…With each cub the viewing has become better but we all know that the Panda Cams are nearing the end of their life cycles and need replacement before they stop working,and with the economic conditions perhaps can use the Tax Writeoff of helping the SDZ get needed upgrades to meet the increasing demands of the Global Pandaholic Fan’s due to Yun Zi’s increasing fan base….
“Panda Peace on Earth,Goodwill to All Living Things….”
Yay Roly Poly!
You make us all so happy!!!
My Mom said she saw him take a big fall today! Is he OK?
Moderator’s note: He’s fine! Panda cubs are built for falling.
#22: What a GREAT idea!! Can you imagine the money that would bring in for the pandas wish list, particularly the cameras? Moderators, staff … is a raffle like that possible?
Moderator’s note: That’s a great idea! We’ll look into it.
Special, special day. So disappointed could not be there – felt like I might as well be in China! But, we are so lucky to have the videos – huge thanks to all who are responsible. Please, please continue to video Bai Yun and Yun Zi often for those of us who may never have the opportunity of seeing them in person.
Yun Zi I am so proud of you!!!
:>)
Aw…poo. I wish I could have been there!
Yun Zi looks all tuckerd out after his outing with his Mommy. Cant wait to see them this Summer!!!!!!!
Oh how I wish I could of been there to see this little guy, but did sit at my computer this morning for a good hour and watched him and mom wrestle with one another. He is such a joy to watch. If my day isn’t going so well, he always makes me feel better. Thank-You for the video SDZ. Always a joy to watch! As always big bear hugs and kisses to mama and baby!
Debbie. Your delight was our delight thanks to your discription. #13 Bobby. So happy to hear you were there and shared your first hand information with us. Our little guys deput. I simply can’t believe it is here. WOW! Knowing how I feel, can you imagine what the SDZ guys felt today. With all their gental care, knowing to follow Mother Nature’s design and sticking to that direction, that was the best decision. Allowing the time for Yun Zi and Bai to be comfortable in that situation. They obviously were because of the decisions of SDZ. Seemed like a perfect debut. Congrats. to SDZ. Now I have to stop feeling so sad because we won’t be seeing him as much. But hes healthy and happy with his MoM and is entering a new stage in his life. I guess a new stage in our lives as well.
I was there about … 9:30ish … saw Bai walk over and sit with her back to a “log” and begin to munch and crunch on her bamboo … Yun Zi was sleeping in a hammock so only saw one little ear and the back of his head and his back …. still cute … would have stood in line and walked through several more times but had to take my mom shopping. Maybe I will try again … tomorrow or this weekend??? Thank you for the wonderful update and comments today.
I wish I could have been there today. But I am so happy that I can follow the panda’s on the cam. I’ve learned so much by watching them and I realize how fortunate we are to have pandas in our world!
I wanted to clarify my previous comment. I said that I realize how fortunate we are to have pands in our world. I meant to say this world as pandas and all animals belong in this world.
forgot to make an observation … wanted to buy a stuffed panda for my new grandson … even though he is only two weeks old …but none of the stuffed pandas seem to have a black spot on the tail … so had to settle for a … regular panda without a spot. Have they made any stuffed pandas with the black spot on the tail???
Moderator’s note: We’ll have to suggest that
It is great to put a name to our esteemed moderator…Yun Zi’s debut looked awesome…”thank you” to the wonderful SDZ staff…cheers to all the GPF.
Yun Zi had a great debut today. He had fun playing with his mommy Bai Yun. I kept watching off and on today.
Well, I ran before work, and saw him SLEEPING. I took a couple of pictures, but wish I could have gone around to the end of the line again. I’ll try again next week when I will have more time.
aww so cute!!!! he melts my heart, wish i could have seen him
I LOVE HIM I LOVE HIM I LOVE HIM
Ahh i wish i could have been there,,,,,but from houston is a long way…….Yun Zi you are the most adorable…..I love Pandas, wish i could have one as my son………
I watched the video…my has he grown! I’ll be there in a week from tomorrow. Can’t wait!
oh sweety pie!! you did so well during your big debut!! you were born to be on stage! in the spot light! but of course!! you are a LEO! you simply must be paid attention to! thank you for that joy today. grrrrrrr!!
Oh–I wish I could’ve been there!! But I checked in often, via the panda cam, to see the world’s cutest panda boy and his awesome mom! They are both totally amazing!!!!!
Nice to hear your account of today Debbie!! You answer so many of our questions and post our comments and I was thrilled when I saw that you were posting your experience of seeing our little boy up close and personal.
I can’t believe how big he is getting. I’ve been in Costa Rica for the past 3 weeks and my internet is limited but got a chance to watch today so am back in my “panda zone”.. Heading back to Canada Saturday morning so will catch up on everyone’s comments.
I do have lots of picture postcards in my inbox though, thanks Lee!!!!
Dear Panda Friends and SDZ… Thanks for sharing this little guy’s birth and life along with Bai Yun’s maternal devotion. Yun Zi is a TV Star now! Hope we can keep him here in the States forever! I’ve been watching the Panda Cam since August and it has been my bright light of each day.
I was there….waiting with the rest of the folks for the gates to open. Made it down the hill to get to the Panda Station. There he was …….sleeping. The narrator was giving details about them on a microphone plus the street sweeper was outside and the birds were very loud…..but the two of them slept thru it all. Yun Zi on his hammock and right over his head, was 225 pound Momma……she used to weigh 250. Plus they said our boy is a biter…..and that at 13 months the mother kicks the cubs out.
Plus I think she said he has fallen in the moat and then they have to get Bai Yun out of the exhibit, then get the cub out of the moat.
The classroom is much smaller in person and you can see the cameras all around.
I would think they just need new plastic covers to improve the viewing rather than buy new cameras. Plastic goes bad so fast so perhaps the team can look into just replacing the covers! Should be cheaper than a camera!
I will try to go back next week but our weather might change.
When I left, the escalator hadn’t been working for a few months…..so that was a long haul up those stairs but when the lady in front of me was using a cane, I figured I can climb those stairs too!
Got a chance to see the orangatans but only one was out leaning against the glass.
Then outside the bus tours were pulling up. Lots of foreign visitors who didn’t know the panda was on exhibit. So get there early! I only waited about 40 seconds before I got in the panda gate to see them. Short cut is to go pass orangatuans and then thru the aviary and take the stairs down……start on Easy Street.
Met some delightful website viewers……
And I had plenty of time to get to my 10 AM appt.!
True confessions from the Panda Blog moderator. Yun Zi melts everyone he comes in contact with.
I look forward to seeing him on Monday and to meeting you. Best wishes to all the local SDZ members who get to meet him on Saturday.
We are off on our excursion from cold Virginia to warm and sunny SD tomorrow. I am excited about seeing the Izu pride on Saturday at WAP and Yun Zi and family at the zoo on Monday. Can’t wait. It has been too long a gap between SDZ and WAP tris. Everyone I know who has been to SD has been to the zoo since we were there in 1987.
Unfortunately I have to leave my 14 year old Yorkie in the Vet Hospital while I am gone, which is putting a damper on my trip. But, he is in good hands and is responding well to their IV treatment of a nasty gastro infection. I went to see him tonight and told him I would say Hi to his panda friends for him. He sits in my lap when I watch Panda cams.
I saw the Yun and Bai show today, it was toooo adorable, I wish I could have been there to see them in person. They did not seem to be fazed at all by the people adoring them. Thanks to the cam operators for getting us such good pics of them. He really is staying awake for long periods of time now. He must wear mom out although she seems to thoroughly enjoy playing with him. It is a great workout for her to keep her girly figure. What a wonderful mother she is, I love when she just goes over and hugs him for no apparent reason, she truly adores her little cloud.
A big thank you to all at SDZ who through their dedication bring us this joy. It brightens my day. My co-workers hear me say all day long how bad I want a little cubbie of my own! Moderator, I really think you should get to go and give him a big squeeze as thanks from all us pandaholics!
Thank you so much for the wonderful description of Yunior’s debut. I, too, got teary eyed reading it. I so wish I could see him in person, but living on the East Coast pretty much rules that out. (I am really really hoping to get to see Tai Shan before he leaves.)
Right now our much-loved kitty is very sick, and things are not looking good. In the midst of my heartbreak, reading these updates brings me some comfort and always a smile. So…thanks again. Your efforts are much appreciated.
Moderator’s note: I’m sending healing thoughts for your kitty…
I too enjoyed the coming out for Yun Zi. Wish I could of been there but he was his charming self. I also wondered about Mom’s pacing. Never saw her do that before, did she do that with the other cubs on their first day on exhibit? He & mom are sleeping now – is he completely out of the den now?
Moderator’s note: As of yesterday, he still had access to the den but wasn’t using it very much.
What a day! Absolutely incredible performance by Bai and Little Yun Zi. Lucky Zoo guests. I do hope there is a video of a good part of that. To the staff…..you too, are absolutely incredible. If you only knew how grateful we Panda Cam Fans are. Thanks so much for all you do for us and the precious Panda Bears.
I finally had a minute to watch the video………absolutely precious. Just like our baby!
I’ve been telling you that Sacramento is in love with pandas………the link Dennis so kindly provided to the pics of Pan Pan were on our local TV website; Yun Zi had a big picture in the 3rd page of our local newspaper this morning; and Yun Zi and Mommy were on the local news tonight.
Our little boy is a star! Obviously not just here in Sacramento. Internationally. He has become the new face for sustaining his species. How cool!
I am coming to see you YUNIOR, get ready this weekend will be busy! Love you Mommy Bai and Daddy Gao, and sisters. But Yunior is my first baby cub that I have watched every day!!
Really enjoyed the pictures, like other fans wish I could be there. Will coming in July, can hardly wait.
He is all boy, always looking for something to do and get into.
what fun.
Keep the pictures coming and the video, I have been watching since he was all pink.
Thank you sdz.
lu
:-#
:-O
:-B
:-*
Why is it so dark from cam 15? Is there a way to have more light on the evening pandacam without disturbing them?
Thanks to SDZ for this fantastic opportunity to see pandas on a daily and hourly basis!
Moderator’s note: There are no plans to make cam changes at this time.
WAIT two big YAHOOS because this will also be my first time seeing a full grown Panda, Mama BAI…cant wait for the weekend, I dont care how long it takes. If a person can wait a couple of hours in line at Disneyland, NO PROBLEM waiting in line for this miracle!
What a day for Yun Zi – was he a ham or not – if he noticed the crowd he loved them & Momma Bai felt the adoring crowds were her due – after all this her cub that she feels like sharing with us all
What a pair mom & cub are 
Keep all the notes from what you saw coming 
Congrats to little cloud on his Jan 7 2010 public debut. What a lil champ he is!
Question: is the birthing den now closed? Yun zi seems to have graduated to the platform for napping.
Moderator’s note: It is not closed yet, but he doesn’t use it much any more. He’s a big boy cub now
Absolutely adorable. He certainly showed off for his public. I saw the Panda Cam earlier today and Mother and Son were playing with each other. Such a sweet endearing sight. Thank you staff and writers for all the wonderful work you do in keeping us informed. Thanks too for the video. Brought tears to my eyes. Love It!
WTG Yun Zi!!!!!
You are such a special boy. I got to see some of your playfulness with your Momma on the webcam today! What a great day for you and all at the SDZ. I only hope that someday I could come visit but I don’t think so. But I am satisfied with seeing you any way I can. XO
I enjoyed the video of Yun Zi and momma on his first day showing off to the public. It made me laugh so hard watching him climb on the tree, just totally letting everyone see that he knows what he is doing. When he almost reaches the end, right before he falls off, he has this look on his face, as if to say, “What do I do now Mom.” I feel so very fortunate to experience the whole panda scene, and thanks so much to the SDZ for making it possible. Panda’s are my joy and I appreciate it.
Thanks for the report! Your joy is contagious. I’m crossing my fingers that DoxieMom caught some of this. Her latest video of Yun Zi figuring out how to get down the log is mesmerizing. What a blessing she is for us! I think the raffle is a great idea to raise money for the cams. Sign me up!
I’m curious about Bai Yun’s wrinkly lower back, visible in recent photos including the one at the top of this blog post. I don’t remember noticing his before. Has she lost weight? Or does her fur just naturally wrinkle up like that when she’s sitting in a particular position?
I may be coming to see our darlings in early March. Will you keep us posted on how His Chubbiness’s public schedule is going, so I’ll know when to come looking for him?
Moderator’s note: Your question has been forwarded to our Panda Team.
Debbie, the moderator—loved your article about Yuni’s public outing! You did the same thing that everybody else has done whether in person or on the cam—Yuni melted your heart like crazy! That cuteness just won you over! Hope you have a chance to go see him alot more times!
Well, got my Pandas International email newsletter today. I read one of their articles about Ya Ya at Memphis Zoo. She was artificially inseminated in November, which means she had her estrus early again! Now, that this procedure was done, they are going to be keeping a close watch on Ya Ya for a possible panda birth this March. Keep your fingers crossed, do alot of praying for Ya Ya, you all! We don’t want her to lose another baby panda this year!
Did not get to watch pandacams at all today. Hubby had an appointment today, and I went with him. That was a long one for us! So, I’ll try to get on the cam tomorrow to see what Yuni is up to.
Chari Mercier
St. Pete, FL
So…I am a meeting planner…should I plan a Panda Convention? How many of you would be willing to come to the zoo and meet? We could all have a Panda dinner at a local San Diego restaurant, and hopefully meet with some of the
personnel from the SDZ. Also, I would hope that we could get special times to see the pandas and maybe even be included in a lecture or update on the endangered species. I would like this to be in March when Yun Zi is still small. I plan to go anyway, so would be happy to arrange this for Panda fans.
It was nice to meet you in line! Seeing the baby panda was something I’ll never forget! I’m already planning to come back next week to see him again!
Moderator’s note: Likewise, Jennifer! Thanks for letting me share your comments with our global panda fans
#71 – Janan – you are exactly the person we need to get the pandaholics’ convention off the ground. Thank you for your offer! You have great ideas. I’d like to suggest that the group go for lunch at the zoo – maybe at Albert’s Restaurant located in the treetops – nice and cool – and the food is fabulous! There is also a new full-service restaurant located near the Elephant Odyssey – we might consider that, as well. We could also do something fun like put on an exhibit of panda souvenirs and memorabilia – we can ask everyone who is coming to bring along an item or two from their panda collection that they would like to put on display – this could even include panda photographs that the fans have taken. So, panda fans, shall we take up Janan’s offer to organize the pandaholic’s convention?
I wish I could have been there today but will be later this month. I take it from the moderators notes and the panda fans that have already visited the crowds of people don’t seem to bother the little guy? I know everyone is asked to keep their voices down while they walk through but I am so glad hes doing so well.
I was also going to ask about Bai Yuns wrinkled looking fur but I see the question was already posted and forwarded to the panda team.
I worked at home all day yesterday and had the pleasure of taking “Panda Breaks” with my coffee. I swear he is the cutest cub! I loved how mamma would remove him from the limbs she considered to high. And them playing together….just so full of love! Thank you SDZ. You have enriched my life for sure!!
It was great fun to watch Yun Zi’s public debut on the panda cam. A bit jealous of the people that could see him live though. But even on the panda cam it was adorable to see him playing around, and I am always touched by Bai Yun’s role as a wonderful mother. She is a lot of fun. It must be wonderful for a little panda to have such a mother
Uh oh. It’s 4:30 am, Bai is sleeping soundly on the platform, and Yunnie just shimmied down the log into the darkness all by himself. This is the proverbial mother’s nightmare of her toddler waking in the middle of the night and wandering outside or turning on the stove! One can only imagine what he’s up to…is he climbing up and down that stump all by himself? In the dark?! What a little daredevil he is!
Fab!!! I turned the computer on in the classroom and let the kids come in rows to watch cutE-patootie. We had just finished a book on Hua Mei and are beginning our creative writing story on a panda.
#71 Janan
I love the idea of a Panda Convention and you most certainly can count me in as being there. I have never seen a grown Panda in person, let alone a cub, so very exciting. I have heard the hotels are very expensive so any suggestions on where to stay would be helpful also.
Debbie, great blog, you are a natural as are some others.
Hi Debbie,
Our Little Guy is now a Big Baby Boy and has a lot of new “toys” and spaces to explore.
I live so far from you and so , I enjoyed reading detales about the debut day.
Thank you!
Update: Bai slept soundly for an hour after Yunior left. She finally woke up and looked a little baffled before climbing down the log, presumably to go find her cub and deliver a sound scolding!
Debbie thank you so much for sharing your experience and joy at seeing our lil cubbie. I am hoping to get to the zoo something this Spring or Summer to see him and his entire family. Thanks to the SDZ for the great video of Yun Zi’s media debut!
Marie in Montreal, Canada
We can hardly wait to see Yun Zi and all the panda’s when we come to the Zoo for spring break in April. We have never been to the SD Zoo, and are looking forward to the whole experience. We have been watching the sweet little cub on the web cam since he was in his den. You all are doing a wonderful job with the Panda’s!
Judy in Calgary, Alberta, Canada
#54 Marcia — I’m sending my prayers for your kitty and you. I know exactly what you are going through, as I have loved and, sadly, lost many, many kitties over the years (I lost 4 in less than 6 months a little over a year ago). No matter how sad things inevitably get, I would never want to be without one (or many) in my life. They bring such joy. Treasure every moment with your kitty; the happy times will always stay with you.
I noticed the wrinkles on Bia’s back side also…probably like some of us..old age..ho hum……….so let it be. And from having babies.
And what was my Gao doing during all this hoopla? I’m sure being Gao, of course!
I got to see Yun Zi on the cam and couldn’t stop smiling – panda cubs do that just by being but to watch him all wide-eyed and full of wonder in his new world just plants one on my face.
Thanks for the update and I’m glad that so many fans got to see him in action ! ! I’m sure there will be lots of mommy ear and back and hiney biting to come, not to mention those cubbie and mommy monster wrestling matches that we all love. Then there’s the side-by-side boo munching, snuggling in the hammock…the list goes on!
Gosh, wish I was there to see the little guy and his mom. Very special thanks to the SD Zoo for sharing this wonderful occasion.
Thank you Debbie for this post. Thanks for the video. I love watching Yun Zi walk briskly behind his mummy in a panda-cub way and climb trees. Yun Zi is so cute and sweet!!!! Bai Yun is so beautiful and sweet!!!!
#71 Janan, I am hoping to come in early March–probably the second week. I plan to come to the zoo on a weekday, in hopes of avoiding the biggest crowds. If I make it that week, it would NOT be before Tuesday the 9th, as I could not make the drive until that Monday. So count me in as a qualified yes. Thanks for offering to try to plan something!
Wow….Still wish we were able to be there to see Yunior in person , but still waiting for conference call from Lynn’s Doctors on when she will be released or moved closer to home…Thank-You SDZ and GPF Family and Friends for your get well wishes and prayers as you along with the exploits of Yunior are helping Lynn forget the pain and the fact that she is now in year 2 of being Hospitalized….Her only wish is that when released that she has to visit her SoCal Doctors and more importantly see Yunior before he takes to the tree tops… From reading others comments what chance would there be to move the den camera with it’s night viewing capabilities to the platform area so that Yunior and Bai Yun can be seen at night? At least until hopefully a Pandaholic with Entertainment Industry Connection can hopefully help update the Panda’s Exhibit areas to hopefully give us cameras with microphones like Fuji Film did for the National Zoo…..We also could hope that the Pandas Exhibit area can be upgraded to allow all of our fine black and white furry friends would be able to be on exhibit at the same time so that us Gao Gao fans would be able to see him as well as Zhen Zhen,Bai Yun and Yun Zi all at the same time along with space for 18 month old Yunior to move to when Bai Yun gives him the boot ….LOL….
As a side note the NZ Pandas are having a natural snow enrichment day today as they had about 2 inches of snow…..It’s great to see them enjoy the outside area with snow….I also posted more of my various USA Zoo Photos to the SDZ Facebook Page and will add more to them as I find them as I’m going thru many boxes after our recent move into a small apartment…….
“Panda Peace on Earth , Goodwill to All Living Things……”
I remember the time we had Pandas visiting at the Toronto
Zoo.I also cried when I saw them so I know how the people
felt seeing Yun Zi in person.
I love the site and I tell everyone I meet about it!!!
Hello from Toronto!
how many months will YunZ stay with mom?
Moderator’s note: We’ve found that by 17 to 18 months, Bai Yun is ready for a break.
Janan#71 – excellent idea! Would love to see Baby Cloud and meet other Pandaholics. Can you keep us informed of your thoughts?
#69 Carolyn
She’s had those wrinkles for years. Her body condition is that of the elder female panda that she is!
Yesterday was really a Fine Day at the SDZ! The fans were everywhere! The Peacock was hanging out on the entry roof…without his tail!!! The fans either headed to the Pandas or to the tour busses
Arriving at the pandas at 9:10, I found a line waiting to see Yun Zi…who, one guess, was sleeping 
After leaving Yun Zi, I did visit his sisters. Su Lin was awake eating her bamboo 
Zhen was sleeping 
I decided to go up to Elephant Odyssey because I’d not been there since the first week it opened. I really love this area of the SDZ. The plantings are growing quickly and more beautiful animals have settled in. Two are lions. The male was on a rock calmly creating a photo op which could be titled: It’s good to be the King. There are three California Condors and by golly, this trip I actually got to film them spread their wings and fly off their various perches!!! 16 foot wingspans! And, if those moments were not enough, I was able to film Mary the Elephant while she received a pedicure 
Then, after checking on the MeerKat Mob, I headed back down to the pandas. The line was looong, but that meant perhaps the Star was awake 
YES!!! Yun Zi was playing with Bai!!! I filmed what I could and then went out and got back into the even loooonger line 
Bear with the video….shaking and bumping did occur when I zoomed in 
Here is the link:
There are a LOT of Panda Fans!!! I did think that the trees in the classroom have been topped, and this gives me hope that even a month from now Yun Zi will be seen more easily
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kq8Js7XMIzY
Dear everyone,
Thank you to everyone working a the zoo for their tireless attention to all the animals including us two-legged ones. This has been an absolutely amazing journey you have taken me on with Bai Yun and Yun Zi. Who’d of thought I would ever be the proud adoptive mother of a baby panda son????? Thank you SOOOO much, it truely fills a hole in my heart. I will continue watching and reading and contributing from time to time.
In the meantime…
Dear moderator,
I read somewhere that Yun Zi now weighs in at 22 lbs. Is that true??? Or does someone have their facts wrong? Thanks as usual for clarifying things for me.
Love to all our pandas and a beautiful panda-day to all my pandaholic family.
Moderator’s note: Yes, keepers tell us he weighs about 22 pounds (9.9 kilograms).
From all of us to have grown to love the bears in your care… #69 THANK YOU for bring up our wonderful mommy! For the PANDA TEAM a grand THANK YOU FOR JUST BEING YOU! You put up with our questions and answer them greatly! You take care of your/our great bears with total care! Kathy… just for being you and for loving the bears and the fact is so SHOWS ON YOUR FACE every single time you are around them, from the BOTTOM OF MY HEART THANK YOU!!!! Your love and dedication to the bears and going to China to make sure each of them make the move and are happy with their new home before you leave thank you! It must be like watching your own children grow up and move out on their own! Total heart break but then you get to see your “young” spread their wings and make families of their own so total pride comes into play. If you look at the over all picture of all of our babes that have gone back to China… and the children they have had.. Thanks to you all… TOTAL CHILDREN.. How many new pandas are now alive from our babies back in China? How many Grand babies does Bai have I mean? Is there a count or does anyone know? PLEASE I really would love to know.
Moderator’s note: Bai Yun’s daughter Hua Mei has had seven cubs.
Just watched Tai Shan with some time investigating his Transport Case while he was playing in the snow…Mei Xiang again showing signs of scent marking and chirping today as she and Tian Tian have been seperated in anticipation of hopefully having a successful breeding season …We also hope that Memphis Zoo’s Ya Ya also has a cub this year as well and can get their Panda Cam back up after the crash due to all the Yun Zi fever and the announcement of her AI Procedure last Thanksgiving….All while the Zoo Atlanta keepers saw the x-mas tree on the ground after their youngster Xi Lan was doing a bat hanging routine from the hose hammock by both rear legs….LOL… Maybe 2010 will be a year of sadness as we lose our 3 cubs (Tai Shan,Su Lin,Mei Lan) back to China but hopefully 2 more cubs will join us and the remaining cubs(Zhen Zhen,Xi Lan,Yun Zi) for some positive thoughts this year as Yunior becomes a world wide example of a species hopefully coming back from the brink of extinction…..
Yun Zi now has become a Global Phenomenom as more and more world press show our furry ambassador and Pandamania grows at a rate faster than Yunior…The More Pandaholics he creates the better chance we have of preserving and hopefully turning around the one species of plant or animal that becomes extinct every 20 minutes never to be seen again….We all can demand that our so called leaders respect all life on our planet before we too become an endangered species as well…..Again many thanks to the SDZ ,the Moderator’s and all staff for your outstanding job for allowing the GPF’s a forum to discuss our Panda Prince of Peace Yun Zi…..
“Panda Peace on Earth , Goodwill to All Living Things….”
Hi Debbie, Thank you for the great blog. I know exactly what you were feeling. Every time I see a panda my eyes get teary, the heart rate rises and time seems to stand still. I’m glad he really wasn’t aware of the visitors then you could see him behave normally.
If you get a chance, could you give a big thank you to the zoo gardeners. The exhibit looks beautiful and the flowering bushes are fitting to Yun Zi’s first day on public viewing.
#49 Darlene, you’re welcome for the postcards. I had to keep you up to date on everything as at this stage Yun Zi changes so much. We’ll have to talk about going to see him later in the year???
Moderator’s note: I will indeed pass along your compliments to our Horticulture staff.
Just posted a Yun Zi video from Thursday afternoon in the Classroom
Bai is trying to eat bamboo, but Yun Zi wants to play… the result? Some pretty funny, precious moments!!
The link for “Oh Yun Zi! Mommie is Eating!!” is:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aQmwGbVGiqA
Debbie, I was thrilled to see that you wrote the eye witness blog for Yun Zi’s debut! Wonderful, heartfelt reporting!! Thank you #167 SAN Di (previous blog) for the ‘panda’roma view of the exhibit!! It looks so much different on PandaCam!! I’m looking forward to seeing Bobbie Wood’s videos. And Rita Petita has posted some wonderful photos from his debut: http://www.flickr.com/photos/ritapetita/
My Yorkie has graduated from Hospital to Boarding and is feeling much better. That means I can thoroughly enjoy my trip to WAP and SDZ this weekend. I am off to the airport headed from COLD Virginia to warm and sunny CA. WHoopee!
ZZ is on now.. SHE IS SO PRETTY!!! Looks kind of like her daddy!!! She is eating her boo!!! The last update we had on her weight had her at 121 lbs… Don’t get me wrong… that is a full figured girl… but that puts her way under her older sister and her mom. Once Panda’s reach a year old do they continue to gain until they are around 3 or 4 years of age just much slower or is it just that her weight has not been updated in a while? In other words.. how big is our big girl now? SL is just her mommy made over! But not one has had Bai’s face yet! I am thinking Little Yunior is going to be closest to looking like his mommy when he gets older. Bai’s face is what makes her! She just looks at the camera and it’s like she is saying “It’s OK I will not bite, you can come and hug me” But back to ZZ and SL is there a updated weight for them? And will SL get a total check up before leaving? Can we get a cam of that?
Moderator’s note: Your question has been forwarded to our Panda Team.
#71 Janan
I would love to participate in a Pandaholics Convention as well!! Thanks for offering to organize. Of course, it will depend on timing, as I am sure it will with everyone. Just have to pick a date and those who can come will, and the ones who can’t will be jealous!!!
#71 Janan – Yes, yes, YES. You are just the person that we needed!! Thank you so much for offering to take on the leadership roll for the Convention. Just let me know what I can do to help you. I hope too that we can meet with some of the people we’ve come to know through videos and blog entries here on the web site (and moderator Debbie is first on the list!) Special times to visit with the pandas would just be icing on the cake! I am pretty much free all of March so the date is up to the rest of you.
Yun Zi is sleeping this morning. He looks so comfortable. Hopefully he is at least in sight of his adoring fans who’ve come to see him!
#52 Margaret – your Yorkie sounds like he will be in the best of care at the Vet Hospital while you are away. You can fill him in on your adventure when you get back to him.
#54 Marcia – My thoughts are with you and your kitty. I too have loved and lost kitties. I have 2 now. Just love them all you can as long as you can.
I love Bai’s wrinkles. We all, just like Mama Bai, have earned them!
Moderator’s note: Marcia has let me know that her kitty has made a dramatic improvement!
#71 … I would like to participate in a Panda Convention. My time is sort of limited because I have gone back to school … to get a degree. In early March, I will be taking two classes. I can participate for a couple of days. Also, someone asked about motel/hotel prices in San Diego. Perhaps some of us who live in San Diego could host some of you who live far away??? My husband and I live alone and we have a small room with a twin bed. When my daughter and son-in-law come, he sleeps in the twin bed and she sleeps on a … somewhat uncomfortable … fold out bed in the loft. They are not great accomodations, but they are free. It is something to think about.
Although I know I will never see any of my pandas in person, I am grateful for the cams, my fellow panda parents and grandparents, and SDZ staff. I will admit I am green with envy, however, of all who were there for “HIS” debut. What peace and joy ALL animals bring to us.
WOW! I am soooo excited about seeing our little darling!! I am currently checking the RV parks in San Diego area and will get down there later in January. Is there any way to be assured of seeing “ALL” of the pandas…even if we come on different days? We are planning for Jan. 18-21. Of course, we also want to plan some time at the Wild Animal Park. Oh! I’m sooooo excited!! Just have to see Yun Zi while his is so cute and cuddly.
Moderator’s note: There will always be a panda off exhibit. I have not heard when Gao Gao will be trading spaces with one of his daughters. But still, seeing four out of five is pretty good, right?
Becky (#40) maybe you need to break out the permanent Sharpie mark and add you own spot to the panda’s tail (just an idea). Margaret (#52) and Claudia (#58) I am so jealous!! I am still trying to talk hubby into a in-the-near-future trip to SD to see Yuni in person. Was lucky to see ZZ shortly after her debut. Moderater, I have a request please. Could you please ask one of the keepers to do a blog on Gao Gao? It has been a while since we have seen him on cam and his honorary “b-day” is coming up next week. Hope there are plans for special treats and gifts for him!!
Moderator’s note: Will do!
I was wondering if the classroom exhibit is the original viewing exhibit that Hua Mei and Bai Yun used before the renovation of the present exhibit. It look so familiar and I remember seeing Hua Mei as a cub sleeping in the rock moot.
Moderator’s note: It is indeed.
Debbie, thank you for such a wonderful description of Yun Zi’s first trip out to meet his adoring public. I can totally understand the teary eyes a lot of you have had!
Marcia #54, I can’t say it any better than Jane #84. Been there myself too many times. Margaret #101, glad your little Yorkie (I love Yorkies) is feeling better. Now I’m going to look at the new videos that have been posted.
Yun Zi has woken up and is rather taken with the red flowers growing next to the hammock.
As I watch Bai muncing her Boo, I often wonder if Pandas really LOVE the taste or is it instinctual for them to eat it. Hoping there is a “soft chewy center” in the middle of those sticks they chew on! Must say it just doesn’t look too nutritional but judging by how beautiful our SDZ pandas are, it sure must be!
So precious – right now YZ is on a log and playing with the flowers he sees. Too adorable!
Did you see him “smelling the flowers?” That was just adorable. Then to get down off the limb he “dropped and rolled!” What a smart cubbie.
Thank you, Bobbie #95 and Doxie and Rita #100 for those extraordinary images–I never realized you could be so close to Bai and Yun Zi wrestling and playing. And Doxie, thanks for capturing Bai’s double leg boo-assisted “talk to the paw” maneuvers yesterday.
Panda Team #94: Surely Bai is “majestic,” ” experienced,” “queenly,” “wise,”–but “elder”??? She continues to be young in spirit and so far is more than holding her own during playtime–I don’t think she’s ready to be “elder” yet!
11:08am today, there is our little guy climbing high. Opps! He’s lost his footage and around the limb he goes! Hanging upside down , he must be calling “MOM, MOOMM”!!! for along comes mom and plucks him down. What a wonderul attentive mother Bai Yun has become…..
#115 Frances, I totally agree. How many 18 year olds do you know who have 5 children?!!!!! Bai is adorably young at heart; you only have to see how she interacts with her cubs to see how playful she is.
As I stated before, I am determined to come to San Diego. March? I REAL possibility. Like a 90% possibility. It would be great to meet my Panda Family to say nothing of seeing our real Panda Family.
Mister Man was being adorable again this morning. Moderator, I don’t know how you can stay away from him.
Moderator’s note: It’s called “other work that must be done.”
Marcia, I just read the Moderator’s comment that your kitty has improved. I am so pleased for you and him/her. I hope he/she makes a full recovery.
Sssssooooo cute our Yun Zi !!!! Wish I could be there everyday !!! He is adorable playing outside. Can’t wait to get out there to see him, instead of being buried here in Ohio in the snow-yea winter
but I bet Yun Zi would enjoy. Hats off to the SDZ panda team, you guys do such a great job !
Just one thought on the Panda Convention – oh, I love the sound of that – enrichment weekend for March is the 20th and 21st. Get the most bang for the buck being the working theory! Would be nice to see the fun on enrichment days. Oh, I know there’s just toooooo much to see in one trip.
I caught Yun Zi and the bright red flower. He is having so much fun in his new playground.
I was great seeing everyone at the debut yesterday. Although I went through the line, he was sleeping, with an ear poking up…..
I will be going back on Sunday to see him again. In regards to a Panda Convention, I will be keeping an eye out for it…..
Janan#71 – Count me in!! I live in SD and would love to help in any way you need! I agree that lunch sounds like a great plan. What can I do to help???
I was there for Chubbykins’ debut and it was beyond magical. He is far more adorable than he looks on the panda cam… I mean, really, we are talking mega watt charisma and scrumptiousness. Can you tell I am totally besotted? Going back next week with the youngest grandson, who is of course an adoptee ( is that the right word? I adopted Yun Zi for the grandboys). Can’t wait to see the little pudgykins again!
Doxie, as ever, thanks for the delightful videos!
Will gather all pics of His Majesty’s appearance, and post them to Facebook soon!
I love it…Yun Zi is a big boy cub! He truly is. My visit yesterday during lunch was a special treat. I have photos posted in my office from my visit and I can’t take my eyes off them. Wow, if Yun Zi seemed to be a bit behind his siblings in terms of being ready for the big outside world, he has sure made up for it now. I look forward to returning really, really soon. For me, taking an early lunch break from the office seems to be the best plan. I am so lucky to only be a 15 minute drive from the SDZ.
Thanks, Debbie, for your terrific comments. Sharing your experience from yesterday was extra special.
Moderator, thank you for the response re Bai Yun’s back wrinkles. As I said, I had not noticed them before…. In the one picture, they are so symmetrically draped, it almost looks like she’s wearing some kind of skirt.
I have a question…. is Yun Zi going to come out in public every day…or was it just that day for a while?
Moderator’s note: Barring unforeseen circumstances, he’ll be out every day, mornings only, until the Panda Team feels he’s ready for full-day sessions.
#69 Carolyn
I note you mentioned the ‘folds’ or ‘wrinkles’ on Bai’s lower body – to my knowledge they have always been part of her.
Bai had ‘folds’ on her butt when Hau Mei was a young cub – later they both displayed the same characteristics when they were sitting together.
Like many human females Bai has been known to say ‘does my butt look big in this?’
I love love her ‘folds’, they are part of amazing Bai Yun
On occasions after she has weaned an energetic cub the ‘folds’ appear slightly less, when they are evident it means she is relaxed and happy, a much loved and well cared for moma bear.
It would be amazing if Bai Yun and Gao Gao has another cub sometime in the future, undoubtledly they will consider it – we will have to wait and see……
Becky #40… my niece bought me the panda Beanie Baby for my birthday, and I am seriously thinking of taking the black sharpie to its tail…………….
Today I got to see him awake and playing! I was so excited that my hands were shaking and it was hard to take photos. What an amazing experience!
#121 Diana
The weekend of March 20th would work for me!!! Sounds like enrichment weekend is a good time for our Pandaholics Convention!!!
I love the idea of a panda convention someone was talking about in March if so I wouldn’t be able to attend. I think a date in early summer would be better but it’s not up to me it would have to be a time when most of the fans are able to go. We would need a list of hotels and restaurants for all the people from out town and state and be able to get airplane reservations made. Also if you worked getting time off for vacation. Just my thoughts for what it’s worth. lol
I also saw the picture of Tai Shan’s crate it broke my heart as he was my first panda cub I saw on the webcam. Mei Lan was the first cub I saw in person at AZ in 2007 it is so amazing to see them in person. I will miss Su Lin also I found her shortly after finding Tai on the web. It will be sad to see three of our beautiful pandas go home to China. But hopefully Ya Ya, Mei Xiang and Lun Lun will bless us with more wonderful little cubs just keep them in our prayers. But we do have Yun Zi right now to keep our hearts filled.
Thank You camera operators for showing Prince Charming Yun Zi with his smelling of the flowers , now watching him investigate the area around the water fountain…..I definitly have Panda Envy of all of you GPF’s that have gotten to see him live and in person these past two days….It seems like every newspaper I’ve picked up has at least a picture and story on Yunior……I imagine the crowds will be tremendous this weekend but don’t forget to say hello to the sisters Lin Lin and ZZ Top and when any luck maybe someone can finally get an audio of her humming while on display,that is when she comes down out of the trees….LOL… I’m still waiting for Lynn’s Doctors to let me know how much progress she has made and if they will release her or at least get her closer to home….When that happens we hope to have to visit her SoCal Doctors and yes make arrangements for transport to see Yunior as I don’t think she will be walking after spending over one year now in a Hospital Bed…SDZ you’ve meant a lot to her with your assistance in providing transportation around the Zoo in the past and we’ve had great conversations and inside information as we were driven around…. You are a World Class Organization with outstanding people that love their work,and it shows in the care given to the plants and animals on display…..
I also agree that it would be nice to have a blog with pictures about Super Dad Gao Gao next week as I’ve only seen limited quick cam views of him since Yunior became the Global Superstar that he’s become!….
Now watching Yunior scamper up the tree stump portion of the climbing structure and spin around and walk back down….A lot of progress in a short period of time as he gains his tree frog skills that will soon have people wondering where he is until they look up to catch a glance of him high above as the pictures I posted of Lin Lin up above that I took from the Skyway Ride looking down at the exhibit… The camera view of Bai Yun eating her snacks on the platform with Yunior is nice I only wish we could get the den cam swapped so that we can see them after dark as the cam seems to be fading in and out now probably due to all the hits the website is now taking as more and more people dicover the wonder of SDZ’s Pandacams and the Panda Prince of Peace Yun Zi….. And again let’s hope we can get some company involved in Entertainment or Film Production in California or elsewhere to become a sponsor with needed upgrades to the SDZ Infrastructure such as Fuji Films did with the NZ Panda Upgrades with sound ……:-)
“Panda Peace on Earth , Goodwill to All Living Things…..”
Thanks for the great update, Debbie! It was fun to read.
Bai Yun is the eldest or most elder of our female bears here in the U.S. That word conjures up a positive connotation for me, a mark of respect, as opposed to elderly, which Bai Yun most definitely is not. She’s the grande dame of our pandas and the one that everyone can look to for guidance.
Bai just keeps getting more beautiful in my eyes. I think she’s never looked better, whether her fur looks a little pleated or not. I envy her effortless beauty!
What a cutie!!!! I am sad that Yun Zi is growing up so fast but am thankful for his good health and great care that he gets from the San Diego Zoo. I really enjoy his debut film and have watched it several times. Thank you for making his so accessible to me as I live far away in Dublin, Ohi. One day I hope to visit your zoo and see him in person. Happy New Year!!! Char Schoonover
I grew up in Chicago and believe it or not, we had a gaint panda at Brookfiled Zoo. I had a stuffed panda that I carried everywhere with me. I think I was 6 years old when the panda died. I remember seeing the photo on the front page of the newspaper and asking my mother why. That is why I am so happy that our world recognizes these (and many other) special animals.
I also enjoyed seeing the Lesser Pandas when they were on exhibit in SDZ. I don’t think they are in anyway related, but they sure were fun to watch.
I hope to make the drive from LA area to see Yunior very soon.
I am also in San Diego, two blocks as the crow flies, from the Zoo. I’d be glad to help. We would have better hotel rates if we avoid summer. February is our “rainy” month but March is delightful
Native Californian!
Moderator:
It’s 3:00pm Friday, Bai Yun is sleeping with Yun Zi, There are large pellets by moms bottom, is this pooh? If so, Do they sleep in their pooh? Who cleans up and how often?
Moderator’s note: Panda feces is very soft, not firm like a pellet. They do not sleep in it and the keepers provide the daily cleaning.
#71, Panda convention in S.D. this sounds like a great idea! Beginning of Spring!
#54 Marcia – thanks for sharing the good news on your Kitty.
I hope to get there during my spring break…the last week in March. I just love the debut video…when little Yun Zi plopped to the ground my first reaction was “D’oh!!!!!!” Then I chuckled as if he was showing off and just entertaining us. When he got back up, all the debris from the ground. Just too cute. Every bit of him.
Good info to know, Bonnie #136. March just might be perfect! Moderator, do you think you’d say hi to us? We’ve relied on you for such a long time. It would be my pleasure to buy you a “soda.” You’ve been so good to us.
Moderator’s note: I would happily stop by to meet panda fans!
I agree, Lee #99, the gardeners certainly need complimented for their arduous and attractive work on the exhibits’ landscaping and maintenance. Bai Yun & Yun Zi looked so beautiful among the red of the Cape Honeysuckle, but then I can’t think of any color that those two wouldn’t compliment with their gorgeous black & white coats ! What “Show Stoppers” they are indeed….. I always get that “warm, fuzzy” feeling when I see them.
Everyone involved in yesterday’s debut preparations needs to be complimented too !
I can only imagine all the time and effort that you all exerted to make it happen.
It’s always interesting to me that we are all in love with Bai & Baby, but it is YOU,
the whole staff, behind the scenes, that makes it possible for us to experience that.
I don’t know how to say “Thank You” in all the languages around the world, so I’ll
just say, “Thank You” from the world’s hearts to yours.
Moderator’s note: I’ll pass along your compliments!
I am also in San Diego and would love to see a Pandaholics convention in March. I don’t know how you would arrange it, but it would be fun to see & talk to those who comment week after week. Plus getting to see Yun Zi is just frosting on the cake. Haven’t been there yet but am hoping to get there in March.
DoxiMom # 100: Thank you very much for creating the ‘Yun Zi, Mommy is eating’ video!!!! Priceless Moments!!
Also think you for posting the RitaPetita photo link!!! Those are Fantastic photos!!!
Ro Panda Staff: I forgot to mention how beautiful I thought all three exhibits are with all the new sod and TLC the plantings have been given!!! Thank you all!!!
Is anyone else picking up a lot of writing on the panda cam? Never seen it there before. Thanks.
Moderator’s note: I’m seeing it too from home. Don’t know what’s up!
Does the PandaCam of Yunior now on showing PELCO SPECTRA III SE VERSION 1.28.0085 CONFIGURE DONE …..Which is clear and focused mean that they swapped out camera 15 for another camera?
Moderator’s note: Good question!
Just checking in for the first time since early this morning and what a picture on the platform in the Garden Room. The camera is different. You can see every hair on Yun Zi and I can clearly see his panda paws, with which I am so taken by anyway. To whom do we owe the change in cameras to? Also, there have been many comments today on the beautiful landscape in the Classroom area this week. I too agree that it is beautiful and the red flowers on the bushes are spectacular. And how I long for the San Diego sunshine! Count me in for March.
A convention would be good in May when all the Jacaranda trees are in bloom. Some day there will be a festival during the tree blooming.
I can’t believe Hua Mei has had 7 cubs already at her age! Isn’t that over breeding?
Her mother has only had 5 in 18 years.
Moderator’s note: Hua Mei had 3 sets of twins, and then a singleton cub in 2009.
Does the script showing on Pandacam 15 of Yunior on the Platform:
PELCO SPECTRA III SE ……………………………………….. CONFIGURE DONE…Mean that perhaps the camera that was cutting in and out earlier has been swapped out?If you look up Cute in the Dictionary all you have to do is put his picture in as a definition….LOL…… If so will we have night vision capabilities? Thank-You from all the GPF’s if this is so…..
“Panda Peace on Earth, Goodwill to All Living Things….”
Do we have a new cam in the gardenroom? It’s a little after 5:00 and it shows some type of configuration going on.
Moderator’s note: I’ll try to find out.
my heart hurts when i read about yuni being a “big boy.”
i would like for him to stay a roly poly cubbie for at least a year. they do grow so fast, don’t they.
not surprised our little prince performed perfectly for his debut.
also have loved m. bai’s folds from the first time i noticed them.
happy to hear of marcia’s cat’s recovery. i too am a cat (animal) person.
stay warm, all panda family.
joan
painted post, n.y.
This is my first time seeing the birth of Yun Zi and seeing him get his exams, watching the Panda cam, reading the blogs, the panda shower, getting to be a part of voting for his name, etc. Debbie’s blog made my eyes water (in a good way) because I could hear her excitement and then just describing the experience. Yun Zei has stolen many hearts as well as mine. Thanks to all of you for making this such a wonderful experience.
Thank you all for your wonderful warm thoughts about my kitty! I have “met” the nicest people courtesy of the San Diego Zoo. My kitty is home! He is still very fragile, but he is in no pain, and we are so happy to have some more time with him.
So happy for all you panda lovers lucky enough to be visiting our panda prince this week. I just LOVED watching the video clip of him on the news and his little wobbly prance as he ran after Mama Bai.
Oh, I’m soooooo jealous with all of you who can see Yunior & other pandas in person. I wish I can join the pandaholics convention, but I am half the globe away. Has to satisfy myself with videos, pics, and cams. SIGH!
Well, will some (or should I say LOTS?) virtual seats available for pandaholics that will not be able to came in person? I want to book two seats for my and my bro.
Please, please someone promise to upload videos and pics from the convention, and of course of the pandas … DoxieMom perhaps?
And perhaps someone should open a page on facebook. That way all bloggers and pandafans will be able to get information and updates about this convention. Put an open invitation on the wall, so people can klik YES or NO, whether they will be present or not. Based on my experience from our last class reunion, it is one of the easy way to keep many people updated. Just an idea …
Rita Petita’s photos are amazing. Follow the link from DoxieMom (#100). I had to put in a search of her site for Yun Zi. I know you will all love them. How much more can we thank DoxieMom for keeping us all in the loop?
Everything positive!
Hello…what wonderful response for a Panda Convention!! I think the weekend of Enrichment would be great.
That is March 20, and 21. Going then will be nice weather and before the crowds come for Easter break and summer.
I live in Northern CA, but can definitely help plan the convention with the help of all those living in the area down there.
Is anyone familiar with the hotels/motels near the zoo? If the moderator will allow it, I will post my email address in my next blog and everyone that wants to participate can individually email me. Also, from looking over these blogs, it seems that Becky #105, Liana #123, Bonnie #136, and Dorothy #143 all live in the area and are willing to help me. There may be more of you, so speak up. My vision is something like meeting at the zoo for maybe a “behind the scenes” tour of the pandas, or something early in the morning before the zoo opens. Then speaking with our moderator and Kathy, and hopefully anyone else that can meet with us. Then, having lunch at the restaurant that someone mentioned on the property up in the trees. Later meeting at a restaurant for dinner and getting to know one another. Maybe all dress in black and white!!! Wouldn’t that be fun!!! Anyway, your thoughts…..
Oh Lucy #135, you would enjoy the book The Lady and the Panda about Ruth Harkness and the baby panda she brought back to the US the first Panda, named Su Lin, and was at the Chicago Brookfield Zoo.
Moderator’s note: Janan, rather than posting your e-mail in this forum, could you set up a Facebook or similar page where interested panda fans could contact you?
ONLY 1600 of them in the world, or is it in the wild??? NO ITS 1601, YIPEE….I will be visiting this weekend, so if you see someone crying with joy it will be me….
Panda Fan gathering in March sounds great. My hubby gave me a trip to see Yunior for Christmas but I had visions of going from Houston to SD and yet missing His Cuteness by bad timing. Good to know he’ll be “out” everyday. I told myself that have the advantage of the wonderful pandacam (plus Doxiemom’s catching things we miss) and the occasional videos when watching from home.
However, Debbie you and others who have talked about being up close and personal with pandas have changed my mind. March is perfect. I’ll be there. I’ll watch the blogs for details.
Thank you all for making all of this possible.
A quick thank you to those who suggested that I use a marker to put the black spot on my grandson’s panda. I may do that later but this first panda came attached to a teething ring. Since he might put it in his mouth, I will play it safe and not mark on this one.
I am already starting to wonder about Yun Zi’s children … if they will have web feet and a black spot on their tails … or perhaps something else that is … different??? What a special little guy!!
Awwwwww.
I thought we’d seen the last of the den. Juuuuust maybe we’d see Yunnie take a quick nap, but I wasn’t counting on it.
And then…there they are this morning, mother and cub, curled up together in their cozy little den. My heart just melted.
Oh! So nice to see puffy sleeping in the den again – he looks so sweet dreaming little panda dreams. Sleep Little Cloud – you need to rest up for your adoring fans!
Great photos & videos of Yuni & his mom. Note to Janan who is planning the “panda convention”. Have you cheked with Tourist’s Bureau about any scheduled conventions or golf tournaments March 20 – 21?
That may determine available hotel space. Anyhow, the panda convention is a GREAT idea.
OK…For all the Pandaholics out there a sleepless night and YouTube searches I posted a lot of great videos to the SDZ Facebook Page last night and to my Facebook Page….Also for those of you that wonder how to get Daniels multi cam page I also put a direct link to it……I put up videos of all 3 cubs soon to join the breeding in China including many of Tai Shan and his evolution of becoming a major Tree Surfer Dude…. LOL…..So enjoy a retrospection of the Pandas and their Family Trees…..There are also great videos of Austria and some that will rot your teeth with sweetness from around the world…To find the SDZ Facebook Links Page click below at :
http://www.facebook.com/posted.php?id=28896772146&share_id=202203732617&comments=1s202203732617#/posted.php?id=28896772146&start=0&hash=8280619784f4eb3d78186ed2bfa901bf
There are two videos one titled Miracle Panda :http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zneYBxTdMSI
You can see this building and the destruction from the Earthquake’s Aftermath at Quake Pandas Hanging on : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YnGtfFSPNOM
Finally any word on what happened last night with the improvement in Pandacam 15? It didn’t have night view but was super clear over the images that were cutting in and out yesterday afternoon?
“Panda Peace on Earth, Goodwill to All Living Things……”
Moderator’s note: I probably won’t have an answer until Monday.
Ladies, This is Rita Petita:
Thank you for your wonderful comments on my photos. There are quite a number of very good photographers from San Diego and Los Angeles dedicated to Bai Yun’s family.
I would also like to hear from the panda convention leader if possible, would love to participate in the photography area.
The San Diego Zoo has once again given us the best experience ever – Bai Yun and her family are truly loved and well cared for, but it is not just the pandas all the other animals thrive under their care.
I keep forgetting to ask, but this question keeps coming back to me…is Yun-Zi still nursing? Everytime I see them, I don’t see him nursing anymore and was curious if he still is?
Moderator’s note: He is still nursing a few times a day.
95 Dear Bobbie Wood,
I have not had much time in the last week to log on so I have a lot of blog reading to catch up on, but the angels work in mysterious ways, and for some reason as I was scanning down just to see how many blogs I had to catch up on, my eyes fell on yours to read…and I watched your video of Yun Zi’s debut on the 7th. You actually made me cry, it was so beautiful. I don’t know how to thank you from my heart or how to express how much it means to me. I may never get to see my adopted son Yun Zi in person, so the videos and pictures people post mean a lot to me. I REALLY love the little guy and Bai Yun and I find their interactions so pure and beautiful that it is difficult to put into words. Well, I have to get back to some pretty upsetting paperwork right now, so thanks again for the moment of beauty you put into my day.
I have been watching the NZ’s pandas this morning, Mei Xiang and Tian Tian, “dancing” over and over again. How exciting! I can just hear Beary White singing “Can’t get enough of your love, Baby.” Here’s hoping Mei will actually conceive this year.
I have my Google Alerts set for Giant Panda, and it’s amazing how many news stories I’m getting about Yun Zi’s debut — and those are just the ones in English. Truly an international celebrity. Not just because he is rare and adorable, I think, but because he made that funny fall and then picked himself up again. Very good clip for news sites. Of course, we who are watching him know that happens over and over. Also, of course, the world is watching because the SDZ does such a great job with the panda cubs, protecting them and making them available to all of us, press and civilians, near and far, so more and more people can fall in love! The plantings do look lovely. I was happy to see Yun Zi appreciating them. Oh, to be in San Diego. It is really cold here in New York!
It’s 1:50 p.m. on the Eastern coast and Tian Tian and Mei Xiang are mating! Tian Tian is very persistent, but Mei Xiang seems to, once again, not be presenting herself correctly (this is my uneducated viewing of the event). We really need a cubbie from them since Tai Shan is leaving very soon. I live too far away to visit Yun Zi, so my hope is to be able to see 3 cubbies on the East coast. Let’s cross our psuedo thumbs.
Janan, there is a Group on Flickr called Pandas Unlimited. Information about all of the US pandas is shared there. Threads are started for special occasions, such as today there was a 4 1/2 year party at the NZ for Tai as he will be leaving soon. If you started a thread, plans and all the folks who are interested could post there and you could communicate personal information through Flickrmail.
#156 Janan Huntsberry – I don’t participate in Facebook or other social sites because of cyber-security issues, so I am withdrawing my interest in participating in the pandaholics get together at the San Diego Zoo. I’m sure everyone will have a great time! Thanks for your efforts.
Moderator’s note: Don’t give up so soon! If something is planned, we’ll be sure to let everyone know through our blog section.
A panda convention would be such a delight getting to meet the keepers, moderators and other bloggers. Speaking from cold snowy MA (though not as bad as you folks further to the middle of the country) my only thought is that air travel can be tricky for many of us in March so a date a little later on would be helpful. The May suggestion sounded very nice. Enjoying wathing Yun and Bai playing – and I’ll be sure to close out when I’m done!
Watching mother and son play on panda cam. BUT, the cam is dirty !!! Arrgghhhhh !!
It is so good to see Bai Yun back in action. She knows how to play.
These questions may be for the Panda Team or any longtime Pandaholics…
Has Bai always been this playful with her cubs? Is she the Queen B of Moms because of her age or she just a natural Mom for the first born?
I was looking at the pictures from Rita Pitita of the Pandas.. Are they all SDZ pandas? How can you tell which is which? Gao Gao is easy of course… I’ve read from other blogs that some feel that Su Lin and Zhen Zhen look more like Dad… what features have they inherited?
The Panda Convention sounds wonderful.. Hopefully this will become an annual event so that those of us who can’t make it this might be able for future get togethers!
Its cold and snowy in Columbus OH… the SDZ Pandas would LOVE it!!
I sometimes think that this blog has become like our own little “den”. It can feel so warm and safe and just full of love at times. I bet Momma Bai Yun and Little Cloud would feel right at home if they could come and visit us
#129 Sarah – Awww, bless your heart girl! I know what you mean. I get so excited and happy just being able to look at a new video or pics. Did you get to hear Yun Zi squeak or chirp?
#128 Carolyn in Monterey – LOL!!! You go girl!! HeeHee put that Sharpie into action
OMG the little guy is so cute & I cannot wait until my Feb visit – I guess I know where I will be every AM – I feel so lucky to have seen all of the cubs when they were new to the exhibit and people. Yun Zi sounds like a media star in the making. The Panda Convention sounds great to me too. Hubby is retired and any excuse to be in SD works for us!
Have you provided Yun Zi with a rubber tub yet?
OK I see a Panda playing with a pinecone in a puddle in the pool………………about 11:30…..pretty precious….
#176 Tiny – I did not get to hear him make any noise, but I did get to watch him play with a flower and got some fantastic pics of that. I also got a pic of Bai Yun sleeping and she was drooling! I had not noticed that in person, but it was very obvious in the pics. Cute!
I was finally able to spend some time here today. I have missed all of you, and it took some time to catch up on all the chat. I loved seeing Miss Precious today, deeply concentrating on her bamboo brunch. She looks lovely with the flower background. And she has certainly grown, considerably, over the last few months. Then we were treated to seeing Bai and littlest prince in a nursing bout, followed by a LONG wrestling bout. The prince was not intimidated by Mom’s gentle dominance, and I got the feeling he thought he was winning! But then, doesn’t Momma Bai always let him win?
It was gratifying to read the renewed interest in a Pandaholics Convention. I hope it happens. I don’t know if I will be able to participate any time soon, as it all depends on how well my finances rebound. As I posted earlier (previous blog), I encountered a situation that affected my finances. Hence, I don’t think I’ll be able to travel before May, probably.
Just posted a Yun Zi video from Friday, footage taken in the late morning and early afternoon
2 scenes: The 1st is Yun Zi playing with the red flowers beside his hammock. The 2nd shows off his climbing skills, how far they’ve come. Yun Zi goes up and down the limb that connects his tree stumps, turning around, almost losing his balance, but successfully getting down!
The link for “Yun Zi: Nature Lover!!” is:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cnI0l1jtJtg
Keep watching Rita’s Flickr page as she always adding new photos of Yun Zi, including some with the red flowers!
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ritapetita/
For anyone interested in NZ happenings: Mei Xiang has come in estrus, and she and Tian have been together today. I couldn’t watch very long, as I felt so sorry for Mei. Tian is so impatiient, and his methods seem so brutal to my eyes. :/ Anyway, they will probably perform AI during the next 12 (or so) hours. And so it goes at National Zoo. I really hope and pray for a cub from Mei this year, as that is the only thing that will soothe my heart from losing Tai. I have been watching him every chance I get. FONZ will host a ‘Farewell to Tai Shan’ event on January 30, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. No other details have been released at this time.
So, Yun Zi goes out in the mornings, and later goes out all day? What fun! I remember Zhennie, no matter where she was, she was always up a tree. (That’s why she becomes the Christmas Star every holiday season.)
Just wondering is it pretty much set that if we have a together at the Zoo in March? If so I will be out of the loop for it,
sure wish it was later. But I know the ones who can make it will have a wonderful time.
To see a panda in person is to much for words and to see Yun Zi would be breath taking.
Wow….If you go to the NZ Pandacams you can hear Mei bleating as she must be in estrus….Let’s all hope that Tian Tian can figure out how to perform perhaps Panda Porn?……LOL……Or at least keep our fingers and toes crossed that an AI will work to give us a Tai Shan replacement as I watched him napping next to his Travel Cage this morning and it’s bittersweet feeling knowing that Tai will not be seen Tree Surfing any more yet hopefully he’ll figure out the birds and the bees better than Tian Tian and produce some fantastic cubs in the future…. Still waiting for the Doctor’s to review Lynn’s Test Results for her Blood Clot to see if and when she will either be released or moved to a facility closer to home…. Let’s all hope that Yunior gets some more Cousins in Memphis and National Zoo in 2010 as that will help ease the pain of losing our 3 babies to the breeding pool in China….
Daniels multizoo Pandacam website is a blessing to all of us Pandaholics as you get to see both NZ Pandacams along with SDZ,Memphis,and M-F Zoo Atlanta all at the same time…. Again I posted a link to his site on the SDZ Facebook Page as listed above……Another nice suggestion would be for us to come up with either a GPF Pin or Embroidered Patch so that all of us GPF’s (Global Panda Fans) can be recognized at the SDZ and other Panda Locations around the World as we are a Global Family suffering from Pandaholicism which is a great addiction to have …LOL….
“Panda Peace on Earth , Goodwill to All Living Things….”
The sharpie idea is too clever. All of our plush panda cubbies will be sporting black tips on their tails!
#156 Janan – Your ideas sound great. Lunch at one of the zoos restaurants may depend on the number of attendees. Someone who goes to the SDZ frequently may know better about facilities. Or reserving an area for large groups? I too am from No. Calif. Let us all know what you decide to do as far as Facebook or Flickr or whatever for correspondence. I don’t belong to either but can figure out how to get signed up. I was planning on checking into RV sites. If husband goes, the 5th wheel and the kitties will come too.
Thank you Mollie AKA Rita Petita for all the pix; and the offer of photography at the Convention. How cool.
Bai and the little guy playing is just so much fun. She’s the best mama. It’s hard to get work done!
Do you get to stop by daily to see Yun Zi, Moderator? Or many times daily?! LOL
Greetings Everyone from HOT Adelaide
It is going to be 43 degrees today and tomorrow ( that is 110 in the US)
I have been off volunteering with Red Cross with their emergency call response to the elderly and younger disabled so have missed most of the Panda cam.
Thank goodness I can catch up with videos, photos and blogs from staff and all GPF. Thank you all so very, very much
Doxiemom19 thank you so much for the Yun Zi, mommy is eating video. I sobbed and laughed throughout the video. In California do you have a “Mother of the Year” competition. I would love to nominate Bai Yun.
She is patient, caring, loving and responsible and teaches Yun Zi about living skills, behaviour boundaries, taking risks, having fun. What an amazing mother – we “Hoomans” could all learn from her example.
Wow – a Panda Fan Convention – at this stage put me down for a virtual visit but if I win Lotto on Monday I will quickly book my flight from Adelaide.
Lots of Panda Hug and kisses from Adelaide
PS Wang Wang and Funi are out of quarantine and will be in their outside enclosures from Tuesday when the weather will be a much milder day – thank goodness. I am off to see them again on Wednesday morning
Rita Pitita aka Mollie,
Are you a professional photographer? Your photos are fantastic… Great up close shots of the Pandas…
I finally found a wonderful video of Tai Shan and his mother Mei Xiang that I had been looking for. I didn’t have to look far since it is available right on the National Zoo’s website under theiir panda cam. This is of Tai Shan, who is leaving for China soon, running into his mom while rounding a corner. Mom proceeds to return Tai to a spot she deemed appropriate for him to be. ( Moderator, I have never added something like this, so I hope it is appropriate and also possible. Maybe it can’t be moved from the National Zoo’s website. I can’t seem to find it on UTube).
http://nationalzoo.si.edu/Animals/GiantPandas/default.cfm?cam=PC4
To Phyllis #166: You are right, Angels do work in mysterious ways. Your comment made my day today as I have just returned from a beautiful Memorial Service for a dear friend who was one fine human being. And uplifting as it was, a ‘smile’ from you really made a sparkle come my way. I promise that I will post video each time I get back from the SDZ…It is a wonderful experience in every way!
i never bog but every day i watch these beautiful creatures. I was in San Diego and went to the WILD zoo and was thrilled by the different zebra stipes…lol..but your Pandas are the cutest ever. I like seeing the other live feeds on the polar bears and the elephants. Thank you all for caring soooo much for this species now how about the others???
Just created a Facebook page called Panda-fandom Worldwide, http://www.facebook.com/help/#/group.php?gid=272470520621 so that we can use that for planning our little panda convention in March. Also, I left it open so people can post pictures, videos (hint, hint Doxie!!) and any discussions they want to start about our beloved pandas.
Hope this helps.
I saw Yun Zi on Good Morning America the other day! I never knew you were supposed to hold them like you would a guinea pig! So cute, you little rascal!
Janan, I also do not participate in facebook or any of the others, so unless something else happens, I may not be able to particpate with you all. I would be very disappointed because I would love to meet all the Panda Fans, Moderator and anyone else I have missed. Keeping fingers crossed something can work out.
Moderator’s note: We will let our panda fans know about a get-together via these blog.
Jane, #169, I agree……..Tian looked like he was trying from time to time to assist Mei in “positioning.” Like he kinda knew what was wrong but he wasn’t sure. While he was VERY persistent, I was wondering, how do I say this delicately, how successful their “dancing” was. They have had problems in the past. Prayers for a cubbie for them.
I just about cracked up a couple of minutes ago. Lin Ping was trying her best to do a head stand on her bed. It was too cute.
I’ve looked at the hotels listed on SDZ site that offer packages/special rates for Zoo visitors. I don’t know if in fact these are specials or not. Anyone in SD know? I don’t know anything about SD or their hotels. But maybe one of them would be a possibility? And I was wondering if any of them offer shuttles to the Zoo. Lots of questions, hunh? As for a Facebook page, I know the ship we go on in Tahiti has a FB page for their crew/former crew. Maybe we could set one up for SDZ Pandaholics/Family? Not sure how that would work but it’s a thought.
#196 Linda A. – see #193 Liana in San Diego – she has gone ahead and set up a Facebook page. Thanks a lot, Liana!
#156 Janan and #187 Diana S. – the zoo has what they call “Zoo Catered Admission Packages” specifically for groups. I think these might just fit the bill for the pandaholics convention. See their page at:
http://www.sandiegozoo.org/catering/catering_zoo.html
There is a number to call for more information. If we work with them, it might just make things easier on the organizing end.
Also, now that Liana has set up a Facebook page for us, we should now start using it for our convention-related discussions. Our kind moderator has indicated that panda fans who will not have access to Facebook will be kept in the loop via the regular blogs.
Janan, count me in too.
I just joined Panda-fandom Worldwide. Thank you for setting it up, Liana. Four (4) members so far!
Also, thank you for the videos and photos – DoxieMom, Bobbie, and Mollie. They are all great.
Sad to think that Yun Zi is growing too fast. Can’t stop progress, I suppose…
Dennis & Lynn Carney (NJ) – you are almost there. I will be praying for you both.
Yun Zi, my baby, I love you.
Hi,
I just wanna suggest this; for those who can, meet in March and those of us who cant come so early to SDZ, can aim for a Birthday Party for Yun Zi in August???? Any excuse to party with chubby cubby right?
Oh my the panda that I have just seem was so heartwarmingly adorable I wish I could own one.
I am in tears just looking at his royal cuteness! What a wonderful video-thank you for creating this for those of us who cannot make it over to SDZ. He is gorgeous and having such fun investigating. It was nice to see Bai up close, too, munching on the boo and playing with the ball to make food fall out. Were those carrots or some kind of fruit?
Moderator’s note: Those are biscuits designed for leaf-eating animals. Very tasty (if you’re a panda or monkey or giraffe…)!
When will Yun Zie and his mom be introduced to the other pandas?
Moderator’s note: We keep our pandas separate (unless we have a mother and cub or it’s breeding time).
Oh, those fleeting morning moments in the Den…I’m just savoring all of them. It’s just the sweetest thing!
Just posted a Yun Zi video from Saturday using both video footage and screen images as Yun Zi sometimes disappears on video due to the contrast and the sunlight!!!
It begins with Yun Zi climbing up to the planks by the ‘den’, followed by Yun Zi playing with a pinecone, and finally back to the ‘den’ to roll around in the sawdust! Precious, adorable, heartwarming!!!
The link for “Yun Zi, a Pinecone and Sawdust!!” is:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9uWVLvFX6_Q
I just saw some pictures on flickr of Tai Shan they had a half year birthday party for him with his favorite present honey. So sad he won’t be here for his 5th birthday. Also some picture of Mei and Tian mating some are pretty funny not sure they were going to work.
I seen January 30th they are having a farewell party for Tai Shan at the NZ. Just wondering are they having anything for Su Lin before she leaves for China?
Moderator’s note: We don’t even have a date for her departure yet.
As we watch the hopefull mating attempts at the NZ and hope to get a replacement for Tai one wonders if perhaps we should put Gao Gao on an airplane to “git er done” or supply Panda Porn of Gao Gao and Bai Yun as a needed lesson …..LOL….We all hope for the possibility of seeing a baby at the NZ as well as Memphis in 2010 to fill the holes in all of our hearts for seeing 3 of our babies grown up and leaving soon for the breeding pool in China….It seems that Tai was the first Ambassador for Pandas due to all the national and international press and multiple TV shows about his life…..I know that visiting Mei and Tian turned us into Pandaholics and made us visit Atlanta and numerous trips to our favorite SDZ due to the closeup experience where you almost can touch the Pandas and actually hear and feel their breath if they are facing you….Any chance that we will see a PBS followup on Zhen Zhen’s ” A Panda Tale” or hopefully one on Yun Zi now that he has stolen Hearts Worldwide?
Yunior will shortly become more and more tolerant of the crowds and like his siblings before him will soon be placed in the left side exhibit area and become a typical Tree Frog taking to the heights while Gao Gao and Zhen Zhen swap places in the right side exhibit area…We will all miss our sweet Princess Lin Lin as she stole our hearts as well but look forward to hearing her become a Great Mom like Bai Yun and her 1/2 sister as it’s definitly in her Genetic make up to become a super mom….
“Panda Peace on Earth , Goodwill to All Living Things…..” And a hopeful GPF Convention in 2010 at SDZ…..
A question for the panda team:
In light of the activity at NZ with Mei ready for an early breeding season…
I had a mare years ago that I wanted to breed. Because we had to rent the trailer and coordinate truck to take her to the stallion, I had my vet give her a shot to ensure that she (and her eggs) were ready when we were… it worked perfectly.
I’m wondering if anything is being studied for pandas that would do this. It sure would help…in case the ‘perfect time’ was missed… perhaps even to encourage an extra opportunity in the once a year breeding window.
Of course, SDZ and Bai and Gao sure don’t need this…
sounds like a great project… if you need any volunteers… I’m here!
#180 Sarah, wonderful you were able to see the Pandas, Can you post your pics? They sound good enough to share.
Thank you!
3:07 pm EST today ZZ is on the cam going wild. What is in the burlap sack? Panda Nip!! She is rolling around on it, running around after scent marking it, and in general just having a grand time. Cute to see her act like a cub. She is a beautiful teenage panda.
Thanks, Bobbie Wood, for posting your wonderful video of Yun Zi’s debut. It is much appreciated!
It looks like Mamma Bai and Chubby Cubbie (aka Yun Zi) were having a wrestling match at 1530 est, I think Mamma won. I have a lot of respect for Mamma B. she has creases (wrinkles) like me. And I only have one cub (child) 16 yrs. old. Mamma Bai has 5 children and 7 Grand Children, when I come back in my 2nd life I want to be a SDZ Giant Panda Bear !!!
I decided to make a black and white cake today in honor of the little chub muffin! I love you SO much Yun Zi! You are the joy of my life. Thanks SDZ staff for taking care of my little sweet heart and his family!
Mollie/Rita Pepita, Your pictures are wonderful! The animals really like you. LOL Thanks so much for sharing with us!
I didn’t get to see him because i was at school
. But I’m so proud of him 
. 1,000,000,000 hugs & kisses for the little white fuzzball!!!!!!!! I hope I get to see him next time I come & see him!!! XOXO 
Re: the panda convention suggest calling the SD Covention & Visitors Bureau for help & advice – they have a ton of info available & will be happy to help
(My hubby worked for a CVB here in Mich)
196 Linda: Mei was artificially inseminated twice – once last night and once this morning the papers are saying. Let us pray she has a successful pregnancy this year so she and Tian can stay in the U.S. where they belong!
Mei and Tian were in the St. Petersburg newspaper today!
#216- I hope that the pregnancy goes well too.
#199 Lucilla – A convention in March, and a birthday party in August. Sounds good to me.
Since I am already counted in for the convention, count me in for the b-day party too.
Maybe Liana could pencil this in as a future discussion topic.
Yun Zi, get ready, here we come!
# 206 Dennis & Lynn Carney (NJ) – Dennis, you make me laugh. Gao Gao, another Pan Pan in the making!
Yay!!!! I just saw him slither down the log that he has been trying so hard to use to get down off the platform. Might not be the first time, but the first one I have seen.
kathy 216. i havent seen anything about mei having A.I. what paper was it in. i live about 1hr away from d.c. and i havent seen anything on the news or in our local paper. there havent been any updates on their web site either. i sure hope she will have a cub this year. it was agonizing waiting for news last year. i would watch the cams all nite when she looked like she was in labor. i sure will miss tai. i saw him last november. i hope to get up to d.c. before he leaves. i just signed up on facebook but am not familiar with it. im not very computer savvy !!!!. love seeing all the videos and pictures of bei and yunzi. also saw zhennie and su lin today on the cams
love watching both momma b and baby. i’ve also been watching linping who is her mother? don’t know chinese lol just love to watch when everthing is dark at sd. thanks for the info anyone.
#220 Doreen: It was on the Washington Post web site, the LA Times site and the Zoo & Aquarium Visitor site. Just do a search on NZ pandas and click News and the articles will come up for you. I watched Mei last year as well and I too was so convinced she was pregnant. I hope this is the year she surprises us all, I know I will be sending loads of positive karma her way!
#220 Doreen
It’s in the Washington Post. Mei Xiang had an AI on Saturday evening and Sunday morning. Fingers crossed for a cubbie(s).
Let’s all keep our GPF Fingers and toes crossed that the AI in the NZ as well as at Memphis Zoo both result in replacement cubbies in 2010…..
“Panda Peace on Earth , Goodwill to All Living Things……”
#220- The article that I read was in the St. Petersburg (Tampa, Florida) newspaper.
Canada needs to work on getting some pandas in our zoos… or do we have some that I don’t know about? Because I know there aren’t any in Quebec.
Is there any chance there will ever be pandas in the Wild Animal Park where they could enjoy a larger habitat?
Moderator’s note: There are no plans for bringing the pandas to the Wild Animal Park at this time.
Moderator: Is there a problem with the blog? When I posted a comment it just disappear, it doesn’t show a awaiting moderation as usual.
Thanks.
Danielle
Moderator’s note: Not that I know of. Are others having a problem with our comment section?
i was lucky enough to be at the nz on saturday to celebrate tai’s 4 1/2 year birthday and was able to watch mei and tian mate – how extraordinary to be able to witness something so rare. they closed the panda house a 2 pm to prepare for a ai and they did another on sunday. they was some natual mating but the zoo was not sure if it was completed successfully enough so they also did the ai. at one point mei and tian went into the crate they have in yard one for tai’s big adventure to mate.
I’ve been watching LingPing too in the mornings when SDZ is still dark. She is a cutie.. This morning while Mom was sleeping on her side, LingPing thought she would wake Mom up for some playtime. She does this by crawling up ON Mom and then walking on her …. then going up to her head, rolls off and proceeds to chew on Mom’s face…
Bai really likes to sleep up on top of that tree structure. Question for someone – since I’ve just been watching after Yun Zi was born… Has this structure always been a favorite for Bai or is it since Yun Zi likes to sleep in the hammock below her? At what point did Bai stop climbing after getting pregnant.. or did she stop?
Panda cubs are growing way too fast… The panda update on the Atlanta website reminds us that Xi Lan is a big boy now, eating his bamboo and putting on weight, 33.2 kg as of this morning. It is good news as he is getting closer to weaning. If the subject interests you, there is also some detailed description of poos…
Marie #226
Good news for you!
A press release from the Toronto Zoo on Dec 10/09 states: “The possibility of a future giant panda exhibit at the TZ received positive support from the Zoo’s Board of Management today”.
Letters of intent between China and Canada for future exchanges of various animals, including a breeding pair of pandas, have been reaffirmed. It would be a 10 year exchange and word is it could happen as early as 2 years from now. (fingers crossed)
Since I live only 2 hours from Toronto, you can only imagine how excited I am!!
Moderator: Yes, I noticed. I was wondering if changes were made as to what can be posted as comments. As you can see no URL appeared last night or this morning, and that is kind of unusual as many people have posted URL of other websites recently.
Moderator’s note: Your previous posts with various links was caught in our spam filter. Often times, comments that have a lot of links trigger the filter.
I also found a video about the mating activity from this week-end: news.yahoo.com/video/us-15749625/17557605
Here is a link to the NZ website for news on Mei Xiang’s AI.
http://nationalzoo.si.edu/Animals/GiantPandas/
I know this has been asked before, but with all of the excitement of baby Yun Zi when will you celebrate Gao Gao’s birthday?
Moderator’s note: We don’t have any plans at present, as we’ve been rather busy
Regal Queen B and Yunior were just now rolling around in the saw dust. Bai seems to love the sawdust as much Yunior… at one point she had him up in the air and all you could see were 2 little black eye upside down… Queen B didn’t look too “queenly” as she was rolling around with all paws up in the air..
I guess you’re never too old for a good roll in the sawdust… 
Ms. Moderator (Debbie) would you please be so kind as to find out the time period required after an AI to verify if it was successful or not? Can they just do a blood test or does it require an Ultrasound?
Thank you
Moderator’s note: See post Bai Yun and Gao Gao.
We’ve been watching Yun Zi grow since he was born. My class loves him so much and feels as if he is part of our class family. We love you Yun Zi.
Mrs. Reid’s Class
Fresno, CA
How blessed you are to be able to cuddle Yun Zi. Maybe you will have a “take your pandafan to work” day. (lol)
Perhaps if the team puts Yun Zi’s ball in the dry pool, he might like to roll it around in there.
The way he sits on the pine cone is the way my cat used to play with toys…..pull it into the belly area and then fall over on her side to play with it.
Just signed up for Panda-fandom. Already up to 25 members!
220 doreen in virginia: I know what you mean. I signed up on FB a few days ago, and it sure opened a can of worms!
Just about everyone in my family who has a computer, and half the people I graduated high school with have already found me! I’m not saying that’s bad, but it is sure overwhelming when you’re puter-stupid!, like me. At least I found out about our next class reunion!
I predicted the AI on Mei Xiang on my post Saturday. I don’t know if it’s Mei, or if Tian is too impatient, but they just can’t seem to find the key to success.
Thanks to all of you who have posted links to pics, vids, and general info. It means a lot to all of us. I found some of Tai that I haven’t seen before. I’m not coping very well with his leaving. It’s like losing a beloved pet!
I’m a bit late for this, but to all pandaholics, zoo keepers and caretakers, and for sure the pandas, Happy New Year to one and all.
I just signed up for Panda-fandom too. 27 members! Wow, Dianne in TX and Doreen in VA I know what you mean. All of a sudden there are so many things/people going on. I hope to just concentrate on the Panda Convention.
Great idea Lucilla – Yun Zi’s birthday party for another get together.
Margaret – when you get back from San Diego be sure to let us all know how your visit with Yun Zi goes. And how your Yorkie is on your return. I’ll bet he gets plenty excited to see you again.
I wish you had it on video, and posted for us to watch!
I am a teacher and my students and I watch the baby everyday. We all laughed so hard when he reached back for the tree and fell during his debut. That is the kids favorite video to watch now. We have not been able to access the videos the last several days. I was wondering if anyone had any idea of how long this site might be down.
Thanks
Moderator’s note: We’re not having trouble viewing videos on our end. Are other readers having trouble?
Dear Moderator,
Would you please pass on to the technical people that there is no panda cam stream for a while now.
Thank you.