If you are a San Diego Zoo member, you have already received your copy of June’s ZOONOOZ magazine. Our sun bears are highlighted this month, with sun bear dad Dibu on the cover! Flip through the pages, and you will see photos of Marcella and her offspring Palu and Pagi, and watch video of them, too!
Although we miss Pagi, who is reportedly doing well in her new home at the Oakland Zoo, life goes on in our Sun Bear Forest. Marcella and Palu are back out on exhibit, and you can see them daily (see Sun Bears: Up in the Air). Palu, in particular, seems very happy to be able to climb, explore, and stretch his limbs again. He’s still a growing boy, and very active.
We haven’t yet developed a plan for weaning Palu from his mother. Certainly he is of an appropriate age to be weaned, and obviously Pagi has already moved on to a new stage of independence. However, Palu’s situation is different from his sibling in that he is not yet slated to move to another facility. If we separate him now, he would remain at the San Diego Zoo in the near term, and that presents some challenges for us.
Those of you who have visited our Zoo know that we have a very robust population of bears. We are one of the few zoos in the world that has six species of bears exhibited: pandas, polars, brown, Andean, sloth, and sun bears. Bear Canyon is pretty full, and we don’t have any open, unused, bear-friendly exhibits to move Palu to. That means that once he is separated from his mother, he would remain at Sun Bear Forest, where he would need to rotate exhibit time with Marcella.
Rotating animals on exhibit is a common practice. It allows animals to have some time out in the larger open space of the public enclosure, where they get exercise and sunshine. It allows them time in the back, where they get some privacy and closer inspection by their keepers, important for observing changes in their health status or growth pattern. It keeps incompatible animals apart, important for non-social species or aggressive individuals.
Zoo-wide, there are a number of animals that share exhibit time with others via a rotation schedule. Our aged Manchurian brown bear, Blackie, recently began rotating with the younger grizzly bears to allow the youngsters more room to roam when on exhibit and ensure old Blackie gets plenty of peace and quiet behind the scenes (see Brown Bear Changes). Our giant pandas, solitary by nature, have long rotated through our two primary exhibits to allow the public to see all of our individual animals. Not since Hua Mei was dependent upon her mother have we had enough exhibits to house all of our pandas, so rotation has become a fact of life at the panda facility.
In Palu’s case, we have an even better option than rotation: delay weaning. In choosing this option for the time being, both bears get daily exercise during their time on exhibit. They also continue to enjoy each other’s companionship under this option. We are happy to note that, unlike Marcella’s first-born son Danum, Palu is not aggressive and demanding of his mother. The dynamic between them allows us to consider this option, whereas with other individuals it may not be possible to extend this relationship.
Further, at some zoo facilities in Europe, it is common practice not to wean young sun bears from their mothers, especially females, until they are of breeding age. In those cases, the young female is even introduced to a social relationship with her father, as the three bears are housed together when their personalities permit it. Thus, there is precedent for multiple generations of related bears being housed together in this species.
We need not be concerned that Palu will attempt to breed with his mother any time soon. We expect he will not reach sexual maturity for several more years. Long before then, we will have found a new home for him and weaning will take place. Or, a new male will have moved to San Diego to breed with Marcella, necessitating the removal of Palu from the social mix. Weaning will happen some day, but for now, mother and son will continue to remain a pair on exhibit. We hope you find them as interesting to watch as we do!
Suzanne Hall is a senior research technician for the San Diego Zoo’s Institute for Conservation Research.
Here is a story. Enjoy!
Yun Zi the Spy
One day, Yun Zi was tanning while dreaming about being a spy. Yun Zi woke up, Mommy Bai smelt treats in the other room. Bai Yun tells Yun Zi “Oh I am going to go into the other room for a few minutes, continue your nap son” Yun Zi gets suspicious. He finds the keepers rake, and runs away with it. He drops it in one of the rooms, and Bai Yun yells “cubbie what are you doing in there?” Yun Zi quickly runs behind the wall. Yun Zi sees Bai Yun leave her TOP SECRET room, Yun Zi then runs into the room and finds…………TREATS!!! “AHHHHHHHHHHHHHH Yun Zi screams! “She was hiding “my” treats from ME. Yun Zi’s face turned happy. He then said “I will keep these for further inspection”. He takes his Zip bag into his STONE THRONE Secret Hideout. Bai Yun then rushes in her TOP SECRET room. Bai Yun screams “MY TREATS!!!!!!” she runs out of her TOP SECRET room. She is in pursuit of the one who took her treats. She meant business, when some one takes her treats. Yun Zi is in his STONE THRONE Secret hideout. He hears booming, ‘BOOM’ ‘BOOM’ ‘BOOM’, He peeks out from his STONE THRONE. He sees Mommy looking as angry as can be. He trys to hurry and swallow her treats. He takes a big gulp, and still has not swallowed her treats. He runs up the tree as fast as he can. He drops one down by accident on his STONE THRONE. He finally reaches the top. He then trys jumping onto, the roof. He jumps “whoo yaw” he says as he makes the huge leap. He lands successfully. He then jumps into ZZ’s Yard. She thinks he is a toy. ZZ chases Yun Zi round and round and round. Around they go, Yun Zi squeaks “ZZ ah ZZZZZZZZZZZZZ”. ZZ finally catches him. ZZ runs and drops him in a raft down on Mom’s head, by a rope. She swings him down, trying to land him hard on Mom’s head (to get him in trouble). She did not know Yun Zi was already in trouble. He flys at Mom at 30 mph. She gets a thump in the head. She grrrrs at him. ZZ is laughing as hard as she can. Bai Yun is on her laptop, at the time, receiving a letter from Daddy Gao. She continues writing flirty letters to her Gao. Yun Zi runs, while he has his chance.
Caught; Yun Zi in the Act
Yun Zi Stealing the Rake
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ritapetita/4393371089/
Yun Zi Hiding Behind Wall
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ritapetita/4389435853/
Zhen Zhen Laughing In Amazement
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ritapetita/4311792320/
How interesting. Glad to hear Pagi is doing well. It is always hard to have a “child” leave and I know she is missed greatly. Thank you for the updates. They are always well received.
Thank you, Suzanne for the article about Palu and Marcella and the weaning process. On May 25th I was able to watch and film both mother and son. They do interact very well and at the same time do not intrude upon the others ‘space’. I think the Sun Bears are as much fun to watch as the pandas
It does appear that Marcella now finds that her milk supply is less….she only appeared to have two breasts now saving/making milk. Is that because she now only has one nursing cub?
WHAT A WONDERFUL PROBLEM OF ROOM for some species, because the Keepers, Vets and Staff keep the animals so healty, their enclosures appropriate, personalities considered, and breeding techniques studied so well that they have to figure out placement before a pregnancy. A testament to great care by the San Diego Zoo….Love Grammmie
I never knew that sloths were of the bear family!! I would have thought marsupials.. don’t they have pouches for their babies?
Maybe the Columbus Zoo would like Palu? I don’t think we have any Andeans…
Moderator’s note: Sloths and sloth bears are two very different critters, although their names sound similar. Check out our Animal Bytes fact sheets for more info: Two-toed Sloth and Sloth Bear.
#1 BRITNEY Which came first the pictures or the story??? Or did they all seem to come together at once???? Great story and pictures to go with it….Love Grammmie
#5 DIANNA FROM OHIO I am so glad you asked—I thought they were one in the same too…..I need to read the articles…..Love GRammmie
#4 Grammmie:I saw Shu Yun from Lin Wei Zhou’s blog.He always get milk all over him and the ground:
His name was written on the pictures as:”蜀云”。
Suzanne, thank you for the update on the sun bears. They are so adorable! Thank you, Moderator, for the links on the sloth and the sloth bear. I had no idea there was a sloth bear. I only just found out, from watching a SDZ video, that there is such an animal as a sloth. Thank you for teaching us about bears and other animals.
I just read the update on Hope, the bear. I am grateful that Lynn and Sue, the Bear Researchers, are doing everything they know to help Hope the bear. I am grateful to all the people who are donating to help Hope the bear. By the Grace of God, Hope the bear gets the formula and food they are putting out for her and grows strong.
Suzanne, you didn’t say how Pagi was weaned. Was she gradually separated from her mother, as has been done in the Giant Panda weanings? Did she wean herself? Is it unusual to wean one twin and not the other?
Thanks Moderator!! I’ll educate myself on the 2.. I’ve learned so much about animals from reading all the posts, just not the Pandas!! And I think I mixed up Sun Bears and Adeans.. Palu the Sun Bear can come to live in Columbus.. I’m not sure we have any Sun Bears either…
Interesting post and fascinating look at the decision process. Looks like you have a fair amount of time on your hands. Assume this also means that Marcella will not have an estrus while Palu is still nursing.
PS – It’s early morning feeding time (0613) and Bai Yun is still asleep instead of pacing. She and Yun must have had an active night.
Of course, just as I posted my previous and went back to the cam, they both stirred and at least Bai is up.
Good news this morning regarding Hope, the “missing” bear cub. There was a short update on Facebook this morning that said Hope was alive and looking good.
Not sure exactly what that means–do know that they put trail cams up last night to find out who was eating the formula–maybe it was Hope and they caught her on camera?? Anyway–good news! 
The update said they would post details later.
It is exciting to know that your zoo has Sun Bears on exhibit. Hopefully more people will learn about Sun Bears and support these beautiful animals.
This evening when I checked in on Lin Ping, she jumoed on her mama and tried to wrap herself round her mama’s head. But she is rather big now she is 1 year old and slid off. I wonder whther she got the idea from another milliner, Master Gao Yun Zi. Maybe they spoke on their Approw phones.
Britney – Thanks for the fun story. The bears do endear tehmselves, don’t they?
To all Panda Fans who also Love the Sun Bears: I’ve made a movie of Palu and Marcella playing on exhibit on May 25th. They were very busy
Palu either thought falling leaves were fun…or perhaps, he thought the leaves were bugging him 
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KNWrXjgcvEA
Beautiful article on sun bears in ZOONOOZ! I was very taken by the mom walking on 2 feet, carrying baby- cradled in her arms. As a new member, I am also very impressed with the magazine in general. The SDZ is one polished organization of caring people who offer a huge variety of ways to support, bond with and protect our planet’s precious creatures.
Moderator’s note: Thank you, Kathy. I’ll pass along your kind words!
Lizzie #9,
Pagi did have a gradual cessation of nursing associated with her increased age, and some separation time from her mother in the daytime in advance of her departure. Both cubs had already become accustomed to being separated from Mom during feeding behind the scenes, a way of ensuring that Marcella didn’t inhale all of their food each morning. Palu was with Pagi throughout all of it, but he has now reverted to having most of his day with mom.
It is a bit unusual to separate one cub and not the other, I expect, though this is our first go with it.
Grammmie, they went along with the story at the same time you read it.
Like you read Yun Zi 
hiding behind the wall and go to the picture of him hiding behind the wall. 
It all puts in a sense of reality to the story. 
Lucilla, You are welcome. Yes, bears do endear themselves.
I like your stories too. 
# 10 Dianna – Ohio, Is the Columbus Zoo considering getting Pandas at some point? My sister lives there, so that would give me 2 reasons to visit and it’s closer to Montreal than any of the other zoos that currently have pandas.
Because several panda fans wrote about the Sloth Bear in the past blog, I thought I’d share video of the SDZ Sloth Bear. Moderator, I do not know the sweet Sloth Bear’s name. If you know, could you let us all know?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3tIwg-1vQMo
Moderator’s note: I’ll find out!
Oh my gosh, little Yun Zi looks absolutely adorable right now. He is laying in his wee little hammock enjoying a red cookie and looks so plump and huggable
#17 BOBBIE WOOD Great camera work, and wonderful music work to go with it….thank you.
# 20 BRITNEY The Photos certainly give great illustration to the story…..and Rita Petita gives us such great ones to choose from…our talent seems to come from a bottemless well. You, Lucilla, P Wong, Bruce in Kc, and all of the others keep us smiling and close to the Pandas as more than just animals. I was asking more about the proccess you use as you write. I can come up with a one liner now and then, but nothing like the story tellers here. I was asking more personally about if you chose the pictures after writing the story or if you get them as you go along.
# 22 BOBBIE WOOD Again a great sound with a wonderful sound….Love Grammmie
BOBBIE great sight with wonderful sound.
Grammmie, I made it up from my own imagination. I like to picture these things happening to my mom. My mom is like Bai Yun.
. Yun Zi is kind of like me. Then I was going through Rita’s photos, and I found some to go along with my story and I think it adds wildness to it. It makes it seem as though it really happend. I like it seeming as Yun Zi really got dropped on his mom. In that story I think it is like I am ZZ dropping Yun Zi on my Mom. Since my Mom LOVES Yun Zi. My mom would gladly hug and squeeze Yun Zi. Yun Zi is like my little pesky brother. 
Grammmie, Here is my story writing tip.
I think you said you have a son living with you. Picture him being a panda and have him doing silly things. And there you have a panda story. 
#21 Marie: Don’t I wish we were getting Pandas!!! I emailed that very question to Jack Hanna’s team and I was told that as much as Jack would like them here, it wasn’t going to happen anytime soon. I haven’t given up though… I’m going to keep asking and next time I’m at the zoo, I’m going to look for Jack Hanna or at least track down a bear keeper to beg…
We have polar bears now though!! They just built this awesome habitat for the 2 girls and they have snow foxes and other critters running around there. You can walk underneath their pool area and watch them under the water…
Figures that little man is now awake and about!! Time for me to go home and all I have there is dial up!!!
I was watching Lin Ping’s HiLights this evening. When she and Lin Hui are sitting together, LP looks almost as big as Mom!! But I see she is still nursing. I saw a video of Chuang and LP definitely got her pretty face and ears from Mom! The huge-ness is definitely from Dad… Dad has a big round head and he doesn’t have the pretty ears. I wonder if those ears come from Pan Pan? LH’s ears look like Bai’s…. And LP does like to dance….
Voice Over: Now presenting the latest Spring Summer Collection by Uniquely Yunnie Fashion House, we have the Panda Moms modelling.
First down the runway is Lun Lun with her basic black and white frock that is tres chic! And on her head is a delightful chapeau designed by her cubby, Xi Lan. Oh my, her hat is in fact Xi Lan curled up. Haha, what will they think of next.
And all the way from Thailand, Sawadee Ka, we have Lin Hui who is wearing a black and white chic pants with a short black jacket, nipped at the waist and with her is her beautiful daughter Lin Ping in a sweet pink ballerina tutu.
Yunnie took the opportunity to invite his half sister Hua Mei, another yummy mummy, to come and join us for this fashion extravaganza. And here she is modelling a Chinese qi bao, a floor length brocade cheong sam favoured by Chinese ladies of yester year.’
As she strides down the catwalk, we see flash bulbs popping and the music then changes to “Pandas in the Moonlight’ and at that moment the back curtains open and modelling the ultimate ball gown is the Diva herself.
‘LADDDDIES and gentlemen, put your paws together and welcome Queen Bai! Yunnie has designed a delightful chiffon pleated ensemble for his mama. It has discreet slits in the back and is great for the full figured woman.’
The crowds roars as Bai strides down the catwalk. As she nears the front, a gentleman bear in a tuxedo jumps on stage with a bouquet of roses and bamboo. It is none other than Gao Gao, the male model for Hugo Bear, Ralph Bearen and Pawin Klein. Just as he kneels and presents the flowers and treets to her, Weeta Pawtita, world famous Panda photog, moves into position to capture yet another perfect photo.
Gao Gao can be seen to mouth, “You are my one and only Pandatoria’s Angel, there is no one for me but you, honey.’
Bai blushes and accepts the bouquet. The crowds go wild as the spotlights dim. The music changes into that disco favourite, ‘Night Fever’ and the designer himself Yunnie comes running down the runway in a all white outfit ala John Travolta in SNF.
He reaches the centre of the runway and strikes the classic SNF pose with one paw extended overhead and finger pointing skywards. He then takes Lin Ping and they dance.
I did not know Jack Hanna was at a zoo. I always enjoy seeing him on shows and I enjoyed his show Jack Hanna’s Animal Adventures. (I think we are talking about the same Jack Hanna.)
The update on Hope, the bear, at bear.org is Good News! Hope, the bear, is doing very well. She found a tree with her formula, and was able to get formula and grapes. I am so Happy! I read two comments on the facebook last night, which were very touching. I think Hope, the bear, has many mommies.
I read that Sue and Lynn saw Hope and that she is well. Can a cub as young as Hope survive on her own?
I AM NOT SURE IF THEY ARE JUST PLAYING…..or if Yunior wants to try his hand—or paw again at hat making, but they are having a good time with good light to the left rear of the Stone Throne, between the branches and the soft ground. I wish I could see their faces to calculate their smiles…..Love Grammmie
I GUESS THIS MAKES THE PANDAS moon bears rather than sun bears………
Adventures of Yun Zi, the fashionista’s darling Part 2
The next day, Panda’s Bazaar, Pawue and all leading fashion magazines were carrying spreads of Yunnie’s fashion, photographed by Weeta Pawtita, modelled by Lun Lun, Lin Hui and Bai Yun. On Owpah Bearfree’s talk show, Bai Yun and Gao Gao appeared as featured guests.
‘I always knew my bowas special!’ said the proud Papa.
‘Yes, I modelled all his earlier creations like this cute cubbie hat he created. It was like in installation art piece,’ smiled Bai Yun knowingly.
Owpah asked, ‘So what’s next for Yun Zi?’
‘He is going to Paris , Beijing and Milan. AND all the model Pandas have been calling him non-stop to get on his runway shows,’ said the even prouder Papa.
‘But he has decided he will always work only with Panda Mamas as he feels his fashion works best for the full figured Panda Lady,’ purred the beautiful Bai Yun, ANd what’s more he is also asking for an exclusive deal for Weeta Pawtita. She ahs been photographing our family for 11 years. ANd Yunnie loves her dearly.’
‘Well, that’s all we have for this week! Thank you for being on my show. This Owpah Bearfree saing good night and God bless.’
As the lights went off on the tv, Bai Yun turns to Yunnie and says, ‘You make me so proud.’ ‘All our kids have turned out well. Zhennie is a world famous explorer, you never know which mountain she is going to climb or which plane she is going to somersault out off. You and I really know how to make ‘em, eh, Bai Baby?’ smiles Gao Gao.
Yunnie jumps up, ‘I know what I will design for my next collection! Clothes for the adventurous Panda Babe and I will get Zhennie, Su Lin and Lin Ping to model! YES, I am a genius! Hee Hee!’ He poses and shakes his tushy.
SMACK! ‘OOOOOUCH! MAMAMAAAAAAAAAAAA! Why did you spank me?’ yelps Yunior.
‘You were shaking your bon bon in my face. Grrrrr, next time I will chomp on that ripe tushy, hee hee. Let me guess, you were dreaming again?’
‘Yes, and guess what you were doing in my dream, Mama, guess!’ says Yunnie excitedly.
‘Dancing?…No?…Flying?….No?….What, modelling? Hee Hee, I was the reigning Miss Panda Universe. That was why Papa Gao fell for me. He says it was the fluffy cheeks and the perfect ears…Hee Hee…’
‘Mama, I wuv you just the way you are!’
Then Bai Yun grabs Yunnie and tumbles him upside down!!!
The end
# 22 Bobbie Wood: Thanks for the video! I’ve never seen a sloth bear before. Kinda looks like a dog. While I was watching your video, I came across this one and wow, totally adorable lil guy (or gal)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dj-xffwP5Ow
# 28 Dianna from Ohio: I believe it’s like a million dollars to get pandas on loan from China so perhaps that’s why the zoo cannot get them at this time. But it sounds like you have other beautiful animals. I will definitely visit when I visit my sister (no date set at this time though).
I had the most fun this morning watching Lin Ping at her naughtiest and cutest first standing on her hind legs and ripping the mural down in her enclosure. She kept picking at it and pulling down strips. I couldn’t stop laughing. After she and mom, Lin Hui were removed from the enclosure, the keeper went in to do repairs. When they returned, Lin Ping seemed to know that she had been very naughty, and she pulled out all of her cutest antics to get the keeper’s attention and he rewarded her with belly rubs and head scratches. He had to get back to work and Lin Ping turned her attention to mama, climbing all over her and standing on poor Lin Hui’s shoulders. Being the great and patient mom that she is, Lin Hui just continued to eat her bamboo, and when it got to be too much, she just moved. When I left them, Lin Ping had begun to pull at the twine that is tied on the bars and began to unravel it. This was just after she tried, without success to squeeze through the bars like she used to do. I think she wanted more belly rubs from the keeper. The other day I was fortunate enough to catch a 30 min. playtime between Bai Yun and Yun Zi on the web cam. They were having a blast together and I was enjoyed every minute of it.
THERE IS AN EXCELLENT ARTICLE ABOUT A NEW EXHIBIT—Includig Pandas, at Singapore’s home to Asia’s first river-themed park, River Safari. Use this link to get there for a look and drawings of the future.
http://www (dot) pandasliveon (dot) com/giantpandas/
enjoy….Love Grammmie
12:30 Sat..whats with the sound effects…turn it off please ….it is annoying………….. thank you .
Is anyone around today? Mom Bai looks like she’s panting pretty hard. Looked like Zhennie was too. I don’t know how hot the weather is down there today, but just a little concerned…..hope all is well in the forest…er zoo.
#31 & #35 Lucilla – wow! These last two stories are soooooo goooood!!!! Love the fashion show scenario. And how Bai woke up Yunnie from his dream – too funny! I can imagine everything as I read your stories. Now, if we can just find an illustrator, you could be in business. Thanks for sharing your talent.
DO YOU REMEMBER HOW YUN ZI HATES GETTING WET????
WELL BAI YUN has figured out how to fix that—she dunked him then dragged him through the dirt. I was first alerted to the fun when I checked in to Rita Petita’s Flikr account. You can get there quick by using http://www.flickr.com/photos/ritapetita/ Love Grammmie
I am not sure how I managed to submit the first sentance without my hand being anywhere near the mouse….but I apologize for making a mess.
Another great story, Lucilla!
And now the lovely Bai and Yuni are having a grand old time playing in the moonlight. Just when I thought I was going to sleep…
IT IS A GOOD THING I KEEP checking the panda cam…Bai Yun and Yunior have been keeping me entertained this evening wresteling and playing in the lower left area of the cam shot. Sometimes they roll out of range for a few minutes, other times they run off for a few….but they keep coming back for abuot an hour now…..I hope many of you get top enjoy them—Goodnight…Love Grammmie
JEAN CLOUD FROM #88, 3RD BLOG BACK I hope you feel comfortable enough to join in soon…there seems to be room for everybody here. I am clear across the country in the Greater San Diego area—but my daughter and her family lived there for a few years. By now you have ben treated to Lucilla’s and Britney’s wonderful stories, and an lot of facts about Panda Bears—and now Sun Bears too. I am not sure how many years the Sun Bears have been her but I don’t remember them not in the zoo since I was 15 or 16. There have been some other great storytellers here also….let us know when you want the link for Project Bamboo Pandas in Space Program.
I have an important question—Bai Yun is White Cloud, Yun Zi is Son of Cloud……where do we put the Yun in your name????? Love Grammmie
Marie # 36: Thank You for posting the link! The video of the Sloth Bear racing and running at the SDZ in June of 2009, is FANTASTIC! Gosh the people watching that day really were viewing a Show of Shows!!
I, like you, think the Sloth Bear looks like a dog/big puppy.
Dianna from Ohio, Hi, by the Grace of God, Hope can survive “on her own”. She is getting formula and food from Lynn and Sue. Lynn and Sue said that cubs can build dens for the winter just as good as mom bears can. By the Grace of God, Hope thrives and has her own cubs, in the future, and is a good momma bear.
This is Panda Annie. My computer is old and my comments will not post. I am going to get a new computer soon, but I have tried commenting on all the other computers and it didn’t work. What if it doesn’t work then? So, I thought I could make a new username and stuff and that could possibly work. I’ll just have to wait and see. I have commented for quite a while!!! I have many things to tell you so, I will of course but, just in case I am going to post this comment, see if it works and then if it DOES then I will tell you all about me seeing the pandas at the Washington D.C. Zoo! Hehehe, you shall hear about it later
YAY!!! My comment I just posted is working!! So, I now have a new username, but I am still the same old Panda Annie. Now, I am Annie Panda! Well anyway, I have a small list of panda thingies I want to share with you panda lovers! Here they are:
1. My class and I went on a trip to Washington D.C. last week!! Oh, it was just so exciting and fun- and hot! Well, I got to see Tian Tian and Mei Sheng at the Smithsonian Zoo! When I saw them, they were sleeping however, I stayed there for about 10 minutes hoping they would wake up. We had to go look at the other exhibits but, we first went to the Panda Gift Shop! Yes, how fun, right?! I got a big panda pillow (that now lives on the end of my bed at home) with 2 pandas eating bamboo. It’s like a painting and it is so peaceful and adorable. Anyway, after we went to see all of the other animals and then we went inside another gift shop for a bathroom break. I saw a t.v. in there and found there was like a live panda cam and I saw one of the pandas (not sure which one) walking around everywhere and dipping it’s feet in the water and trying to bring the bamboo into the other room. It was darling, and that panda bear seemed very smart!
2. I have found out about a panda website with the latest panda news and such.
Here is the link: pandanews (dot) org/
Enjoy!
3. Oh my, have you guys seen all of those panda photos on flickr?? Simply adorable!!! Yun Zi is such a big boy and a curious one too, huh? The picture of him sitting on Bai’s head was so cute and funny! I laughed to hard, and then there were all of these other pictures too of Yun Zi and just a couple of ZZ! Precious…
Now, I guess I’ll comment and answer on some comments. I will do it on another panda comment though. Make sure to check it out!! Wow, I missed commenting!!
Love those panda bears. Peace, Love and Pandas CIAO!
#32 Barbi(Gabrielle) – It’s the same Jack Hanna… He is the Director Emeritus at the Zoo. I actually got to meet him one day several years ago at the zoo. He’s so busy doing live appearances now that I don’t know how much time he actually gets to spend at the zoo. He really has done so much for our zoo.
#36 Marie: We had Pandas for a visit several years ago. I would imagine it takes alot of paperwork along with alot of money to get them on loan…We have one baby elephant, Beco but I’m thinking he’s nearing 2 years old by now.. Oh and Fluffy.. .this really HUGE anaconda (I think that’s what she is).. suppose to be one of the largest in captivity.
#37 Lauren: Oh I hope that episode ends up on youtue so I can see it or at least on the Hi-Lights.. I think she inherited her decorating talents from Lin Hui. From what I understand, Lin Hui took down alot of that wallpaper too…
Grammmie, I hope I did not offend you with my story writing tips. Other people may not have their family members being pandas and doing silly stuff. But I do.
I have started my own Panda museum with all my Panda artwork, stuffies. I paint pictures of Pandas and in one of my photos, I painted The Gao Throne (wait for my next story to hear about it). And I make my mom pay to come to The Giant Panda Museum. Hee Hee
I make my mom pay $5 to come to my Giant Panda museum. I add new art everyday so she can pay more money. Ha ha hee hee 
Lucilla, I like your story about Panda Fashionistas!!! Love the Cubbie hat. I want my very own Cubbie hat. Even Bai Yun sports her own Cubbie hat. I must have one.
#1 Britney: What a silly story! Those pictures are perfect, I love the one with Yun Zi “hiding” behind the wall. Haha, I like the part when it says “Bai Yun continues writing flirty letters to her Gao”
Keep writing those short stories, we love them!
#17 Bobbie Wood: I will make sure to check out that video soon! I always love the videos you post, Pagi is an adorable baby bear, isn’t she?
#35 Lucilla: That story was so cute and funny! I always enjoy your little stories. I have always wanted to write a little panda story like that, but it’s not easy. I was thinking I could try again today and post one later. Hmm.. I was thinking of having Mulan in it. What do you think? Haha, bye!
Ok, so I posted a comment just a little bit ago about this panda news website. I found out they have all of these awesome panda links for panda lovers! I know you guys will all enjoy this! So cool!!!
Here it is:
pandanews (dot) org/panda-sites
New update about Hope and Lilly. Hope is doing very well!!
They said she is healthy and strong. And is staying high in the trees when she needs to. They have a picture of her and her big tummy. That is good news. 
She is so cute. Sporting her big tummy. Yeah! 
Here is the link.
bear (dot) org/website/lily-a-hope/live-den-cam/505-830-pm-and-alls-well.html
Here is a picture of a bunch of chinese men holding pandas. It looks so fun! It’s like panda heaven. I wish I could do that!! perfectpandas (dot) com/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/pandas.jpg
Lucilla, are you sure it was a dream??!!
Panda riddle:
A Panda Bear walked into a resturant. He sat down at a table and ordered some food. When he was finished eating, he took out a gun and shot his waiter. He then left the resturant. After the police caught up with him, they asked him why he had killed the waiter. He replied, “Look me up in the dictionary.” What did the dictionary say?
Answer: The dictionary said “Black and white bear, lives in China. Eats shoots and leaves.” Get it? Haha.
Panda Jokes:
Q. What goes black, white, black, white, black, white?
A. A panda rolling down a hill.
Q. Whats black and white and red all over?
A. A sunburnt panda.
Q. Why do pandas have fur coats?
A. Because they would look bad in denim jackets.
Q. Why do pandas like old movies?
A. Because they’re in black and white.
Q. What’s black and white and goes round and round?
A. A panda stuck in a revolving door.
ALERT: Daddy Gao’s room has a giant spider on his wall!! Go Gao!!
Here is a story.
One day Daddy Gao is eating dinner with his family and his Panda Fans. Gao notices a giant spider on the wall.
He immediately goes into action to save his family. He runs to the other room and quickly changes into his camouflage pants and his navy blue tee with a giant ‘G’ on it. Daddy Gao wrestles the spider to the ground. Then Daddy Gao hauls the spider outside to a new exhibit area where the spider can reside. 
Annie Panda, you are welcome. Cool pillow! I am trying to make my room Panda themed.
P.S Bai Yun flirting with Gao is my mom flirting with my dad. 
Jean Cloud,
Hi. Grammmie’s comment motivated me to go back and read a previous blog. I just want to thank you for being a teacher for 41 years. I appreciate everyone who teaches; I appreciate nurses, too. I appreciate everyone who chooses to educate us and care for people. I know teachers do both. I appreciate all of my teachers, all their kindess and all that they taught me.
Sincerely,
Gabrielle
#49 ANNIE PANDA-PANDA ANNIE Nice to see you back…it has been a while.
#52 BRITNEY Of course I was not offended–I was the one who asked about your working process. As I said—my grown son shares a home with me….and he is quite silly sometimes….want to borrow him????? I think a Panda museum is a great idea, as long as mom doesn’t run out of $5 bills.
#54 ANNIE PANDA It looks to me like there is competition for enclossure cleanup duty to rival our own Yun Zi. Cute photo.
pandanews (dot) org/the-pandas/200908_jin-ke
ANNIE PANDA AND BRITNEY Cute jokes…did you guys know you would have a “joke off”, or was it just a happy accident?????
I HAVE BEEN LOOKING AT THE PICTURES OF Yun Zi being dragged through the dirt after first being dunked in the pond, and the only explaintions I have for Bai Yun to do that to him are A-He hates the water so badly that he has started to smell bad too….. or B-She decided it was getting hot enough to force him to take his swimming lesssons… or C-He loves to “pool surf” and he might fall off the enrichment item putting him in danger if he does not learn to love the pool like most sensible Pandas. Even though we have a lovely ocean near the zoo to help keep us cool, and bear canyon is just about the coolest place in the zoo, we do get warm during the summer….therefore a nice cool pool is a must. When Yun Zi can swim well and tires of “pool surfing” we are getting a list together of volunteers to pick him up at the zoo to take him to the beach for actual surfing. He will be covered for both Pool and Real Surfing when the Summer Pandalymics is held. Do you think he will like girls in bikinis or rinding in the car better????
Hope continues to do well on her own. Sad that she might have to learn a lot on her own without her mommy good teaching… C’est la vie…
bear (dot) org/website/lily-a-hope/live-den-cam/506-better-than-we-hoped.html
I saw Yun Zi playing on his own with one wobble, he was quite funny. When I check Rita Petita’s pictures on Flikr, I noticed that he had already played with that wobble a few days ago. I guess since he liked it so much his super nice keepers gave it back to him…
I also saw where Lucilla got her idea for the fashion show; I loved the picture of Bai Yun wearing Yun Zi as a hat!!! From what I saw on the pictures, Yun Zi may have some inclination as a vet as well, the way he is checking out his mom!!!
Gao Yun Zi – The Adventures of the Eco Warrior Part 1
‘Chief Yun Zi, the plane is fully loaded. We’re ready for take off.’
‘Great, I can’t wait,’ replies Yun Zi as he throws his large haversack into the plane, ‘Aunt Weeta, you ready? Cuz Lin Ping? Jie Jie Zhennie?’
A reporter who is hovering comes forward and catches Bai Yun and Gao Gao who are standing on the tarmac with Su Lin and some Panda friends. ‘Mr and Mrs Gao, how are you feeling now?’
‘We’re very proud that we can be part of a team that is flying off to save the environment. We know that Yun Zi is a gread cubbie and he loves nature so much. He was really angry about the oil spill and worried that his friends the birds and the fish will die off. Zhen Zhen has done her research so we hope that by spraying the area with Panda Poo Pellets, the oil will be soaked up. So we are really hopeful,’ gushed Bai Yun, the famed beautiful Panda Mama.
‘Yeah, my boy is a real go-getter. He was so upset when he heard about the oil, So he quickly called all his cousins and his siblings to see what pandas can do to help the world. Amazingly they came up with this solution in double quick time. All the pandas have been sending us their good wishes and prayers. We must not fail the world!’ added Gao Gao, his face beaming with quiet pride.
‘Yes, Papa! We won’t fail. Pandas Unite! And we have Auntie Weeta joining us to document the event. Lin Ping is going to do a documentary, she is great in front of the camera. The flight will take about 3 hours and when we arrive, we will then need to drop the pellets at certain strategic spots. There is a tropical storm approaching, please pray that we get there first otherwise, it will be mission impossible.’
‘Son, please be careful! Don’t take risks!’ begged Bai Yun anxiously. Tears were appearing in her lovely eyes. Gao handed her some bamboo tissues as she broke down in sobs.
Zhennie put her paws around her Mama and Yunnie hugged her. ‘Mama, I will do whatever is necessary. I cannot let the oil kill anymore of our animal friends,’ said Yunnie determinedly, his jaw set. Meanwhile, Lin Ping and Weeta Pawtita were hard at work recording these precious moments.
Lin Ping looked up from the view frinder to hug and say goodbye to her Mama Lin Hui and Papa Zhuang Zhuang who had come from Thailand to be with the Gaos.
‘I think we better go if we want to outrun the tropical storm. Bye Bye!’ and with that the team quickly entered the plane and strapped themselves in!
Gao Gao and Zhuang Zhuang led their wives into the air terminal, followed by their various relatives and children. The reporter catches Su Lin and asks her, ‘Is this your brother’s toughest mission?’ Su Lin answered immediately,’Of course! So much is at stake. But he is an eco-warrior and he was born to do this mission.’ The reporter continues, ‘He likes this hero business doesn’t he? What does he get out of this?’ She snaps, ‘My brother is a hero because that is how he is, a brave and concerned citizen of the world. And because he is a good and pure hearted warrior, he will succeed and we need him to. Thank you!’ and with that she strides aways to join her family.
(To be continued….)
Lucilla, thanks so very much for the stories; I especially like the fashion scenario. Our little guy has quite an imagination, doesn’t he?
Loved Rita Petita’s photos of Bai dumping and dragging Yunior. Think she’s paying him back for sitting on her head?
#59 Annie Panda: Cute!! Did you make those up?
#60 Britney: Wow.. that must have some spider! Probably the same ones I saw on Cam 6 a few days ago…
Rita Petitas pics of Yunior: Yunior looked mighty indignant being hauled around like that… I would have liked to see the video of that!! I wonder what was going through Bai’s mind?
Will Mom pandas drag their cubbies up until they’re weaned?
I saw the HK (is he Mr. P?) working with LP trying to teach her behaviors like opening her mouth on command…she pretty much was not in a learning mood…
They will need patience with that one for sure!! 
#65 Lucilla: LOVE this story… I wish Yunior could really go to LA with his panda poo pellets and save all those poor pelicans, dolphins, fish, and the poor people whose lives depend on a clean ocean.. it breaks my heart to watch the news on TV.. Maybe Yunior can dive down and put that cap on to contain all the oil!!! Go Yunnie!!!
Grammmie, You should try writing a story of your own. I would look forward to hearing your story. Maybe you can fill in the blanks of why Bai Yun dragged Yun Zi in the pool, then through the dirt. Yun Zi looks like he has no idea what is going on. Or maybe trying to look cute even if Mom is annoying him. Oh, I will get all of Mom’s $5 bills. And guess what I am going to do with a bunch of $5 bills. Maybe get hundreds of Panda stuff.
Then I will make my mom pay $9 to come to my Giant Panda Museum (Hee hee 
).
Panda Annie, I like your funny jokes
Dianna – Ohio, the one in Gao’s room was huge! Oh really, there was one in Yun Zi’s and Bai Yun’s exhibit? Maybe that is why Bai Yun dunked Yun Zi in the water, to protect him from the spider. (Bai Yun thinks spiders do not like water.)
Here is a story.
Yun Zi sees a commercial for an electric scooter. He yells while jumping up and down and runs to his dad. He says, “Can I have an electric scooter dad???” Gao says, “Yes son, you can have whatever you want”. Yun Zi squeaks with happiness! Yun Zi sees mom and screams, “I AM GETTING AN ELECTRIC SCOOTER!!!” Bai Yun wonders why he is screaming at her.
Two weeks later, Yun Zi receives his electric scooter. Dad puts it together. Yun Zi goes to get his helmet. Dad leaves the room. Bai Yun sneaks into his room.
Bai Yun thinks, “I will ride the scooter when Yun Zi is at his friend’s house.” She goes outside to the pool.
Yun Zi heads for the back door with his scooter. He turns it on and rides through the kitchen. Bai Yun remembers she forgot her beach towel. She goes to the back door and as soon as she touches the door….. Yun Zi comes flying at her at 30 mph! Bai Yun falls into the pool! He quickly goes to his friend’s house. As he is riding he is thinking, “Hee hee
now got to escape before mom gets a chance to dunk me in the pool.”
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ritapetita/4678362243/
Yun Zi dunked in the pool!
Lucilla, Wow, what a story of our Yun Zi. Touching, compelling, Wow! Now, I will have to find out what is going on with the oil spill. I wish we did have an eco warrior like Yun Zi. Your stories are impressive. I hope you will put these stories into a book. Maybe you could get permission from China to put your stories of Yun Zi and family in a book. Your eco warrior stories would probably really do a lot to help kids and others think about saving our environment.
Grammmie, I think it is the girls who are chasing Yun Zi for now. When Yun Zi gets older and becomes the panda stud muffin, we all know he will be, it will be Yun Zi chasing the panda girls!
One day, we tuned to Lin Ping tv right as Lin Ping’s mom was dragging Lin Ping across the floor and trying to sit on her, she kept raising her tail as she was trying to sit on Lin Ping. I can not figure out what was going on there. I guess Bai Yun’s pool dunking and Lin Ping mom’s behavior will go in the books as moms behaving oddly. Maybe it was time for Yun Zi to have a bath, like was speculated. Looking at the pictures, I felt compassion on Yun Zi. He looked like he did not know what was going on. I volunteer to hug Yun Zi. I am still amazed that Bai Yun used to tump Yun Zi upside down to clean him. Oh my, to be Yun Zi. He is a brave little boy.
#61 Britney: Really?! I am trying to make my room panda themed too!!! This is what I have (so far…)
11 panda stuffed animals on top of my pillow (on my bed)
A panda pillow at the end of my bed
A panda calendar hung over my bed
A panda key chain on a tac (the tac that holds my calendar on the wall)
A framed picture of Bai Yun next to my closet (I got the picture at the SDZ)
ON MY DESK:
A glass panda figure
A panda bookmark
A panda pin
A metal panda bookmark with a quote that says “What’s black and white and adored all over? ~Anonymous~”
Letter stickers that say PANDA
A panda picture
A panda bracelet
A panda bookmark
A panda glass box-thing
A panda picture
A panda magnet (from the SDZ)
2 panda earrings
4 3D panda head stickers
Panda figure (I call it Gao Gao cause it looks like him)
A picture of each panda born at the SDZ (Mei Sheng, Hua Mei, Su Lin, Zhen Zhen and Yun Zi) and Gao and Bai
Seems like a lot, but most of things are rather small. Anyway, I hope to add more to my (sort of) collection!
LOVELY STORIES GUYS….YOU SURE HAVE A TALENT YOU SHARE WITH US. Britney we each give according to our gifts…writing stories does not happen to be mine…but every once in a while I come up with an idea—it is up to the writers to flesh those things out. Sometimes I find a talent I did not know I had, but writing is not it. You guys have writing talent….if I throw out and idea that helps you find your voice for another story that is great—-go with it. I have lots of hobbies to do whenever I get away from the computer.
Now back to pool dunking……I mentioned that volunteers will be picking up Yunior from the zoo to take him to the beach to do “real surfing”. I can see him and I, paw in hand, surfboard under his other arm, in his new “baggies” not knowing where to look with all of the blonde haired, skinny, surfing babes in tiny bikinis everywhere he looks……his mind is on the ocean and the babes. He wonders if he asks one of them to lend a hand with instruction if she might say yes. He enjoyed his first ride in the car, and very much enjoyed the air conditioner. I think he wants Momma Bai to come with him next time…..it will be with another driver since the list is so long that we do not dare try for twice….not right away. Do not worry—the zoo has a list of volunteers to call if one cannot make it on their scheduled day.
I like to see that you are ambicious and thinkning ahead to larger fees for mom….she sounds a lot like Bai to me. Watch out—she might pick you up and dunk you in the bathtub….Love Grammmie
Yun and his band of panda Sadly I feel that all the pandas are unable to help in the oil spill. When one looks at at oil soaked birds your heart breaks. AS Yun Zi says”the hoomas have done it again.
JEAN CLOUD….NICE TO SEE YOU HERE AGAIN. Back in 1985 even things like diet and accomodation were not well enough known for most zoos outside of China to accomodate Pandas…….Thank goodness so much has been learned and put into use since those dark ages. Peoples hearts were in the right place—they just did not know that they did not have the knowlege to care for the bears as they need to be. I think back then most zoos were bar cages….not like the animals were housed at the San Diego Zoo. Even when I first went to the zoo here over 50 years ago I was surprised that many of the enclosures were not completely made of bars. We used grotto and moat systems for many enclosures, and that concept was built upon. Lets hope that if London has Pandas now that they housed much differently since it is 30 years later. The cruise down the Danube sounds like heaven. I am also going beack to the other blog to write you a note……since I had an important question to ask you…..Love Grammmie
Panda Annie, Yes, I am earning up money to make my room Panda themed
. I want my room totally cute. WOW! What a collection! Here is what Panda stuff I got.
2 Electrionic Pandas (One big one that laughs and giggles, and one little one that makes baby panda noises)
1 really round panda stuffie
1 Panda (I call her Ya Ya)
4 Panda beanie babies
1 small robotic panda
2 twin baby panda stuffies
2 small baby panda figurines
P.S. I also have a Shop where my mom comes and buys art from me.
The “I Love You Sweet Mommy” collection is most popular with my mom. It is a good business idea. 
I watched Bai nursing our baby, she seemed to be looking annoyed and straight ahead. It was about 7:30 your time. I recall reading that she does not like noise in her area. I assume the zoo was still open. Could people have been to loud for her? She fed him and went about eating her boo while he played. Then he climbed in the hammock and she came up and placed her head in there. He seems annoyed when she does that. It is cute though. She wants to snuggle. I think she wants a hammock they can both fit in.
Moderator, can Bai Yun see when the staff is cleaning the area? If so, does she get seem to get agitated when they pet Yun Zi? I was wondering if they ever do that when she can see them. I just love her. She is a wonderful mom.
Side note, I loved the Sloath bear! It is so cute! If I worked in a zoo I would never get anything done. I would be fired for sure!
Moderator’s note: Your question has been forwarded to the Panda Team.
Panda Annie, seriously, I used to give my art to my mom and she I liked it. It occurred to me I could make money from my artwork. My mom wants me to be a business owner in the future, so she encourages me to have a business now. I want to earn money so I can buy some stuffies and posters from the SDZ Panda Boutique. I want to buy a ZZ poster and all the Panda stuffies and figurines they have. I also want a Panda purse and so does my mom.
The title speaks for itself: “Hope is becoming a bear” bear (dot) org/website/lily-a-hope/live-den-cam/507-hope-is-becoming-a-bear-.html
With great pictures…
The Adventures of Yun Zi the Eco Warrior Part 2
As the plane neared the drop spot, YZ and ZZ huddled to go over their plans. Lin Ping started her live streaming as the families and well wishes gathered round monitors at the air terminal with their hearts in their mouths.
Our eco warriors can spot many marine creatures floundring in the ooze. ‘I hope we are not too late!’ YZ shouts above the din. He looks frustrated and angry. ‘How could they be sooooo careless and callous?’ cries ZZ, ‘BB (baby bro), we must not fail!’
‘We will hit this spot and if it works we will then go for the epicentre! We will NOT fail!’ YZ points to the map. ZZ nods, her ears flapping earnestly. She scurries down a rope ladder to check and as the pilot steadies the plane, she gives the thumbs up signal to her baby brother. He releases the first load of poo pellets.
‘Bomb’s away!’ yells ZZ in delight as the oil starts to break up.
‘YAY!’ shouts erupt from the plane and from those watching the live broadcast. As ZZ shimmies up the rope ladder into the cabin, Weeta captures her as she flashes her a V sign.
The plane then moves southwards. ‘Look!’ Lin Ping’s paw points to the east where dark clouds have appeared. ‘We have only one try at the epicentre. If we fail, we will have to wait weeks for the storms to clear before we try again!’ informs ZZ as she checks the instruments for wind speed.
Quickly, YZ goes down the rope ladder as ZZ jumps into the cargo hold to ready the largest load of poo pellets. At YZ’s signal, she releases the winch and the steel cables quickly umspool to drop their precious cargo.
‘WHOOOMP!’ the plane is whacked by the strong winds. As teh plane lists to the right, Lin Ping is thrown almost out of the plane. Weeta Pawtita ,manages to grab her hind feetsies in time and hauls her into the plane. ZZ tumbles into the cabin just in time to see YZ falling. He had lost his grip on the rope ladder.
ZZ immdeiately jumps out and slidders down the rope. ‘Grab this, BB!’ as she throws a blue doughnut at him. Her aim was true and it fell near to him. YZ had managed to grab the end of the rope ladder to slow his fall. He then jumps off and grabs the doughnut. As he clings to the doughnut the pilot flies the plane away from the storm.
‘MY BABY!’ screams Bai Yun, losing her legendary composure as she grabs Gao Gao. ‘Its alright, darl, he will be all right! Takes more than a storm to get our baby,’ murmurs Gao reassuringly even though a frown appears on his normally placid face.
‘He’s OK, YUNNIE is OK,’ yells Su Lin, ‘Yay! Baby Bro, you’re the man!’ as she dances a jig.
YZ’s grin soon fills the screen as ZZ drags her brother back into the plane and he is soon hugged by ZZ, Lin Ping and Aunty Weeta. They peer out and they shout in unison, ‘YAY! The oil is dispelling! YAY! And the storm winds are helping too! WOOO HOOO!’
When the plane returned to base, the warriors were greeted with balloons, streamers, a band and as they deplaned, President Bearick Opawmah comes up to them and gives each member a bear hug and a huge medal made of polished boo, ‘You have made America proud to be your hosts! SDZ has done the nation proud by raising two outstanding bears! We also thank Thailand for letting Lin Ping join this rescue efforts!’
The next day in the New Bear Times and in the International Bearald Tribune, photos of the rescue by Weeta Pawtita were featured as a centrespread with the headlines, ‘Pandas United Save the World!’
‘I want to thank my mama Bai Yun and my papa Gao Gao…. kaaaabumpooo!Ouch!’ as Yunnie falls out of his hammock.
‘Baby, I have told you time and time again, pandas do not stand upright unsupported. What were you thinking?’
‘Hee Hee, let me tell you my latest dweam, Mama!’
‘After I take you for a bath, you have a dirty tushy!’
‘NOOOO NOOO, Mama, that is no way to tweeat a national hewoo! Hewwp! ZZ, thow me a doughnut nowwwwww!’ yells Yunnie as Bai grabs him by the scuff of his neck.
The End
‘H
Has anyone else seen these pics of dogs (and a cat) clipped to look like other animals including a Panda chow
chicagonow(dot)com(slash)blogs(slash)steve-dale-pet-world(slash)2010(slash)06(slash)wild-clips-for-dogs(dot)html
I just checked in on the NZ Pandas.. I don’t know which one I was looking at but he/she was laying flat on his/her tummy in the grass, legs sprawled out and looking totally comfortable on a hot summer day…
Another posting about Hope… She seems to be growing up fast and doing well. I hope they get that small GPS collar for her so they can keep track of her…
I hit submit too fast. I also checked in on LP last night. HK was trying to get her to drink a pinkish liquid out of a bowl. She wasn’t drinking it which made me wonder if it’s a medicine or something? I hope she’s okay…
I found the Youtube video of LP. They carried her out to get weighed… could someone make out what her weight is now? I guess she took a little bit of the liquid but not much… I don’t know how to copy the link for the video from Youtube…
Lin Ping Daily Hi-Light#2-070610
#81 Lucilla – Wonderful story… If only it could be that easy!!
Grammmie, she is totally Bai Yun! But luckly she does not dump me in the pool
, I dump her in the pool.
I bet he will be a lil stud muffin like Mr. Gao. Go Yun Zi my lil surfer! 
Yes, I will be adding more fees for mom (maybe $20 a visit to my museum? hee hee). Yun Zi is a ladies man.
Tues 10:24 AM. I assume its Yun Zi playing with the tether ball but then again it could be Bai Yun……whom ever it is sure looks big.
Now there’s Mama Bai feeding her little superhero after hearing about his latest adventure…
Grammmie–a very cute picture you have conjured up, of you and Yun Zi at the beach, “paw in hand, surfboard under his other arm, in his new “baggies” not knowing where to look…” I can see it so clearly!
#84 & 85 Dianna – I was also watching the LP videos last night and she really wanted nothing to do with that pink liquid. One of the videos showed a keeper adding something to the bowl from a syringe; that made me think it’s some kind of medication. For what? I’m not sure. I heard a while ago that LP is prone to constipation, but who knows? I’m wondering if they can give the meds to her in a different way, like maybe soaking it up with the biscuits and giving the biscuits to LP. I, too, hope she’s okay. Also, to add a video link to your blog, just copy the link from the webpage and then paste it on your blog.
I got on the cam at around 11:38 SDZ time today and Yunnie was trying to wake up mama Bai – he wanted the milk bar. He must’ve been really thirsty because he did everything he could think of to get Bai to turn over, including trying to wedge himself between the tree and Bai. Bai finally woke and sat on the “throne” to let the prince have his drink. It was a long nursing session and Bai looked like she just wanted YZ to ‘get your drink, already!!” Anyway, it was a sweet sight! I hadn’t seen YZ nurse for a while. I also saw ZZ playing with her hanging ball. She looked like she was enjoying it.
#81 Lucilla – another great panda tale! Keep it coming, girl, you’ll only get better!
#74 Grammmie – what do you mean you’re not a writer?? You’ve just told a story on your post! And it’s a good one, too! Don’t underestimate yourself. Someone once said to me, “You don’t have to do it right, just do it!!” Amen!!
#84 & 85 Dianna – Ohio – The link for “Lin Ping Daily Hi-Light#2-070610″ is http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HJnOd5U_Mmc
Lin Ping was 37.6 kg, 82.8 lb, at 376 days old.
If I remember correctly it is not the first time that she has been sick. I think it was constipation last time, it might be that again. Except from her mother’s milk, I very rarely have seen her drinking water. She really doesn’t seem to like to do whatever she is asked!!! Besides wanting to put her paws in her medication, that’s all what she wanted to do with it… I hope they will be able to treat her successfully soon. By the way the person speaking in the video is her vet.
#92 Danielle and #91 Pandafan-North: Thanks for the LP info. Wow… 82 lbs! I don’t think SCK will be picking her up by himself anymore. Doesn’t she act lethargic in that video though? Or at least like she doesn’t feel good? She isn’t as spunky, in that video at least, as she usually is….
She was constipated once before when she ate LH’s panda cake. I remember seeing the video of the keepers and her vet giving her an enema.
The early adventures of Bai Yun. The scene: Wolong, China, 1996
Bai Yun was restless. From her perch high in the tree, she could feel the winds of change ruffling the fur on her cheeks. Her ears perked up as she listened for…what? Shh! Someone was approaching her tree from below.
“Daughter…” It was her mother, Dong Dong, calling from below.
“Come down, my daughter—I have news for you.”
Bai Yun came down from the tree, swiftly and gracefully, her fur glistening in the moonlight.
“What is it, mother? Are you well?”
“Yes, my daughter, I am well. I bring you great news. You have been chosen to travel far away, to America, to spread the word of the panda. This is a great honor. The old gypsy panda woman says that you will have two suitors and will bear many cubs, who will rise to the pinnacle of panda renown—they will advance the species, have many cubs of their own, and at least two of them will have many, many adventures that will be chronicled by the great writer Lucilla and the great photographer Weet Pawteeta.”
“Mother—the old gypsy panda told you all of this?”
“Yes, dear—I had to give her a look at the Bamboo Diamond, but it was worth it to know that you will do so well in the new world.”
“But Mother, I will be so lonely there without you and all of my friends here.”
“Only for a little while, my princess. It is your destiny. Your father and I are so proud that you, the first to be born and survive here, will travel far and be loved by so many…”
“I will make you proud of me, Mother!” said Bai Yun.
“I am already so proud,” said Dong Dong, wiping away a tear. “Oh, one other thing…don’t be disappointed when you don’t find love right away. The gypsy says that your true mate will be small in stature, but big of heart. You will have many dances in the moonlight…”
“I’d better go pack, Mother. Did the gypsy really say my true love would be short?”
“Yes, dear—short and with only one and a half ears.”
“Hmm—this isn’t sounding so good anymore, Mother. Still, if it is my destiny…” Bai Yun goes to pack.
Months later, the scene shifts to San Diego:
Bai Yun is pacing in her enclosure, faster and faster, she is confused, she is angry.
“I’ve come all this way, to fulfill my ‘destiny’—HAH! That traveling crate wasn’t very luxurious for a panda princess—I’m not a cub any more. I’m six! The bamboo was delicious, though. And the apples.
“But here I am! Princess Bai Yun has arrived! And there’s nothing to do but run around and tear up the plants! Could the old gypsy panda have been wrong? I’d better climb up the tallest tree and take in the lay of the land and try to plot my escape!”
Bai Yun sprang upon the tree with all the coiled energy in her sleek body…
“Mama, Mama—wake up! You’re trying to climb up in my hammock and you’re going to shake the tree down!”
Bai Yun came awake, with a start. “Oh my—how did I get here?”
“You were dreaming this time, Mama! Tee hee! Was I in your dream, Mama?”
“Yun Zi! The gypsy panda fortune teller foretold…”
“What’s a gypsy panda fortune teller…?” Yun Zi asked, confused by all the new words.
Bai Yun continued, “My, my—I did have the strangest dream. And I’ve worked up quite a sweat—let’s go over to the pool and cool off.”
“Uh, OK, Mom—you KNOW how much I LOVE the pool…”said Yun Zi, plotting his escape route, but intrigued with his mother’s story. This was a side of Bai Yun he had never seen before!
And of course I meant Weeta Pawteeta!
#94-95 Frances….. your story really cracked me up…. thanks.
And a big thanks to all the other bloggers for making this such an interesting, informative and enjoyable site.
#94 Frances in NYC: What a great story… I actually teared up a bit
Thanks, Frances and Lucilla. Cool stories.
Frances in NYC, Thank you for your beautiful story. That explains Yun Zi’s dip in the pool. There are so many excellent story writers on here. I am impressed.
Grammmie, I agree with pandafan-north, you are a very good story writer as well.
I just watched the LP highlights from yesterday. Awww poor baby Ping! She’s definitely not well.
Let’s hope she’s better soon! Makes me sad to see her so lifeless.
I just checked her cam. SCK is holding her on his lap, trying to give her something. It’s white. She won’t have any of it though.
Wow, “little” man has gotten so big since I saw him in January. It is hard to believe he will be a year old in two months. Palu and Pagi were so much fun to watch wrestling with each other. I am glad he has Marcella to “play” with since his sister has left him.
I guess the long play session with mom tired our baby out, he looks so cute resting his head on the rocks on top of the stone throne. What a cutie. I have not been able to see a play session for awhile, Bai sure does have energy when she wants to! They were running around and she was rolling him over, it was so sweet!
I have not seen any posts from Dennis and Lynn, I hope all is ok with you. You are both in my prayers. I am glad little Hope is doing better also. It is so sad to think of her growing up without the guidance of a mom. You can tell that Bai teaches her little guy lessons even if we “hoomas” are unsure what they are!
#81 LUCILLA That story is the best ever from you. Keep them coming—-we will let you know if and when we ever get tired of them.
#82 CELFY I have seen some, and will check out the link you sent for others later. I never know when I will get to see some new things since somethings get added to all of the time.
#83, 84, 85, 86 I am looking forward to seeing the Lin Ping Videos….and I agree with you about the stories. I had to be out of the house this morning so I did not see the second half of Yun Zi Eco Warrior until after I got home. I think it had the most suspense in it so far.it made me laugh harder too.
One of the cutest things about Pandas is how, when they relax for a nap and such it looks like their bones and joints just seem to melt………………………
#90 FRANCES IN NYC I guess the drive is too far to get you on the list of daily volunteers to take him to the beach….too bad—I am sure he would love to meet you………..
#91 PAN-FAN-NORTH I am lucky enough to catch the nursing scenes in the evening, but often I am guessing sinnnce they are behind the stone throne do I cannot always be sure. I too, have seen him dance around her looking for the milk bar—the other day he scooched under her and gave that a try.
As for my writing skills…..there are short story writers, and novel length writers, I am a “pop off a one liner” writer—-I just ususally say it…..and it is usually funny.
#92 DANIELLE, NY Lin Ping is going to be one big Panda. That graceful freeleg when she Panda Dances is going to come in handy when she wants to kick some bottom in the future. Perhaps working with Auntie Weeta will get some of that energy used to fight stupidity and greed that led to a messed up gulf will be her lot in life.
#96 FRANCES IN NYC Very good, I hope there is lots more….Bai has not even met hi Shi Shi yet.
Dear Frances in NYC,
A lovely story. Sometimes Bai does seem to be secretly smiling to herself as though she is having her secret dreams too. Maybe she has not forgotten her days as a panda royalty. Maybe there is where Yun Zi gets his dreamy personality…..hahaha our pandas do inspire dont they?
Peace,
Lucilla
For those interested, I added some new LP captures here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/greeneyes73/
Grammmie, Great story idea! Thank you for the story idea.
Here is a story.
Yun Zi’s Beach Adventure
Yun Zi: Thank you for taking me to surf.
Bai Yun: How about a little huggy, my buggy! :O
Bai Yun: Okay my baby boo!!
Bai Yun: Kissy kissy! :O I love you baby boo!
Yun Zi: NOT NOW mom!!!!
Yun Zi: rrrr grrr NO!
Bai Yun: Got to stay hydrated, milk bar time!!!
Yun Zi: Not now. RRRRR I am going surfing NOW!!! BYE!
Meanwhile, the girls are checking out Yun Zi. Yun Zi tries to impress the girls and acts like he is not with his mom. Bai Yun goes to tan. Yun Zi yells, “hey girls!!!”, while he is surfing.
Bai Yun yells from the beach, “Yun Zi it is snacky time”. Yun Zi totally embarrassed, pretends like he does not know his mom. Bai Yun keeps yelling, thinking he did not hear her, “Yun Zi snack time, got to stay hydrated”.
Yun Zi an accomplished surfer, after all his practice in the pool, sees all the girls checking him out. “Wow, that foam enrichment toy really came in handy, now I am even more popular with the girls than I already was,” Yun Zi thinks.
Yun Zi, done with his surfing hands out his phone number to a few of the girls.
Here comes mom. “Oh”, Yun Zi thinks, “I got to hurry before mom gets here and embarrasses me!” Bai Yun quickly approaches Yun Zi and hugs him and kisses him in front of all the girls. :O Bai Yun says,”Oh, I am so proud of you, you are an expert surfer. I will have to thank all the kind people who gave you that enrichment toy. You are ready for the Panda Olympics. Hopefully, your big brother Mei Sheng will be able to join in the Olympics with you and your sisters. Now, hurry son, Daddy Gao is barbecuing some yams, bamboo and apples for dinner. Did you meet any nice girls?”
“Yes, mommy,” Yun Zi says, as they hop into the car. “I meet a pretty brunette at the beach. I found my true love.”
I FORGOT TO TELL YOU that there are some new beauty shots of Su Lin on Rita Petita’s Flikr page…….so you may want to slide on over to it and get a good look at our special girl. I loved her reaction to the reproter in the second half of the Yun Zi Eco Warrior story today. Sometimes reporters ask very obvious, but stupid questions, and Su did not let the one at the airport get away with it today. GO SU ! ! ! ! ! Love Grammmie and here is the link…….
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ritapetita/
Well, Hope was no show today but Lily has a mate!! That was quick… I guess no hope that mother and cub will get back together. Hope will have to fence for herself with the help of her human friends… www(dot)bear(dot)org/website/lily-a-hope/live-den-cam/508-lily-has-a-mate-.html
On the panda front, Xi Lan is eating like an adult (see latest panda cub update on the Atlanta Zoo’s website) but he is still sleeping like a baby on the top of the hammock structure… So cute…
While I was searching for info on Lin Ping sickness, I did not find anything, I came across information of a wild panda sleeping high up in a tree and being observed by villagers.
pandanews(dot)org/news/while-wild-pandas-dream
I also came across an update on Mei Lan. After loosing weight when she arrived in Chengdu, she has regain it and put on additional weight. According to her keeper, Mei Lan is less playful than other pandas of her age, but she has been well brought up and seems to have good table manners!!!
pandanews(dot)org/news/update-on-mei-lan
That description of Mei Lan is consistent with the panda update from last Friday on the Atlanta Zoo’s website, in which Mei Lan and Xi Lan are compared…
#1 Britney-your story…sounds like you were smoking something when you conjured this up, but so cute! Thanks for the beary wild entertainment = )
Most of my work day was crummy, but when I switched over to Little Cloud and Momma, it sure did cheer me up. That little cutie, snuggled his way into Momma’s lap and happily nursed for a very long time. Momma just patiently sitting there, fondly looking down at her bundle of lovely black and white fluff….I always start taking screen shots and end up taking a hundred, every single move that Little Cloud makes is cuter than the next.
it’s so nice to have a safe place to go and hide from the chaos of the office.
#105 Marie: Thanks for the link to LP’s pics. I didn’t know Lin Hui danced around the column like LP!! Add dancing to the list of things LP inherited from Mom… I noticed in some of the pictures of them standing, that LP is getting to be almost as tall as Mom… I’m so glad that LP only inherited her size from Daddy Chuang and not his very round head and ears…
I saw the latest post on Hope. The picture just mad me so sad. She is so small. But she does seem to be doing well…
#108 Danielle – I read somewhere on the ZA blog that Mei Lan takes after Dad and Xi Lan takes after Mom when eating. I guess Dad eats very deliberately which slows down the training using food as rewards..
Mom sucks down her food..
When I checked on Yunnie yesterday, he was having a feetsie party in his hammock. I haven’t seen him do that in a long while… 1 year old in a couple months… wow..
Check out the Polar Bear Snow Sculpture video. It’s really cute. But I think the Bai/Gao family need snow!!
Grammmie: Cute pictures of Su Lin. My favorite is the one where the tip of her tongue is sticking out.
Now, you have me concerned about Lin Ping. By the Grace of God, Lin Ping is feeling better and back to her normal rambunctious self.
#97 DIANNA FROM OHIO You were not alone. And I think maybe we had company.
#99 TEXAS BARBI (GABRIELLE) How about if I get to be the critic and tell everybody how wonderfull their stories are. If I can throw out an idea now and then I am glad to see it turn into a story. I get short glimpses of things to come, but whole stories are beyond me…but thank you for thinking I could.
#102 LINDA LUVS PANDAS It is sad that Hope has to learn to be a bear all by herself. Her “Hoomans” seem to be the best ones for her to pick…they will do everything they can to let Hope lead a “real bear’s” life.
#104 LUCILLA We all thought those “secret smiles” were for Gao Gao, but I guess it could be for the old royaltiy. I can hardly wait for her meeting Shi Shi, and then her first “cubette”. Now we will get to know just how pregnancy felt for her, along with labor and the sweet little pink surprise at the end. I have a feeling that when Gao Gao arrives Bells will ring, stars will fall, and the world will hold it’s breath to see if her first son is on his way.. I say we make FRANCES IN NYC stay chained to her computer, and we send in food and such until we know for sure she will keep producing stories, are you in ?????
#105 MARIE Thank yo for the Lin Ping photot group…..I was astounded to see her half way on the slide….without being on a Keeper’s lap for the ride.
#106 BRITNEY Are we going to get to hear more about the brunette??? I am not sure Prince Fluffy-Butt is mature enough to recognize his “true love”…but in some areas he seems to be growing up faster than others.
#110 & 111 DIANNA – OHIO I just love Rita Petiat’s Flikr photos…she does a wonderful job, and does it with love. Did you know that she vists the Pandas in the SDZoo every weekend unless something urgent makes staying away the only thing she can do. She stubornly waits for the best photos. Then there are holidays, and days off…Weeta Pawtita will try to be there. We think she speaks fluent Pandaese, therefore can get the Pandas to pose just right.
We may get some more months of him having “feetsie parties”…….I read somewhere that they all do it and keep it up for quite a ote of his first year. Somebody noticed that he likes to “feetsie party” whenever he is getting ready to sleep.
I respond well the the little pink tounges too. Whom do you suppose taught them that we will get a photo of them if they have their toungue out a bit???????
Yes, Lucilla #104–when I see Yun Zi (or Miss ZZ as a baby) drag a giant branch of boo up to their hammocks or read about their dreams via your stories, I just know they come by their big ambitions and big dreams honestly. Bai is panda royalty of a sort and Gao Gao is an international panda man of mystery (What DID happen to his ear? What IS the secret of his success with Lady Bai?) And Bai seems to have such reserves of energy and playfulness with her cubs–each of them so different–I just feel that she has hidden depths.
The pandas totally inspire! I look forward to more of Yun Zi’s escapades, Gao Gao’s interviews with Mr. Tourist, Zhennie’s great adventures (I just KNOW she’s going to have them), and Su Lin’s letters from her new home (I think she’s lost in dreamland of panda princes and exotic adventures now).
Thank goodness we have pandacam, everyones’ stories, Weeta Pawteeta–and where has DoxieMom been recently?
Have a wonderful panda day!
Dianna – Ohio, Hi, Please do not worry about Hope, the bear. She is doing very well. Lynn and Sue said,”Hope is doing way more than we would have thought for her age”, on the June 7th update. In the same update, Lynn and Sue said, “Hope is getting stronger each day and is acting like a very independent, busy bear… It’s hard to hold that bear down. Her weight is probably comparable to cubs with their mothers at this point.” As for me, I am very confident that Hope, will grow up and be a healthy, happy bear. Hope, the bear, has lots of mommies and Sue being foremost. I am so impressed with Sue. Sue is going through a lot to help Hope, the bear. By the Grace of God, Hope, the bear, lives very long and very strong and is protected forever.
# 113 Grammmie: That was momma Lin Hui on the slide.
Kat Wilson, no I don’t smoke anything. I just use my imagination to write stories.
Grammmie, I am the beautiful brunette Yun Zi is crushing on.
But you can be the other beautiful brunette Yun Zi is crushing on too. 
I think there are lots of beautiful ladies crushing on Yun Zi. 
P.S My mom crushs on Mei Sheng. 
Grammmie, Thank you for the photo links. Sue looks so beautiful. I see her saying “ha ha baby brother people think I am beautiful” in the photo with her sticking her tongue out. :p
Now — don’t everyone get jealous — but if you haven’t checked out the Polar Cam — you really need to. They upgraded the camera — and the pictures are incredible. There is also a really cute new video of their snow day and can’t be missed — it is so cute.
Moderator’s note: Here are the links to Polar Cam and the new polar bear video.
I’ve been checking up on Bai Yun and Yun Zi off and on all day whenever I’ve had a chance, and I haven’t seen the little guy anywhere. Just saw Bai Yun sleeping on her throne, but no sign of Yun Zi. Dianna – Ohio, I agree that Lin Ping seems out of sorts. Checking in on her today, Lin Hui seemed to be doing everything she could to entice LP to play, but LP just wanted to lay down. You could tell that her little heart just wasn’t in it. She was constipated back in January, I believe, and I had read the translated notes on her condition, at that time. Something definitely was lost in translation, as it was much more graphic than it needed to be about giving her an enema, but it was hysterical reading it. I hope that she’s feeling better tomorrow, and I hope that the next time I check in on little Yun Zi he is being his adorable little self
Ack! That giant spider is back in Gao Gao’s bedroom. Gao, of course, is not afraid, but it looks pretty spooky to me… Perhaps Yun Zi should come to the rescue?
Yikes!!! Someone PLEASE clean Gao Gao’s camera lens!! There’s a spider on there and he looks like he’s spying on Gao, while he eats his boo!!
Yeah, the spider is a little distracting, but after all this is a zoo… Gotta love our little eight-legged friends too!
Let’s hope it will find another spot to set up camp!
Look at that large spider in Gao Gao’s room. Is it real or fake? It looks real to me and it does not bother Gao Gao just so long as he has his bamboo he is one happy Panda Dad. By the way Father’s day is coming up so Happy Father’s Day Gao Gao.
115-Barbi(Gabrielle) Thanks for the kind words… You are right.. she does have 2 very caring people looking out for her and would intervene if they felt it was necessary…
There are a couple new pictures of Yun Zi in the photo gallery playing with his enrichments. He is such a cutie-patootie…
Oh I forgot… also check in on the WAP videos. They have one of the baby elephant born May 12. So tiny and cute!!
Moderator’s note: Here’s the link…
KAM1, He is spying on Gao.
They need a spider blog so the spider will not try to hog the spotlight. 
Happy fathers Day Gao Gao!!!!
#124 Karen, I saw that spider, also, and kind of freaked out today over it-the legs were way too out there. With the cam running and the Gao being tended to, I thought, hum… should I call the zoo? On another note, the public, I don’t think, is paying to see your tushy, Yunny. Up on the throne, looking like the middle stone this afternoon at 5:00, when at 2:00 am your time this morning you were making the rounds and rounds and rounds…while your mom munched and munched and munched. Have you ever thought of donning a cape to add even more theater to what is obviously a well scripted comedy under a cloak of partial darkness?
‘Hey, son, make sure you keep your focus!’ instructs Papa Gao as he straps Yun Zi into the sleek auto, ‘we Indi 500 racers take safety seriously!’
‘Yes, Papa!’ says Yunior quietly as he zips up his snazzy red suit with black zig zag lines. As he slips into his seat next to Papa, he sneeks a peek at the bikini Panda babes aurrounding the race track. Gao Gao sees where his eyes are straying and he grins, ‘That’s my boy! Soon soon, you will find your own lady friend!’
‘Hee Hee, one as pretty as Angelina Pawlie?’ and Yunnie jumps into the hot red Ferrari.
Gao Gao gets in and then they are off. Surely and steadily, Gao steers the speed machine round the track. Yunnie scrreams with delight.
‘WOW! This is awesome, Papa! as the car slows down for a tire change. In a split second, they are off again. ‘Papa, you are sooo good!’
As they were changing, Gao tells his son, ‘Remember this is our secret! Mama will have a fit if she knew I took you racing!’ ‘Hee Hee, sure! Papa, were you are racer?’
‘I was one of the best till I had my accident! I was in the Beijing F1 and as I was rounding a sharp curve I crashed. That is why I lost part of my ear.’
‘WOW! You the man, Papa!’ as Yunnie high sixed his Papa, ‘You are soooo brave!’
‘Well, it was a good way to meet babes, but dont tell your Mama that either! Hee Hee!’
‘I won’t. Panda babes are cute but I would rather have a red car!’
‘That is because you are still young!’
‘Papa, can we go surfing next week?’
‘Sure, if Mama has no plans…’
Later, Gao Gao brings Yunnie to have some boo burgers at Panda King. ‘Papa, can I have a yam milk shake too?’ begs Yunnie. Gao nods and Yunnie zips off to get some. The door slides open and in walks Bai Yun with Su Lin and Zhen Zhen.
‘How are my ladies?’ grins Gao Gao. ‘Good!’ replies Bai as she plants a kiss on his cheek, ‘we have had a good day at the sales at Beardof Goodman as well as Pawcy! And how are the men?’
‘Great! We went to the park and played pawball, then took a ride around the pond, kid’s stuff!’
‘Yeah, Mama, we had a fun time in the park, hee hee!’ as Yunnie winks at Papa Gao.
The End
PALS AND GALS, FANS WITH TANS, AND PANDA BEAR LOVERS EVERYWHERE………I just checked in on another blog to find that the Tai Shan’s web cam promise has come to fruition. Here is a link to the blog where I found it, just remove all spaces and (dot) replace with a period to make the link work——-Happy Watching to everyone….Love Grammmie
http://www (dot) pandasliveon (dot) com/giantpandas/
I just read the full post—it is not quite ready yet, but look into it so you will be ready for them when they are ready for you….Love Grammmie
Hello panda lovers,
Here is a cute-as-can-be capture of the Prince YZ, taken on May 19, 2010, while he was enjoying a beautiful day at SDZ and having his nibblies!! Then one of the keepers puts some bamboo beside him which diverts his attention from the snackies. You can also hear the narrator explaining what’s happening to the fans who were lucky enough to be there watching. Enjoy!!
http://www(dot)facebook(dot)com/photo(dot)php?pid=4383031&id=592645919#!/?ref=home
Ohio will be represented at the Black/White Overnight!!! Tuesday there were only 5 spots left and I grabbed 2!! Yeah!! I bought my airfare last night and I’m hoping that I can get information from Liana about hotel rooms…. My boss approved my vacations days off this morning.. so it’s coming together
Can’t wait to see the Bai/Gao family!!!
P.S. I didn’t get a chance to check in on LP last night… was she any better?
What a adorable little baby lellyphant. My two fav animals in the world are pandas and elephants. The social structures are so different. Saw a photo of Yunior getting meds in his bucket, with a adorable little smudge on his nose. What kind of meds is he getting, I know he is done with his distemper shots, they were ouchy for him.
Moderator’s note: Your question has been forwarded to the Panda Team.
Happy Father’s Day to a lovely Papa Gao Gao!
Lucilla #129–thanks for explaining how Gao Gao lost his ear. But is that the real story–perhaps the truth was too racy to tell Yunnie at such a young age? And Gao Gao better watch out–Zhennie will start pestering him for her own red convertible soon. Love the high sixes!!!
There is some beautiful footage of Zhennie on the pandacam now. Thank you camera operators! She’s chomping on her boo. Great close ups.
# 133 Dianna – I checked on LP last night and she seems better. I have some great captures that I will post on my Flickr page when I get home. She and SCK were adorable together. She was also hanging upside down on her rope ladder, acting funny. I had some good chuckles. SCK was trying to train her to give him her paw. It took a few tries, but she’s starting to get it. He was also rubbing her tummy while washing her and that seemed to help whatever pain she was in because she relaxed trememdously while he did that. He’s very good to her. And cute.
Marie, I am glad LP is doing better. How sweet.
New Hope Update. Sue is spending time bonding with Hope when Sue feeds her in the mornings and evenings. During the day, Hope likes to break the logs open and eat the ants inside the log.
http://www.bear(dot) org/website/lily-a-hope/live-den-cam/509-hope-is-spunkier-than-we-thought-(dot)html
“Oh Lord! Won’t cha buy me a ticket to San Diego”
Hi everyone…this is my first comment in a loonng time. I am finally feeling better and wanted to say “Hi” to all my panda family. I was not able to be on the puter for the longest time and yes..I admit it…I was LURKING in the background. Well, no more. I just wish I could visit and stay overnight with the Panda’s. Oh..and thank you Doxie for all your videos…they have kept me current on all the antics of our panda family. Hello to everyone else too….Thanks for the goodwill and prayers you have sent me over these past 9 months. I am back…..black and white’s and fluffybuts, and Mr. YunZi, I am back to my viewing pleasure almost 100%. Thanks again to everyone and let the games begin!
Hello everyone….
I haven’t been on the blog for a long time, but wanted to say that I did sign up for the overnight at the zoo in August and am so looking forward to seeing those sweeties again! Also, a group of us from Northern CA are going to the Oakland Zoo to see Pagi in July!!! I love those bears. Where is everyone getting the updates on Lily?
The Yun Zi Acting Right Collection
Yun Zi
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ritapetita/4686756321/
Yun Zi Hugs Mom
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ritapetita/4664846867/
Yun Zi saying “Nice plantie nice plant”
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ritapetita/4660168170/in/photostream/
Yun Zi takes a break from pestering mom
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ritapetita/4656151345/
Yun Zi says; “I love you Mommy”
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ritapetita/4631718247/
Yun Zi says “I luvvy the treats”
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ritapetita/4578013169/
I am so glad that the grounds keepers DIDN’T remove the tree that Su Lin pushed over earlier this year, as she is sleeping in it right now. She is draped over one of the limbs and is just so relaxed. I grabbed some postcards.
Grammmie, here is alternate ending to Yun Zi’s Beach Adventure.
Yun Zi runs at mom with his surfboard to tell her about all the pretty girls he sees at the beach. Yun Zi turns back to wave at the girls, his surfboard knocks mom into the water. Mom is wearing her brand new sundress and now she is completely soaked.
The girls are watching and mom is soaked. How to get out of this situation? Since Yun Zi does not have the candy bar that promises to help people escape an awkward situation, Yun Zi swims off to sea as fast as he can. Mom swims after him. Mom catches him. She swims cubbie back to shore.
Yun Zi is embarrassed at the scene he has made.
Yun Zi, hoping to save his changes with the girls, blows kisses to them, as he gets in the car. Mom drives home soaking wet. She has not planned on getting soaked. She planned on getting a perfect tan, while Yun Zi surfs.
Now, mom is wondering if the Panda Paparazzi got pictures of the incident. Mom does not like to appear in pictures when her hair and makeup are not perfect. Mom thinks, “Those panda paparazzi!”
Janan Huntsberry, At www(dot)bear(dot)org. Here is the link for the Hope & Lily updates.
www(dot)bear(dot)org/website/lily-a-hope/research-updates(dot)html
Yun Zi’s Beach Adventure continued
Mom, Bai Yun, is not used to being photographed when she is not looking perfect. Bai Yun thinks to herself, “ Normally, the photographers capture pictures of my beautiful panda smile, my glistening fur, my perfectly blushed cheeks.” Bai Yun quickly calls Daddy Gao. She speaks into the phone, “Oh my Gao, the panda paparazzi are taking photos of me when Yun Zi dumped me into the ocean.
My Gao hurry and handle these pesky paparazzi.”
Daddy Gao hangs up the phone. Daddy Gao enraged at the pesky panda paparazzi jumps in his black HumV with white accents. When Daddy Gao arrives at the beach, the panda paparazzi run screaming as Daddy Gao begins chasing them down the beach. At this point, Daddy Gao looks like a panda hulk and the crowds are watching in amazement, while Daddy Gao defends his beautiful Bai Yun.
Daddy Gao gets those pesky panda paparazzi and sticks them through several donut enrichment items and sets them afloat in the ocean.
Bai Yun races to her Gao and hugs and kisses him. “Gao you are my hero”, Bai Yun says. “No one will ever see pictures of me looking anything but perfect. “ Yes, my darling Bai Yun, you are my perfect panda girl”, Daddy Gao says. Bai Yun and Daddy Gao drive off into the cool night in their black Hum V with white accents, as Yun Zi tries to capitalize on Daddy Gao’s Stud Muffin performance. Yun Zi collects phone numbers from all the girls. Yun Zi thinks to himself, “I can’t do anything but win with the girls no matter what I get myself into”. 
Britney #144–Although Bai Yun does prefer to be styled for pictures, she has also spent considerable time making the most of her innate Bai Yun beauty, and has also spent quite a bit of time practicing her Ursula Andress/Halle Berry rising-out-of-the-sea-and- looking-beautiful moment for her very own 007, the dashing Mr. Gao Gao–so I’m sure that even the paparazzi could not manage a less-than-perfect picture of Bai.
Have my fought way back from a “minor stoke” – had problems with my speech & also typing emails -but also could spell when I wrote I out – -but typing was was no no way – still had to still have to do spelling (;)
Widget, I am glad you are well and back to panda watching.
Dennis and Lynn, I hope all is well.
New Lin Ping captures: http://www.flickr.com/photos/greeneyes73/sets/72157624124431555/
I’m glad Hope is doing better and bonding with Sue. Ants… how tasty. LOL. I can’t imagine they’re very filling though.
I do comments again.
Lin Ping is doing well. The 2 injectted medications were Rabie and dog Measles Vaccines and oral medication was antihelminthics, which Panda who is 1 year and above must receive all vaccines.
I have been in Japan and visited 6 Pandas in the Adventure World, Wakayama.
The link in Meihin and eihin’ cute pictures.
www(dot)youtube9(dot)com/watch?v=OC8_Ey93GBI
Just read the update on Hope and Lilly. Hope got some cherries the other day, which she loved. I am new to the bear.org updates and site. I read an amazing thing in this latest update. Lynn and Sue said that some people are buying them, ” bullet proof vests for walking with bears in hunting season come September”. Oh my goodness. I am astounded with how brave these two researchers are. They have my complete respect for being so brave and kind. I don’t understand what kind of hunting goes on in September, where they are. I am definitely keeping them and the bears in my prayers, especially during the winter. I would like to know what kind of hunting they are talking about. People do not hunt bears, Right? By the Grace of God, people do NOT hunt bears. I adore bears, they are so beautiful. My best advice for Lynn and Sue when walking with the bears during hunting season, wear bright colors (I suggest hot pink, so people know they are not wildlife). I don’t understand hunting, it is not macho or manly, as even girls can do it. Macho is when a person puts themselves in harms way to protect another individual or an animal. In my book, Lynn and Sue are as brave as anyone who puts themselves in harms way to protect our country. I honor them for their courage in helping the black bears.
#129 LUCILLA Thank you so much for having Daddy Gao start Prince Fluffy-Butt’s driving lessons, as a mother I can tell you that we worry so much more if we are the ones that have to do it. I know not because I taught any of my kids to drive, but because I was my own mother’s chief teacher.
#144 AND 145 BRITNEY Thank you for the other ending too…it is fun…..especially the candy bar. As for Bai–the one thing she always has is her ears, there are none as perfect as hers, unless you buy them at Disneyland. She is right to worry aboutt he Pandarrazzi—they can be quite brutal when it comes to wanting our heros to be perfect……but as long as she those perfect ears she is THE QUEEN. If she plans to keep going to the beach with Yunior she is going to get sand in her shoes, that is just the way it is. She could just drop off the volunteer paw holder and baby, and park a short way down the beach to await their return.
Thank you for link for the Lily/Hope cam, now I can catch up on things there…..Love Grammmie
Good to have you back Widget!
Poor mommy gets no rest. At 1:45 am the Yunster steps it up a notch. Perched on the cut tree trunk- upper right, attempts to give a combination head massage and ear adjustment to poor Bai down below. Not stopping there, he leaps to the ground and begins to engage Bai in a well executed paw to paw exchange. Always on offense, it is becoming apparent that Yunny Balboa is not giving in to counting sheep or giving mom a minute of sleep.
To the Moderator,
I thought these blogs were supposed to stay on subject, I wish you people would go to your own personal E-mails or Facebook pages to post ridiculous comments that don’t have anything to do with this blog.
Moderator’s note: Some of our blog readers have fun sharing their passion for bears in different ways.
Suzanne, thanks again for a wonderful report on these magnificent bears. The weaning (or not), along with the European zoo blurb about how these bears are housed is interesting. Glad Pagi is adjusting to her new digs and I wish Philly Zoo had the facilities for them, and we could house Palu! I’d love to be able to visit Sun Bears regularly ! !
Thank you for camera time with Yun Zi high up in the tree. He looks so beautiful up there.
I was surprised to read that Lynn and Sue, the bear researchers, will be wearing bullet proof vests to go out with the bears in September. Our troops wear bullet proof vests and law enforcement wear bullet proof vests. It makes me think what it is like out there for wildlife. Now, I got a bee in my bonnet about hunting. I probably did not express accurately my disdain for hunting. I think hunting is cowardly and it makes a man very small in my eyes, if you know what I mean. I like boxing, boxing is a good sport, because the opponents are equally matched. Not until people arm wildlife and train them how to defend themselves, will hunting be a sport. Until that time, it just something else, very cowardly.
151 Pandafan from Thailand: Thank you so much for the information on LP. I’m so glad to hear it’s just preventative medicine and not because she was sick. I get frustrated because I don’t know Thai and can’t figure out what the keepers are saying. We in the USA care very much for Lin Ping, Lin Hui and Chuang.
Maureen in Stanwood, Mi, I am grateful that you are able to get back to health. Even if you do not feel your typing is perfect, it is still nice to know how the Panda Fans are doing, and I am still happy for your comment.
Pandafanclub from Thailand, thank you for the information on the medications Lin Ping was taking. It is good to hear from you. Lin Ping is very beautiful. I adore Lin Ping. Wow! It is so good that you got to see 6 pandas in Japan!
joe in maryland, Hey, I can only speak for myself, but I don”t facebook, as I do not care to talk to stangers, not in public or on the internet. I do not walk up to a stranger on the street and start sharing my life, so I do not do it on facebook either. However, on this SDZ panda blog, there is a nice mix of ladies, kids and gentlemen who I care to communicate with. We share a same interest in the pandas, bears, and wildlife. I am getting to know some very nice people on this blog. When we get to visit, SDZ, by the Grace of God, maybe we will meet some of our fellow Panda Fans at the Zoo. There is a really nice mix of ladies on here, expecially. I feel grateful to be able to communicate with very nice people about subjects we care about. It is kinda like weed out. You got everybody on facebook, but here you have a select group of really nice people who happen to be Panda Fans, Bear Fans and Animal Fans.
Dear Moderator and Panda Team: I would like to thank you for having this great blog. I’ve visited other zoo blogs and the SDZ is the best. You frequently keep us informed (I know we always ask for more) on all types of bears, provide us with videos and pictures and educate us. You allow us to stray off the subjects of bears once in a while. I’m a panda newbie but I’ve come to care about our hooman “Panda Family” and events in their lives. So a big THANK YOU to all of you.
P.S. Moderator Will you be visiting us at the Black and White Overnight?
Moderator’s note: No, but we’ll be thinking of you all
a Moderator’s note from a previous blog several months ago, stated that comments were supposed to stay on subject. These blogs should not be used for personal messages.
Pandafanclub from Thailand, thanks for the info on LP. We are happy to hear she is OK. I adore that girl!
Texas babri # 160, Well said!
Grammmie, Yes that would be a better plan. Bai Yun could be home with her Gao and they can relax while Yun Zi surfs and impresses the girls at the beach. I am sure Bai Yun would see her Yunior come home with papers stacked up in his paws (the girls cell phone numbers) while he is running to his room to call the girls. Yun Zi is popular with the girls. That would mean no embarrassment for Bai Yun or Yun Zi. Bai Yun would not be there to hug and kissy him, and since Bai Yun is not there she would not be dunked into the water and have PPP (Pesky Panda Paparazzi) messing with her.
Pandafanclub from Thailand, Thank you for the information on sweet little Lin Ping. Glad she is doing better. Six Pandas WOW!!!
Frances in NYC, I bet if Bai Yun was just modeling while walking out of the water, Yun Zi would come by and dunk her in the water, and Mr. Gao would have to go chasing the panda paparazzi again. More paparazzi afloat in the ocean.
Texas Barbi (Gabrielle), Hunting in September???
That is my Birthday Month!!! 
NO HUNTING, NO STORMS, NO HURRICANES, NO OIL SPILLS, NO EARTHQUAKES in my Birthday Month!!!! 
Just my Birthday and many presents. 
Lucilla, Great story. Daddy Gao teaching Yun Zi about girls.
I am sure right after Gao gets out of the car Yun Zi will go for another ride, while he throws out his papers with his phone numbers at the girls. 
I am sure ZZ will sneak a ride in his convertible.
About the spider, where did the spider go? Did people clean Gao’s room and take out the spider? Did they squish it? I hope not, it added wildness to Gao’s room and made Gao’s room look like it was being invaded by spiders
. With it crawling on the camera, it made it look like it was on the wall and drinking Gao’s water. 
Joe in Maryland, God bless you. I am going shopping now. Have a good day everybody! Thank you Moderator, for your extreme patience and kindness with all of our silliness. I am enjoying life and the panda blog and crew make life even more interesting and fun! Somebody hug Yun Zi for me.
A wonderful article was written by Suzanne Hall. After very few acknowledgments and kind words about “Sun Bears : Weaning Options” this board once again became unreadable like many of the previous ones. You’re right that i don’t have to read what you write. It was fun and enjoyable at first …I don’t know why the experts spend time writing and teaching…..just start a new blog …no research needed….just Blog13
Guys, please let’s be adults. There are posts that intrigue me a lot; there are others I always skip over. My choice. This blog has taught me a lot about pandas and other critters as well, not to mention human nature.
Have a nice day and blog on!!
#166
i rarely ever comment just read this blog ,but enjoy it very much and all articles are commented on by everyone who blogs on here but maybe you .asa they go on for days til the next article the comments do disappear somewhat . read all before you comment
This blog over the years going back to Hua Mei has provided us with such wonderful information. I would perhaps not be as harsh as Joe in Maryland but he does have a point that some of this content is just personal emails from the same people several times a day. I guess Mary in Brooklyn is right also in that we know which posts to just skip over and we can pick out the content that is informative. I’m sure one thing we all agree on is that all of us love these pandas. Have a great weekend everyone.
Mary from Brooklyn #167 – Ditto from me – Enjoy all!!
It’s been awhile since I’ve blogged, but my heart will always be with these panda bears…..I miss them so much since my last trip to San Diego…seems like eons ago, but only a month or so…LOL…:) I’m watching YunZi right now on a close up and he is still sooooooooooo adoreable…….TYSVM for all the months/years you have provided such educational information and most of all the live cam…….:) You don’t know how much you all make my day!!!!!
THANK YOU LATE AFTERNOON CAMERA VOLUNTEER…..it was really nice to see Yun Zi so comfy in the tree, totally relaxed. He was so tentative a few months ago, now he acts like he was born in a tree.
No photo captures for me today, but if you go on over to Rita Petita’s Flikr page there are some lovely new Yun Zi Photos to see. If you go to the picture in the series where they start, and work back to the beginning it makes more sense…Love Grammmie
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ritapetita/
The link in case yo need it.
Some of us no longer have our Fathers—–I think it might be nice to consider Sweet Daddy Gao Gao for our Father For The Day—-just like we let Bai Yun be our Mother For The Day. Happy Father’s day to all, especially to our Gao Gao, Father of the Gao clan.
Panda Team: I’m curious about the vaccines LP has received. Do the US Pandas receive annual vaccinations? Reading the blog from our Thailand friend, is it distemper vaccine that LP might be receiving?
Rabies – is that a threat to bears? I remember watching the weekly exam Yunior would get and he was receiving shots… I can’t remember reading what all the pandas receive… they receive a worm medicine monthly?
Moderator’s note: Our panda cubs receive distemper and rabies vaccinations. We do not put them on heartworm prevention.
Yun Zi was especially cute today, lying in his hammock on hsi back and chewing on his pawsies. I’d like to thank the camera operator for getting such a great shot of My Widdle Guy! Also, thank you for the great shot of Bai Yun sitting like a queen in front of her subjects, munching on boo. She is a gorgeous, gorgeous lady!
Dude, I had no idea some people felt that way. We are fun girls over here enjoying our lives, waiting on my man to get home from serving our country. Just a way to entertain ourselves, with some good clean fun and intellectual conversations. I do learn from the people at SDZ who take the time to write the blogs. I have learned a lot about pandas and other bears. I have even meet (so to speak) people on here that I started caring about. No need to skip over our comments, we shall be swimming or shopping or doing something else from now on. God bless. Texas Barbi signing out.
One last thing, I notice that the very people complaining about others’ comments are people who never bring anything intellectual to the table. God bless you. Perhaps, it is a generational thing. I like being young. No fuddy duddies over here. We wrote silly stories to try to cheer people up, as the news said that people in America were hurting (not us). We just wanted to entertain and cheer people up.
We will miss you Grammmie, I like that you are young at heart, stay that way.
Before I go, here is what came to me at 3:30 am when I was pondering Mei Xiang’s previous situation. They may have already tried this, but AI Mei Xiang in advance of when Mei Xiang ovulates. In business we make projections. I figure other fields do, too. If they could project when they think Mei Xiang will ovulate, based on her history (most recent history being most important) and depending on how long Tian Tian’s contribution will last. Could they AI Mei Xiang in anticipation of her ovulating. Could they AI Mei Xiang in advance and a second time just to be sure. By the Grace of God, Mei Xiang will have cubbies next time around.
#151 Pandafan from Thailand: Did you have the opportunity to go to LP’s 1 year birthday celebration?
Why all the fuss about people not blogging on according to what others feel they should. I don’t blog much but I do enjoy reading all of them, on topic, not on topic, about pandas, hope and lily etc. It is also a place to express our thoughts and prayers for those in our panda community who are going through health issues. I enjoy the information posted by the SD staff as it is very informative. Even though a while back someone complained about the staff using ‘Yunior’ instead of Yun Zi, I always refer to him with that nickname. I have nicknames for all the ‘kids’.
My favorite video, Cool Tai and His Hideout, has been posted on Pandas Live On. Don’t miss it! It really shows how smart and goofy our little black and white friends can be. Tai certainly deserves his reputation as one cool guy.
# 160 Texas barbie and others you are missing the point, if you have something to share about the Bears then by all means then share, but have you thought about people who get on the blogs to get info and don’t have time to read through all of these personal emails if they are looking for informative info on the animals. Texas barbie your post about not using Facebook or twitter is fine I think that is why Joe #160 said to use personal emails and you won’t be talking to complete strangers. We are just saying what the Zoo moderators said a while back in another blog ( wish I could find it for reference) to keep the subject about the animals and the Zoo that is the point, most people get on here to read what is going on with the animals and at the Zoo and Park and not about your personal lives that is what E-MAILS are for.
Moderator: Do you know why the PandaCam hasn’t been changed today? We’re still seeing the tree where Yun Zi was yesterday afternoon.
Hi, a quick question. What is going on with the panda cam today?
All day, the only thing I see are leaves and branches. Thank You.
Moderator’s note: I’ll have to find out on Monday.
Went to the Columbus Zoo today. And saw a Sun Bear!! I didn’t know we had any. Visited the new Polar Bear Frontier… it is pretty cool… Now I’ll have to be sure to visit SDZ’s Polar Bear exhibit to compare!
I was impressing my fella with all of my zoo animal knowledge.. He was quite impressed what I knew about Sun Bears… The Polar Bears were awesome!! They were showing for the crowd.. I also found out that Grizzlies are brown bears, but not all brown bears are grizzlies.. I’m still trying to figure that one out. Also didn’t know that brown bears are 2nd biggest bears.. I was thinking that Black were bigger than Brown…
One thing that bothered me was a woman trying to get one of the silverbacks to “pose” for her. She was very loud and obnoxious.. the Docent heard her and came over to stand by her… I guess the lady didn’t see the “sshh.. quiet zone” signs posted. She was also laughing because she scared the deaf silverback who was very close to the glass when her flash went off as she was taking his picture. Okay.. got that off my chest.. thanks..
They have a 4 month old baby gorilla who came from the Knoxville Zoo (?) and had to have one of her legs amputated when she got in the middle of a family scabble. The Mom tried to feed her but the baby was having a hard time trying to recuperate and Mom’s milk dried up… So she came to our zoo. The zoo keeper was sitting with her in the exhibit.. They take turns holding her… Wow.. can I have that job?
Couldn’t find Jack Hanna so I could ask him in person if he’s working on getting Columbus a pair of Pandas…
Moderator’s note: Our Animal Bytes: Brown Bear fact sheet as a good explanation of brown bears and grizzly bears.
Panda Team: Is the “Panda Dance” around columns or up against the door/or exhibit a anxious / nervous behavior?
Moderator’s note: It’s usually a “I see the keeper and I know it’s time for my next meal” dance.
OK — it was finally changed shortly after my earlier post, but I still can’t see much of Bai and Yun Zi.
Much better than the empty tree shot however…
Texas Barbi(Gabrielle) Reading your comments… you’re not going to stop blogging are you?
don’t anyone stop blogging i enjoy reading about all of it. everyone doesn’t feel that way texas barbie . i admire you waiting on your husband in service. thank you to you’re whole family. tell your husband thank you. blog on.
One more parting comment, SOME OF YOU GUYS SUCCEED IN HURTING A LITTLE GIRL’S FEELINGS. GOD BLESS YOU.
I’ve watched videos of Chiang Mai (sp) Zoo keepers washing down their pandas–even the adults! I’ve seen them give Lin Ping a good scrubbing with towels. Is this just a personal choice with zoos? I can’t see it as a necessity to try and keep a bear clean! Of course, it would be very tempting and fun to hug and cuddle that adorable cub Lin Ping! I don’t see how the SDZ keepers keep from squeezing and playing with that sweetie Yun Zi. I’d just want to love him to pieces!
Moderator, I saw on one of Rita Petita’s photos that Yun Zi was taking meds mashed with honey and apples in a red bucket. What kind of medication does he take and why? Thanks!
Moderator’s note: Your question has been forwarded to the Panda Team.
Pam and Dianna from Ohio, you are very kind and there are also other very kind people on here, but it is time for us to move on. It was probably not a good idea to encourage my daughter to write stories about Yun Zi on here. In the future, Yun Zi will just be in the pool with us. (One of my daughter’s panda stuffies goes swimming, now.)
SDZ, you taught me a lot about bears and helped me find a passion for protecting our wildlife.
Texas Barbi and crew signing out.
#181 Anne NYC – That is my favorite video of Tai. Pandas Live On now has a couple of Lani when she was a baby and new pics.
I always thought Lani was the “laid back” cubbie and her brother “mr. onery”… looks like she was a little handful as well…
#191 KJ: Lani received a bath after a few days at her new place in China. I’ve also seen a couple videos of panda babies getting baths in one of the reserves in China. The US zoos let the Moms take care of keeping the babies clean and giving the adults enrichments such as the saw dust to roll around in.
Lin Ping does get a “sponge bath” as well as her mom and dad. I believe they put Dad in a crate to give him his… Not sure about Lin Hui… LP gets several hugs from her keepers it seems..
I’m sure our keepers restrain themselves to just “fluffy butt” scratches through the fence as a safety rule…
I did see a really cute shot of Lin Hui and Lin Ping sleeping nose to nose on the wooden bed and Lin Hui had her paw laying over Lin Ping…
#177 Texas Barbi (Gabrielle): What do you mean when you said “We will miss you Grammmie, I like that you are young at heart, stay that way.”? Is Grammmie going to stop commenting?
#190 Texas Barbi (Gabrielle): Who’s feelings got hurt? What do you mean? By the way, have you seen those adorable pictures of Yun Zi on Flickr? So cute!
Anyway, I was just petting my dog and then he fell asleep. So, I put one of my small panda stuffies right next to him. It was precious!
And now to make everyone smile: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LtCxLqnlq34
#186 Dianna from Ohio – further to the “Panda Dance” also called “the Stevie” by some (after Stevie Wonder and how he sometimes moves on stage while he’s performing:
- At the National Zoo in D.C., Mei Xiang does the dance usually when she wants the keepers to open the doors so she can get outside; there may also be times when she does it because she knows the ‘boo’ is coming.
Moderator: there is something wrong with the cam………do you guys need help with this? I would be happy to assist!
#191 KJ I do not know about small zoos with only a pair and their babies…..but in the kindergarden classes in the Chinese bredding centers…when the young first go on to drinking milk formula from bowls they often end up with more on them than in them, washing down their faces and fronts may be a way to keep them from having rotten millk all over them………but those are large groups of babies.
Did anyone see those videos of Mei Lan on PandasLiveOn? I could only see the first one because my computer wasn’t working too well, so I couldn’t watch the others. Oh, but that is ok, the video was adorable, don’t you think?
Did anyone see those aodrable pictures of Yun Zi on Flickr by Rita Petita? They’re so cute, Rita is such a great photographer
Had the pleasure of seeing the keepers cleaning up and preparing Bai Yun and Yun Zi’s area this morning when Yun Zi came climbing down from the tree to get at the bamboo that had been placed on his hammock. He covered himself with it like he was in panda heaven. The keepers then placed some treats on the stone throne, and Yun Zi couldn’t resist coming down to get the goodies. I don’t know who had the better time – Yun Zi or the keepers, who got to spend a few minutes loving him. Lucky keepers! My question to the Moderator or Panda team is where do Bai and Yun Zi seem to prefer sleeping – outside or in their bedroom? Also, if Bai wants to sleep in the bedroom, does she make Yun Zi go with her, or will she let him stay outside alone?
Moderator’s note: Your question has been forwarded to the Panda Team.
Things are heating up at the Atlanta Zoo; don’t miss the last update about Lun Lun hormones level…
Thanks Ladies for the info on cleaning the bears. I get a kick out of watching videos of Lin Ping and her keepers. They seem to spoil her just like a parent with a new baby! Putting out all the toys for her–rocking horse, slide, balls, etc., giving her hugs and watching her intently while she plays on the structures. It would be hard not to get attached to the little darlings!
#195 Dianna from Ohio – I have seen Chuang Chuang being cleaned while in a cage, and I have seen Lin Hui cleaned, not in a cage, while in an indoor enclosure when Lin Ping was still a small cub, each time Lin Ping was in an adjacent enclosure. I think Lin Ping is cleaned every day, followed by weighing. Last night, this morning in Thailand, she weight 39.2 kg, 86.3 lb. The “cute” keeper was washing her and carried her to the scale all by himself!! I was holding my breath as she could have scratched his face with her paws very easily if she would have made any move or try to fight back being held, he was carrying her in his arms like a baby… I guess they like each other as nothing happen. He brought her back to her enclosure in the basket, no resistance with that either….
Lin Hui often bathe in the pool, but I haven’t seen Lin Ping doing that. They may stop cleaning her when she starts bathing by herself…
#197 Marie – Thanks for that video, very sweet. Lin Hui seems to be so proud and happy with her little daughter on that video…
#198 pandafan-north – Mei Xiang is also doing that dance when she wants to get inside…
Lin Ping is starting to do a pretty good imitation of the Stevie too while dancing around her pillar…
Will there be a new blog update on Yun Zi soon? I’m anxious to hear the latest news on him.
Moderator’s note: We’re working on it
WHEN THE SUBJECT OF PREVENTATIVE MEDS FOR THE PANDAS came up it was noted that heart worm prevention is not used routinely, I noticed that many things they do recieve meds for are also what our dogs (and perhaps cats) get in this part of the USA. Is Parvo something that need not be worried about, or do they get meds routinely for that? Thank You—and good morning everybody.
(No new photos of the Panda Gang this morning, but be sure to put Rita Petita’s link in your list of thingsl to check every day. I find myself checking up several times a day since she works on them when she can.)
Texas Barbie, I haven’t been reading the blogs for the last four days and, having finally caught up, find that you are leaving us? Don’t go, you have a love of wildlife which is why we are all here. And we adore Pandas. However, a little diversity in the chat on here helps us to get to ‘know’ each other. Please reconsider, who else will we chat to about Hope and Lily?
I am hoping that Lun Lun and Yang Yang will produce a little cub all on their own without any help, but if they need some then I suppose I don’t mind!!
I have now got to go and see what else I have missed.
By the way, Moderator, do you know if the Panda Cam will get HD like the Polar Cam at some time? I am aware that money is always a big consideration but the quality is so wonderful.
Moderator’s note: It is unknown at this time. But I agree that the new Polar Cam is spectacular to watch!
#197 Marie, thanks so very much for the video of little Miss Ping and her mom. Never realised what a beauty Lin Hui is!
#197 Marie – thank you so much for the video of Lin Hui and Lin Ping. It really shows that any life is fragile when it is just starting. When I look at LP now, it’s easy to forget how fragile she really was when she first came into the world. And the closeups on the video allow us to see how remarkably tender Lin Hui was as a new mother towards tiny LP. These are such sweet moments especially when we can observe them up close.
Well, it was a busy week-end at the Atlanta Zoo, Lun Lun ovulated. Lun Lun and Yang Yang had access to each other on Sunday to give them an opportunity to mate naturally. Since they did not mate, the Zoo’s team performed artificial insemination on Lun Lun twice. Now we just have to wait…
So, is this what just happened… Momma came by and scented the branch, Little Cloud was following her, saw what she did, stopped and proceeded to copy her? Amazing……monkey see, monkey do!
A BIG THANK YOU TO THE CAMERA VOLUNTEER this afternoon. It was fun watching both Bai Yun and Yun Zi play and fight, and I got some good snaps.
RE: PANDA DANCING…NOBODY DOES IT QUITE LIKE LIN PING. She is by far the most graceful, and I would swear that her free leg has it’s toes pointed as she spins and entertains us.
I think Yunnie is assembling materials to build a house over the grate–he’s got tree limbs and rocks and bamboo. Nice to see him and Bai playing during the day.
And now he’s playing “I can really scare Mama if I climb out on this teensy weensy branch.”
Wow they’re having so much fun this afternoon. =) I hope they’ll be this active when I finally get to visit San Diego next week!!!
Do you know why Bai Yun sometimes likes to walk over Yun Zi, hover, and then continue walking? I’ve seen Lun Lun do that before! I’m thinking it might be some kind of funny hug.
Did Lun Lun AI’ed for Lani and Xi? It sounds like ZA have quite the collection of reproduction experts on hand to make this happen… Good luck to Yang, Lun and the ZA zoo!!
#197 Marie: Thanks for the LP video. Lin Hui is a very good mother. I hope she and Chuang have another one when LP is weaned. They have pretty babies… Was Lin Hui AI’ed for Lin Ping?
I was wondering when LP dances if she’s anxious but maybe she’s just flirting with her keepers.
I have not seen much of my little cloud lately, I must tune in at the wrong times lately. The few times I have seen the little guy it was from a distance sleeping on his throne. I thought it was Bai Yun at first until I saw her in the corner eating her boo. Boy is he getting big, he sure has gone through a growth spurt! I just love him! I go back and watch all the videos and photos and cannot believe I have been following him for 10 months now! One of my favorite videos is of the exam when he first barked at the vets! I think he startled himself! I miss those video exams. Does he ever bark anymore? Do they make any sounds at all? I have not seen much of Zhennie girl lately either. Is the weather there getting really warm, maybe they are all sleeping more….
I also love the polar cam, it is great. I saw them stretching out last night. I really need to get there someday.
Moderator’s note: You can hear some panda sounds on our Animal Bytes: Giant Panda page.
Hi! It’s 11:15 pm EDT, and I just got done reading the last 2 updates on the Atlanta Zoo website’s panda page after monitoring their updates for the last couple of weeks. Lun Lun has finally gone into estrus and finally ovulated! This was determined late Sat./early Sun. thru behavior and hormone analysis that has been done on a daily basis lately. They have their regular entourage of American and Chinese panda experts on hand to observe Lun and Yang Yang. Sun. morning, the keepers let Lun and Yang get together with the hope of the 2 of them mating. They waitied, nothing happened. They went on to do semen collection from Yang, and then did 2 AI procedures on Lun on Sun., 6/13/2010. Now, the wait begins, you all! I think that this is the latest that Lun has gone into estrus, so if and when she does become pregnant, she will probably have her 3rd baby panda cub roughly around the middle of September (that’s my guess). In the meantime, the countdown starts now, and we will be watching and waiting nervously! Lun is the last hope for a baby panda cub this year.
Check out the AZ panda page for further updates; there is a chart with the last 2 updates now.
Read the article about the sun bears. Really interesting!
Also been watching the SDZ pandacams the last few days, and have been seeing Gao in his favorite private room eating his boo, Su Lin buried in boo, Yuni napping alot, and Bai eating, sleeping, and walking around. By the way, has Yuni started to eat solid food yet? Just curious because I thought I saw him on the cam a few days ago munching on something! Let me know, ok?
Gonna go for now. Will check back later on!
Chari Mercier
St. Pete, FL
Moderator’s note: He nibbles on bamboo and other foods, but Mom’s milk is still his main source of nutrition.
#179 Dianna I was in Japan on the Lin Ping birthday paty. But you can see on many Birth day paty vedio .
I am going to make Lin Ping story vedios
This is an episode 1 www(dot)youtube(dot)com/watch?v=NUfbv6Gie7M
#212 DANIELLE, NYC Like you I wish them good luck and fertility.
#213 KAT W I wonder why he feels he must copy mommie….I observed him doing hand standing scent marking before the denning days were done….it had to be instinct since he has never seen another male, and mommie may have done summersaults into the den, and stood up to glare at the camera, but she never did a handstand that I saw.
#215 FRANCES IN NYC I happened to catch the “Yun Zi play with mommie” scene and the “rocks and logs over the grate” too. I thought he was wondering when the Nannykeepers put out the new enrichment toys.
There are some new photos on Rita Petita’s Flikr Account of Bai Yun and Yunior playing—Bai is winning.
Hi to Texas Barbie and everyone else. Please don’t let a couple negative comments keep anyone from posting on here…you never know how much you appreciate everyone on this blog, until you can’t read them. The Moderator, in her infinite wisdon keeps this blog (and others) on track. If she thinks it’s inappropriate, it won’t be on here. All I have seen today is the hollow tree. It reminds me of when Zhen Zhen was just about weaned and she and Bai Yun were cuddled up together with Zhennie trying to nurse. I can’t get over how much YunZi has grown. I am also excited about Lun Lun and hope if she does give birth, it’s without the drama of Xi Lan’s first couple of days. That was a heart stopper but look how terrific he turned out. Thanks again for everyone’s delightful comments. It’s great being back.
To All: Go to DoxiMom’s Flickr site
She has some photos which she took recently!! Here’s the link:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/pandalover19/
Now for DoxiMom: I am absolutely THRILLED for you!!! We all will be waiting to read the details of your Panda visit!!
Dear Moderator…I would love one of your updates to describe ‘a day in the life of a panda keeper’…also, what do you do…is it always the same moderator…I am sure you don’t sit around waiting for our responses…tell us about some of the ‘behind the scenes’ activities and staff…what goes into designing a panda habitat including the vegetation…just a thought…thank you.
Moderator’s note: The blog moderators are part of the Publications staff, not the Panda Team
But your topic suggestion will be forwarded to the team.
So happy to hear Lun Lun at the AZ has been artifically inseminated. Don’t know what I would do if we didn’t have a baby to watch.
Our little man, Yun Zi is getting so big. He’ll soon be a year old. My time flies!!
Moderator: Thank you for the link to Brown Bear Faqs. I totally understand the whole “not all brown bears are grizzlies, etc… Makes alot of sense. Once I started reading I couldn’t stop so now I have more questions! The female brown bears are “sows” and males are “boars”. Does that apply to all the bear family? I can’t imagine Bai would like that title
Correct me if I am wrong, but in the pig family, aren’t castrated males referred to as boars? And the females can have her cubs while she is hibernating…. AMAZING!
Our 2 Brown bears (Burtus and Buckeye, brothers) at the Columbus Zoo are HUGE! I’ll be sure to visit the SDZ brown bears when I visit in August…
Moderator’s note: Your question has been forwarded to our bear experts.
#219 – Linda Luvs Pandas: I remember that bark! It was so funny. I also think he surprised himself. Didn’t know he had it in him!
Just caught up on the blogs. I’m quite dismayed that some of us are getting upset. Let’s remember, we are fortunate to have a moderator on this blog site. and they will have the final word on what’s posted and what’s not and I personally think they do a fine job. Let’s just go with that.
Moderator’s note: Thank you!
To Chari Mercier, #220: You are guessing on a 90 day gestation for Lun Lun, which is at the shorter end of the panda spectrum. 120 days is more like the norm, which would push a cub birth to mid October. Maybe Lun’s Lun’s biological clock will tell her she ovulated late in the year and she will deliver early, but maybe not. Anyway, it’s just cause for more nail biting from us pandaholics as we wait & hope that this does not turn out to be the disappointment of a pseudo-pregnancy.
Moderator, can you notify the camera people that there’s a big smudge right in the middle of the protective covering on camera 1? It does NOT move when the camera does, which is why I think it must be on the covering. Thank you.
Moderator’s note: Will do.
#197 Marie….thank you for the lovely video…..so sweet…..
Was just on the pandacam, and the cam people had this great closeup of Yuni laying down on his side nibbling on a very thin piece of boo! Very cute and adorable! I have also noticed how much bigger he has grown lately. I’ve seen him napping on his tree hammock, and he looks like he’a about ready to outgrow the thing already! He’s still a very precious cub to watch every day! Luv ya, Yuni!
Chari Mercier
St. Pete, FL
Texas Barbie (Gabrielle) – Please don’t stop posting your stories! I love them! As a matter of fact, I sometime skip over other posts to read the stories first! Creative people like you are very sensitive, so take heart in that.
When you have a blog with 226 comments you’re bound to have a few negative ones. Forget them. What matters is that we panda people want you here.
To quote our wonderful moderator who replied above to a complaint:
“Moderator’s note: Some of our blog readers have fun sharing their passion for bears in different ways.”
Take the encouragement and write on!
#192 Linda
It was a worming medication. Our pandas get a rotation of worming medication every three months. This was Yun Zi’s first worming medication.
I agree with you, NancyB #229!
I come to the blogs for information on the bears and skip the posts that are not informative. It’s as simple as that and up to the moderator(s) to determine what is appropriate to the blogs and what is not. No drama needed. My scroll wheel works perfectly!
Yunior is so cute. Right now he is napping and has covered one of his eyes with his paw to keep the sun out of his eye.
Thanks Panda Team for the information on Yun Zi’s meds! It’s good to know that he is being kept healthy and happy. Thank you for taking such wonder care of all of the beautiful animals at the SDZ and for sharing so much information about them and about their care with us
Suzanne, wonderful article on the Sun Bears
I read the article in my Zoonooz, but am always interested in hearing more about the bears! Thank you Moderator for the link to the Animal Bytes: Brown Bear fact sheet. So much great info at the SDZ website!
Bobbie Wood, long story short, a road trip from Oklahoma to a family wedding in Louisiana was rerouted so we were able to stop by the Memphis Zoo. I FINALLY got to see a Giant Panda in person. Le Le and Ya Ya were wonderful host and hostess, keeping me captivated for 3 hours, lol. Anyone with true panda passion knows how thrilling and emotional that first glimpse is. The only downside was, for the first time since Yun Zi was born, I was away from my computer! Thanks to the San Diego Zoo’s time-lapse (my software can s-l-o-w it down) I was able to play catch-up on the 6 days I missed with my California panda family.
Widget, I am so happy to have you back and to see you here posting again!!
Frances in NY, now you know where I’ve been. I’m working on two videos from all the fun Bai and Yun Zi had Monday afternoon, including the events you mentioned in #215 & #216.
Wow….Just finally read this entire post of comments. I love the SDZ blog and have learned so much. Thank you DoxieMom for all you do, and we hope to see you at the next convention. Our sights are set on learning more about the Pandas, so anyone that says this blog is not for education is not correct. I have many questions, and ask them frequently, as I am not a Panda expert or even know the names of many of those in local zoos. Please all be friendly and know that all our hearts are in the right place with Panda preservation.
#208 Grammmie
There is some evidence that giant pandas in the wild have been exposed to parvovirus, but information is lacking regarding clinical cases. So while it may be possible for pandas to get parvovirus, we feel the risk is low enough to not warrant vaccination at this time.
Thank you Panda Team…it is good to know that you do not medicate and vacinate just because you can. I would imagine with Parvo in our area we would certainly see problems with it in our Pandas by now.
An FYI, no U.S. zoo has any active plans to import Giant Pandas in the near future. A few years ago the Oakland Zoo attempted to acquire a pair but the deal did not go through. Also, the National Zoo’s loan expires in December 2010 and the zoo has not made a decision on whether to continue to exhibit the species or not.
Yun Zi is so cute.
Yun Zi is such a surfer dude. 
this sun bear is so cute