Come see the little tyke in person!
You’ve been waiting to learn when our adorable panda cub, Xiao Liwu, will make his public debut. Well, wonder no more! The official date is this Thursday, January 10, at 9:30 a.m.
Many of you have wondered why Xiao Liwu has not been seen much on Panda Cam these days. That’s because his mother, Bai Yun, has led him out into what we call the north exhibit for a few weeks now, out of our camera’s view. Now, the Panda Team feels our five-month-old cub has become confident enough to navigate around this large habitat while being admired by his adoring fans! We’ve installed a new HD camera in the north exhibit, so those not able to see him “in the fur” can continue watching his progress via Panda Cam.
Please know that the north exhibit will only be open for two hours for the first few weeks (9:30 to 11:30 a.m.) to help the cub acclimate to his many fans. As he gets more comfortable, that time will increase. Please also know that Xiao Liwu seems to like being in the exhibit’s moat, so he may be “on exhibit” but “out of sight.” However, his father, Gao Gao, and big brother Yun Zi will continue to be available for viewing in the main Panda Trek exhibits, so you are bound to see from one to four pandas on your next visit!
Debbie Andreen is a blog moderator for San Diego Zoo Global. Read her previous post, Elephant Antics.
UPDATE: Our Panda Cam will show Xiao Liwu’s employee and media preview on Wednesday, January 9, from 8 to 9 a.m.
That is going be fun seeing him.He well have fun out there.That is great news
Break out the tuxedo and champagne…
Noooooo tux. What is cham…chamm….you know….is it nice?
Wu Wu
Mr. Wu, you are much too little for champagne, but maybe Mama will let you have a sip of sparkling apple cider!
Bless your heart, you sweet little darling
I L.O.V.E. you! ♥
SO excited about your debut!!!
hehe! Don’t blame you for not wanting to wear a tux!
Does your Mama still want you to wear a tux??
Don’t believe you would care for the chamm. Better stick with your Mama’s milk….k
We have really missed seeing you as much these last few days. Now that we know your debut is in a couple of days, I’m guessing your Mama has been getting you all “spruced up”!!
We Love visiting with you. You are such a sweet, precious baby and we L.O.V.E. YOU!! ♥♥♥
Sending you and your Mom Big (((((HUGS))))) and looking forward to the 10th~~
BTW~~We’re hoping to see you before then~~Please!!!
No no tuxedo. Champaigne is for a”toasting”. That means it is for congratulations. Big Word.Many big words.You are just loved by the world. That is a good thing, little boy.Now is the time to learn and have fun.
And before you don a Tux, find out what Momma would wear on a Thursday morning, check with Ge Ge Yunnie about what he and she wore. Get on your iPAW mini and ask your other brother and sisters wore, and Momma to. You may find that being number six is helpful. Love, Hugs, and sneaky kisses from grammmie
Mama says I have to be at my best so I shall be weally weally clean. Hee Hee. Ge Ge told me to smile and wave and not be shy. For now, Wu Wu only wants to dwink Mama’s mewk. My hooman unkas and aunties can have that cham drink. Mama says it can make you light headed and naughty. Hee Hee.
Thursday is my staff and pwess pweview. So I fink I go on exhibit the day after. Not sure. You ask my Mama she knows evewwything.
Love,
Wu Wu
Moderator’s note: Wu Wu, your press preview is Wednesday morning. You meet your adoring public on Thursday. Smile!
Our love affair with Little Gift goes on and on. It has filled in many hours for me and I am totally smitten with the little one. His Mama is such a great mama. Can’t wait to see him in the “fur.”
Oh, I wish it were possible for me to see this darling on exhibit, but I will be happy to rely on the PandaCam and the remarks of those who do get to see him up close and personal. Just call me a proud grandmother!
Thanks Debbie for the update on our little one. Can’t wait to see him out and about. He is just too cute. Bai, you are such a good mama.
Telling the boss that I have a pressing appointment Thursday morning!
Can’t wait to (maybe) see him in the fur. Thank goodness for annual memberships.
Heather—don’t you know a Pro Photog that you can “assist” on Wednesday, or would you be so excited that your cover would be blown???
Oh, I’m so glad our “little gift” will be on exhibit soon. I have really missed seeing him every day. Seeing him interacting with his mother or even just watching them sleep was a great way to start the day. Thank you Debbie for the good news.
First thing I do next weekend is get out of bed and drive to SDZ. Xiao Liwu here I come…!!
Thanks Moderator for the news!! I hope pandacam can support all of us who can’t be there….you know we will be glued to our computer screens at 9:30 am Thursday morning.
Go, Mr. Wu, goooooooo wuuuuuuuu!!!
What Fine News!!! I cannot wait until January 19th because I will be at the SDZ with family!
I figured that the ‘reason’ we were not seeing XiaoLiWu as frequently was because he was practicing for his debut!
Will there be an “official” video for his debut besides seeing it on PandaCam? I will not be available at that time and sure would miss his first public viewing
Moderator’s note: Indeed!
The debut videos are the best. Zhen Zhen falling off her ball and Yunior putting a leaf on his forehead… Kodak moments for sure!!!
Ain’t it the truth, Dianna!! I love watching those old videos of the debuts still.
How do we find some of those old videos. Every time I try for them, especially from old blogs, but find them unreachable. Love grammmie
go to youtube & search – San Diego panda debut
this one is Zhennie’s media debut
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WYvpe5NezTA
Thank your Maureen-you are a great helper…love grammmie
oh that is so great. Can’t wait to see him out in the Public view. Thank God for Panda cam so we who can’t come and see Bai and Mr Wu will be be still able to see him. I sure have missed seeing them in the last few weeks. I watched them yesterday (Monday) and I loved it. When they are finally out are you going to help us(Pandaholics) identify them all. Of course we will know Bai and Mr WU but the rest of the family? Thanks again for the Panda Cam and all the blogs.
Kathy, further down the comment section I gave some instructions on helping to get to know them each so that identifying is easy. Love grammmie
There used to be identifiers on the cams so that you know ho you were looking at. Can that be done again??
Moderator’s note: No, not with our current cam system. But watch long enough and you’ll soon be a pro at telling “who is who.”
Thanks grammie for the comment to help me know the the rest of Mr WU’s family. I love reading all your comments.
Kathy I love it when I can help others, like others have helped me. The zoo Facebook page has a lot of photos that will help with recognition. Later today, or tomorrow I will be posting some more photos that will help identify, or at least get new folks familiar to individual looks. Even the nose, between the eyes and down to the black part of the nose has “cowlicks” that make a pattern to help identification. There are small differences even within a family that can be helpful. Then there are us busy bodies that will try to help when you ask, if we can. Love grammmie
I wish I could see him in the fur. Weather here is too cold for me, I could use a sunny vacation. Seeing the pandas again would be the cherry on the sundae. Anxious to see him out on exhibit.
Great news!
Dear Wuu Wuu, Congratulations on your Big Deal! I look forward to seeing you in the new environs. Hopefully exploring your new habitat will tucker you out so completely that you won’t need to bite mommy all night long & climb on her head & back and … well, you know what you’ve been doing!! Be safe though … try not to fall again; I know you are round and bouncy but there’s a limit! Will your Pandy Keepers throw a big ‘coming out’ party for you?? Hugs little man, a loving fan.
Maggie, further down I mentioned 2 HUGE Panda Falls, they may help you. I think the biggest was 50 ft., but that might be the shorter one. Love grammmie
Ouch!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I’m so happy that he is ready for this day. I know Bai had her hands full getting him ready. I have one question, you said the in the exhibit will only be on for
only 2hrs for the first few weeks. is that 2hrs everyday or just a few days a week.
That way I wont bug you about where is he! LOL
Moderator’s note: The plan is for two hours every day.
Thank you! :0)
Dear unKas and aUntIEs,
Please hewp a dear sweet panda cubby. My mama has put on her note pad – Baff Baff Baff for Wu Wu ewewwy day and ewwewy hour. Please telll my Mama you will love me even if Wu Wu is diwty. Please save me from baffs.
Honey Wu Wu
Xiao Liwu: Oh, yes, we love you just the way you are! BUT Auntie Deborah S is a mama too (AND grandmama). I know how important it is for our kids to look their BESTwhen going out in public. So try to be patient and understanding with your loving mama and put up with those baffs. It won’t be long before you will be big and going off on your own…sigh… (Did I really say that?
) Love you Liwu! 
Poor wu, momma knows best, but once on exhibit you should be able to get as DIRTY as you want
Hey Sweet Wu Wu~~
♥
We Love you any way you show up!
Your Mama Loves you and is SO proud of you. ♥♥
That’s why she wants you all cleaned up.
Mommies are like that!!!
BTW~~Please be careful in the trees!!
We L.O.V.E. You, little guy! ♥♥♥
Worry not Prince adorable WuWoo, I love you no matter what. So dear Queen Bai, limit your baby “baths” please.
Oh precious one, Snugglepuff…
Maybe if you could find some extra apples, her favorite, she might forget about all those baffs! Ask the SKS Nanny Keeper for apples for Mom, hold out with the kisses till you get the apples! Yes, yes we will love you regardless of diwty or cween!!
Huggs and Air kisses,
Beverly
PS The Beautiful and Most High HIH Bai always knows best, so she always gets her way in the end, maybe learn to have fun during the baffs,,. bite her on the snoot!
OMG!… I am in so much trouble!!! why o why did I do that!
Beverly….did you get my note to you on the previous blog comment section??? Love grammmie— it was about SKSNannyKeepers. I hope they don’t “get me” for it.
Yikes! I will go check for it… hope I got it!
Grammmie,
Is it:
Grammmie
Posted January 6, 2013 at 12:08 PM
Okay, everybody, close your eyes and do not look at this link…….it is just for Beverly, and her investigation of SKS NannyKeepers, tell me what you see. http://www.flickr.com/photos/ritapetita/4383477769/in/photostream So sorry to be the one to show this to you….love grammmie
I hope our Moderator allows the link again… it is sooo cute!!
I left my comment… yes, they have perfected the kiss sneaking to “look” like this… but we can see!!!
Everything but the / at the end of the whole thing. It is when I start showing photos and videos of what happens at the Annual Zoo Keepers Ball that they give me a hard time, they are pretty good the rest of time.
Your mama said No,no.And I will tel him what he needs. All babiesw need to smell sweet.
Mama Bai Yun
ok… then it is! “Baff Baff Baff for Wu Wu ewewwy day and ewwewy hour.” sorry Snugglepuff.
Dear Aunties and Uncles,
Of course you dont want to view a dirty little panda cubby. You want to see him black and WHITE and cute and cuddly. As his Mama I will ensure he is fit to be seen. See all of you on Thursday Wu Wu time.
Love,
Missy Bai
Bai Yun: I put in a good word for those baffs…
Keep up the good work — Little Wu is adorable and he will be a big hit on Thursday! 
Not to worry!!!
Hey HIH Bai Yun~~
We understand how you feel. lol We Mamas are like that, aren’t we?!!
Have to tell you though, we would Love your precious baby Wu Wu no matter how he would show up! ♥
You are the Best Mama. I really admire your care and patience of your baby.:) He is SO cute and fun to watch.
BTW~~how are your ears after all his nibbles on them?!
We’ve missed seeing the two of you as much lately. We are looking forward to yours and Wu Wu’s Big day on Thursday!
Hope to see ya’ll today and tmr also. hehe Guess you will be busy giving baths!!
We Love you!! ♥♥♥
Would anybody like to see a really dirty photo of Yunior??? Love grammmie
Moderator’s note: I hope you mean Yun Zi covered in dirt.
Yes, Grammmie, what ‘dirty’ picture? I have been a good boy.
Yes that is what I meant—I was not addressing a younger sector of the audience……but it is funny you caught it, I bet you are fun at parties. The Zoo Keepers Ball must be fun ! ! !
We will start with this one……
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ritapetita/4404171492/in/photostream
Can only do one at a time. Will try to make short
Another one……
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ritapetita/4395528186/in/photostream
In this one he is stubborn AND dirty…..
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ritapetita/4395528186/in/photostream
There is one where both momma and baby Yun Zi need a BIG BAFF, When I find it it will blow the roof off the zoo, and there isn’t one! ! ! !
I messed up on the last one, I hope the three further down come out right.
This is very exciting news. Can’t wait for his debut. Wish I could be there.
Be brave my “Little Gift” and of course, stay as cute as you are! I will still
be watching, as always.
Will be at the zoo in mid Feb. and can’t wait to see the little guy. Now, how do we get to the north exhibit?
Moderator’s note: Just around the corner from the main exhibit and facing the panda gift shop.
ask any helpful zoo employee or follow the long line
Look for the crowd dressed mostly in black and white.
Oh, I’m so excited! I’ve been wondering where Mr. Wu has been.
Can’t wait to see him in new surroundings. He is so entertaining. Thank you for keeping us well informed and for your care for all of the animals.
He’ll get to see if big sister Zhennie left any surprises for him in the moat. Can’t wait to see him out there!
I will try be there to meet Bai Yun & Xiao Liwu on this Thursday!
I am soo excited to see them but promise to be quiet there.
Are we allow to take a photo of them?
Moderator’s note: Yep!
And the folks at home can take all of the postcards photos they want too!
Am I correct in assuming we need some sort of camera on our pcs to take post card pics???
Moderator’s note: No, you just click on the camera icon (the middle of the three icons) in the upper-right corner of the Panda Cam screen and following the cues. Happy postcard taking!
Great news for panda fans!! I wish I could be there for his first appearance; however, I’ll be good and ready to enjoy a visit during the Pandamonium 2013 convention in March..
Moderator, will Wu and Bai Yun be in what we’ve known as “the classroom”?
Moderator’s note: Yep!
Ooh, I’ll be out there on Sunday morning. I am so looking forward to meeting the little guy!
such a big boy now!!! wish I could be there to see him, but distance too much, maybe one day, but shall continue to enjoy him via Panda Cam, thank goodness for technology!!
This is exciting news! Thanks for the installation of the additional camera. Can’t wait to see him on the Panda Cam and “in the fur”!
Hope we get to see all four in March for pandamonium!!
Oh for sure Anne ~ we’ll all have our fingers crossed that we we get to see all of the family!! Wouldn’t that be exceptional??!!
Excellent! Our Mr. Wu is ready for showtime! I bet he is going to love it. He seems so enthusiastic about all around him. Bai Yun will be proud to show him off.
I had a feeling after seeing the video of his last exam and watching Liwu’s acrobatics, he’d be going on exhibit soon! He’s also been climbing the “trees” very well (see Doxie Mom’s videos), so he should have a lot of fun entertaining his many, many fans live and in “fur-son” !
oh, thank you for putting in the new HD camera. the debut news will have a lot of panda fans swooning.
also, I am glad for the opportunity to view Xiao Li Wu (and Bai) on the live cam but I also cherish seeing Yunnie and Gao Gao. each one has such a different personality that it’s interesting to watch their distinct behaviors.
Well said, Mosaic_World! I second that thought.
I am all smiles!! Oh dear, I fear I may have turned into a true panda nut. Could be worse.
SC: Yeah…. I’d say you’ve caught the bug. You’re in good company — look how many of us “panda nuts” are out here. Isn’t it great?
Nothing wrong with that, we all are, and very proud of it
My husband said I was obsessed with that baby. Wish I was back in San Diego so I could see him live. Its been like watching my own child grow. Thank you San Diego Zoo for sharing with all of us the opportunity for such a great experence. It has taught me so much about how Panda moms care for the young with such love and tenderness.
Oh yeah! Let the running and climbing begin for Xiao! That’s when the fun will start with Xiao doing all of that running and climbing, and also climbing all over his mom to play with her! I have always loved these cubs when they really get going on those 4 legs and start moving around alot more, and then the climbing lessons get started! I don’t like it when a cub falls off after climbing anything, but these cubs have always gotten back up and will do it again! They don’t back down for nothing when it comes to learning how to climb anything!
Glad to see Dennis Carney writing on our comment page again after along layoff! I have been praying for him as he deals with his wife being in the hospital again, and we all hope that we hear from him more often!
Gonna go and check on pandacam again! No one was in the den when I checked it a few minutes ago.
Chari Mercier
St. Pete, FL
I was reading over the weekend about the really huge fall of Cousin Lin Ping’s that got her an ambulance and an MRI, she was fine. Then there was the huge drop on the head in China that put a male in a coma. They worked on him around the clock for four days before he came out of the coma, but he is fine. Let me qualify that…..how would you know if a Panda is goofy, they are all goofy, but seems normal for him…..love grammmie
When he gets in moat, how does he get out?? I wish I could be there, but hopefully I will get to see him this summer.
Mama will probably be able to get him out, or he will figure out how to climb out on his own.
this doesn’t quite answer the question about getting out of the moat, but the blog did remind me of an older blog post about Yun Zi’s rainy day in the moat.
http://blogs.sandiegozoo.org/2010/02/23/a-yun-zi-story/
Thanks for posting this link!! I had been thinking about that day. The yellow slicker and the prase ‘scaring the black off him’ is one of my great memories of Yunnie in his younger days.
I figured he has shown me enough strength and stretch when trying for the top of the den that there is no problem, and Mo, aunt Jackie, wonderful memories of THAT DAY! I cannot remember for sure, but I think there is a blog in the archives of that day. I only wish I could remember the name of it, since the name makes it easier to find…love grammmie I bet our new friends would get a kick out of it…..do you think Yun Zi has it stashed in his den?
Thanks for posting this. I remember being hysterical when reading the first time (and this time too)
He has been able to climb out on his own.
are you going to list who is who so we know which panda is which?? i can’t wait to see him and the rest of them
Sharon, Yun Zi and Gao Gao have name plates on their exhibit, so you will know who is who. Plus, Gao Gao is missing 2/3 of an ear and has very cute fuzzy feet. Yun Zi has a hammock in his enclosure, and Bai Yun will be with the baby.
Yippee!! I hope to get to the zoo next Tuesday. Maybe by then he will have discovered there’s more excitement to that area than the moat. Can’t wait!
Hope to come either Friday or Sat to catch of glimpse of Mr. Adorable! He’s grown so much! Hopefully, he won’t be down in the moat when I come!
how exciting! I hope to someday get to see him in person!
Will there be a debut video for those of us not able to watch live?
Moderator’s note: Yes.
Won’t be able to see him until mid-February but I’m already swooning away. Watching him on the new cam in the north exhibit will only build my anticipation. Can’t think of anything more fun to watch than a little panda cub cavorting around the outside world of climbing structures, moats, pools, trees, tormenting mama, etc. Ah, yes — let the excitement begin!
‘Wuuuuu Wuuuu, where are you?’ calls Mama.
‘Oooh Oooooh, must be baff time!’ figures Wu Wu as he tries to hide behind Mama. But he is a tad slow and she has him flat on his back.
‘Mama, I am clean. No baff please? I am a big boy now and I don’t need baffs!!’ pleads Wu Wu though he knows it is futile. His heart sinks as his Mama does a diaper check.
‘Mama, when I go on exhibit, no public baffs OK?’
Bai Yun considers this for a moment and she smiles.
‘Mama, pwomise! Wu Wu no wike that smile,’ says Wu Wu who is now familiar with Mama’s various smiles.
‘My dear Xiao Li Wu, Mama loves you and wants you looking handsome for the public. Sheng, Yunz and now you are my 3 sons. If you look untidy which panda Mama will want you as son in law? Mama is thinking ahead. Soon all the panda mamas will check the studbooks to see if you are compatible to their daughters, then they will call Papa to arrange the marriage. Mama must make sure you look good.’
‘WAIT! What girl panda? What mawwage? Wu Wu is baby!’
‘Now you are baby are you? Then you have to listen to Mama. And Mama syas you need a bath. See your ears are dirty and your neck….tsk tsk, come here!’
‘NOOOO, Wu Wu bite Mama!’
‘And Mama bites back, hee hee……Mama is going to carry Wu Wu!’
‘Nooooo, Maaaaaaaaaaaaaaa, noooooo, put me down!’
‘OK,’ and Bai Yun drops Wu Wu on his tushy. Wu Wu giggles. He knows his Mama is being cheeky.
‘OUCHY Mama.’
‘Mama is not feeling ouchy,’ grins Bai Yun.
‘Mama, I am ouchy!’
‘Really? There’s so much padding. Let me see….’ and Bai begins Wu Wu’s bath.
‘Hee Hee Heee, Mama, you are tooo funny!’ giggles Wu Wu as Mama tickles him mercilessly.
Your posts (stories) are priceless!!!
LOVE THEM!!!!! ♥♥♥
You really should have a book!
Please keep writing!
Do you suppose he could get his two big brothers to help him protest cubbie baffs???
very cute. I was similarly thinking that now that Xiao Li Wu is such a big boy, he must be protesting his baths more strongly. but when I’ve caught him on the night cam, he is sleeping like a baby.
Be prepared-he will protest for another year!!!!
What a delight to wake up, have a quick breakfast, and when I turn on the tablet have a Gao/Bai Family story right before my eyes. In between the fresh stories Lil &Bil have helped me find some of the older ones that takes care of me for most of the day, and if not I have about a million photos to enjoy. I am a happy Panda Lover…..Good Morning Everybody, I hope you had a good night, and hope you will have a good day……love grammmie
Dearest Mama Bear and Prince of the baff kingdom,
This is priceless. A great story for a great New Year AND the week of your
public debut. I adore each of you and all that you do. Have fun, little one on
your special day. Love, Auntie
The stories are so cute. Yes you should write a book. I would be the first to buy one. It is so great to know that Wu and Bai are going to out so all can see them. So excited to see them.
Kathy…sorry, I have been begging for a book since the first installment , but I will save room for you right behind me……love grammmie
I am so excited to see the little guy venture out! I’ve shared the pandacam with anyone who will watch and then they become fans too. I am so thankful that we have wonderful technology that allows people from across the country to all learn about and come to love a little furry guy like him! Someday I hope to travel from Oklahoma to the zoo, hope to see all of you there!
My class and I also watch from Oklahoma.
Přeji Malému dárku šťastné první kroky v novém prostředí,je mi tak líto,že jsem od Vaší zoo tak daleko a nemohu ten malý zázrak vidět při jeho debutu.Malý Mr.Wu se za těch pět měsíců stal součástí mého každého dne.Zdraví Prague,Europe
Moderator’s note: From Google Translate: Have a Little gift happy first steps in a new environment, I am so sorry that I have from your zoo so far and I can not see the little miracle when debutu. Mr.Wu after five months has become part of my every day
Want to see this little darling soooooo bad!
Seems the moat is a safe haven for panda cubs since the cubs at Zoo Atlanta loved to stay hidden in their moat. Can’t wait to see Mr. Wu and Bai Yun outdoors via Panda Cam! Thanks for all you do to help preserve these magnificent animals.
Oh, I am so excited! Moderator, I am assuming to get there right when the zoo opens to have the best chance to catch a glimpse? I’m excited to see the entire panda family, but I especially can’t wait to see Mr. Wu see all of his admirers for the first time.
Moderator’s note: The Zoo opens at 9 a.m., giving guests plenty of time to make their way down to Panda Trek. As for best chance of a glimpse, no guarantees! We can only promise that Xiao Liwu will be in that exhibit somewhere.
There will be cameras, flashes, video cams too, he seems to like them, maybe that will help! My Darling Yunior, please have a chat with baby brother about how he should handle the fans. He will, of course, address the press well, tell him that the fans are kind of like the press for the rest of us panda fanatics. The press comes out during special events, the fans come out every day, often for years, just ask poppa and momma!!! Love grammmie
Zoos usually have :”media day” before the public debut.
I will be watching on Pandacam on Thursday. So exciting. I will be in the US in June and can’t wait to see Little Wu and Bai Yan in the fur. Got to see the adorable Yun Zi and Gao Gao in the fur last year. Would be amazing to see all four. Hope all goes well on Thursday xxxxxxx
Oh, and one more question (sorry!) I’ve seen the other cubs as babies, but never got to go to their debuts. Is there one line for all 4 pandas, or separate lines for Yun Zi and Gao Gao and Bai Yun and Mr. Wu?
Moderator’s note: There is one line for Gao Gao and Yun Zi and a different line for Bai Yun and Xiao Liwu, as mother and son will be around the corner of the main panda viewing area.
AWE! I’m so happy that I’ll get to see Xiao Liwu “Little Gift” on Thursday, I will be there to see that darling baby panda…Thank you Moderator for telling us about Xiao Liwu debut in public…Last night mom and baby were sleeping so cute side by side, in the den, it was late, but worth waiting for to see both of them in the den…I can’t wait until Thursday, what a great way to start the year to see the pandas…
Thank you for the great news. So pleased he is ready! Look forward to visiting SZ in February.
Moderator’s note: We look forward to your visit, Rose!
I can’t thank you enough for such a wonderful birthday gift. I’m flying to San Diego from Chicago on Wednesday and already had plans to spend Thursday, my birthday, at the zoo communing with the pandas. I can’t believe this little sweetheart will be making his debut the same day. Thank you!
Moderator’s note: What a great way to spend your birthday, Jen!
Hi Debbie,
I’m sure Doxie Mom will get some great video of it, and soon he’ll be out for longer and longer periods of time. Let the fun begin! He’s our brave little one!
Thanks for the great news! I’m really excited about little Wu making his big debut on Thursday morning because I have a membership & can attend. However, my concern is that you can’t guarantee that the two will actually be on exhibit at 9:30. I would assume the Bai Yun is awake at that time but if the baby wasn’t, you wouldn’t interfere with that by waking him, would you? The reason I ask is because I have a meeting I need to attend at 10:20 so I’ll need to get right in, and out of there. It’s kind of selfish of me to push it like this. I’m just sooo excited!
Moderator’s note: The Panda Team chose that time for his debut because that’s when Bai Yun has been bringing him out. What we can’t guarantee, Aunt Nancy, is a sighting: he will be in the exhibit, but he may be in the moat or hidden behind a bush. Paws crossed that he’ll be busy exploring!
12:30pm my time. You can be darn sure I won’t be late coming back from lunch
Hmm. Better yet, I’ll eat at my desk and watch Master Wu’s coming out party. Is it just me, or is he growing up waayyy too fast?
All little Wu’s fans in the UK will be eagerly watching at 5.30pm GMT on Thursday for his debut with his mom Bia.
Thank you Debbie. This is fantastic news! Xiao Liwu will be top news around the world on Thursday! I’ve changed my Thursday plans to be home to watch live on the cam. Thanks to all at San Diego zoo for allowing us to share in the lives of these adorable pandas, I hope one day to visit and see them in the fur. Thanks also to the ever patient moderators for answering so many questions.
Moderator’s note: We are happy to help and hope you can indeed come visit our panda family one day, Maria!
Maria will your Pandas be watching also so they can get excited about having one of their own when the time is right.??? Love grammme
So soon? Amazing! We will see him in April! He has grown up SO FAST!!!
WE ARE COMING TO SEE YOU, BABY WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!
As I watch the cubbie and his mother spend time together and see the closeness that they share, and knowing that they will only be together for around a year and a half before being separated, it makes me wonder about the following: 1) when the cub and mother are put into separate exhibit areas, never to spend time together again in the same exhibit, what emotional and or physical affects does that have on the mother and cub, if any?; 2) if one of Bai Yun’s children, for example, Yun Zi, was able to have contact with Bai, would Bai know that Yun Zi is her son, and Yun Zi know that Bai is his mother – would they remember each other at all and get along with each other since they spent around a year and a half with each other? It makes me sad that one day Bai will be separated from her little boy Xiao Liwu, because they sure do love each other a lot. On another note, I am excited about the cubbie and his mother’s exhibit debut on Thursday. I know what I will be doing during those two hours they are out in the exhibit area – watching the cutie little cubbie and his wonderful mother.
Moderator’s note: Weaning is done very gradually here at the San Diego Zoo; it is not an abrupt separation; see Weaning Panda Cubs. As for question 2), Bai Yun prefers to spend her days alone once she has weaned her cub. She does not like to share her food.
This is my first experience with a panda cub, and I found this blog to be very informative, thank you. Can you tell me, at what age was Yunnie actually weaned?
Moderator’s note: 18 months. See Clearly, Very Ready.
Your moderator is so correct, just watch the first time you see her open Wuuuu’s mouth and extract a snackie he has tried to hide there. And for 2 or 3 cubs in a row she has sat beside them while they strip a nice piece of Boo, then reaches over, plucks it from their grasp, and eats it. I think that is why we have trouble getting her the Mother Of The Year Award. Well that and the answer to the question of how many times does she prefer baffling the babies, and all the kids yell “Too Many”!!!
Thank you very much!
Thank you moderator and Debbie (from PA) for your links to previous blogs about the weaning process. This is my first time watching a panda cub grow up, so I was not aware of the weaning process and separation protocol. I clicked on the moderator’s “Weaning Panda Cub” blog link and scrolled down to read the blog entries and came upon links to blogs explaining all the steps of Zhen Zhen’s weaning process from mother Bai Yun. That was quite informative and I would recommend others who are new to the world of pandas to read it as well. And the blog link from Debbie answered my question about how the separation process emotionally affects mother and cub. Thanks again moderator and Debbie from PA for the informative blog links.
I just wanted to thank the moderator for the “Clearly, Very Ready” blog link and Debbie from Pa for asking the question about Yunnie’s weaning process that prompted the moderator to reply with the aforementioned blog link.
Hey Debbie~~
Thank you so much for letting us know about Li Wu Wu’s Debut.
This is So exciting!! Thanks also for telling us where he has been lately.
Have really missed seeing him as much.
He is such a precious little darlin’. ♥
Thanks again~~
See you in April, Mr. Adorable!! You be a good boy until I get there, K?
Thanks for the great news Debbie. The 9:30 start time gives little Xiao Liwu plenty of time to make the long walk to this yard from the den. He certainly will enjoy all the climbing structures available. Bai too. I imagine the zoo is going to be very busy on Thursday morning.
It was very hard on Yunior….he liked to sleep until 11:00a.m.
He is so adorable! It is great that he is ready to be out on exhibit for a while and everyone is lucky that can see him. I can’t, but hope to catch glimpses of him while he is still young via the cam. I always feel sad when they leave the den! lol Thank you for all that you share!
Debi, in the past the cam focus was still mostly on the young panda, so you will still see quite a bit of him……unless Miss Panda Universe 2008 drops by for a visit with Yun Zi….love grammmie
Grammmie,
She has not visited me yet. Sigh. In our culture, the man has to make the first move. Papa says not yet.
Yunz
Well finally, the rug rat gets to show off in the fur. He is so cute. I wish I could come see him. Maybe I will get lucky enough to actually catch him on the cam.
Start watching for videos later in the day. Check you tube too.
Does this mean they will be starting on the climbing structure soon?
Moderator’s note: If all goes well, we hope to build Yun Zi’s sturdy “tree” in February.
Yayyy!!! So we will get to see Yun Zi’s tree in March for Panda-Monium!! I hope all goes as scheduled with the construction. Thanks Moderator for the news.
Moderator’s note: That’s the plan, subject to change, of course.
Does this mean Yun Zi will be taken off exhibit during construction. Or perhaps Gao Gao?
Moderator’s note: Yes, one or the other so the tree can be safely built in the habitat area.
Is there a good chance Yunzi can make good use of the tree for a while before he goes to China? We really would like to see him enjoy it very much but we do understand that he turned 3 last year and so his time at SDZ is even, even more precious.
We’d like to see him have very good memories of the tree which many of his adoring fans have given him as a gift and to his family as he and his family are loved by so many! We are hoping SDZ will do their best with some “negotiations” to let him stay a little longer like his sister Sulin.
Moderator’s note: He’ll have lots of time to enjoy his tree!
Yeah!!! The big day is almost upon us. Of course I’m one of many that will have to watch from home via Panda Cam but am anxious just the same. What is up with the moats? Po was attractd to the moat in Atlanta too. They started the weaning process between him and LunLun the other day also. It sounded like its going pretty good but I will miss seeing thier play sessions. Thank goodness I have BaiYun and our Little Gift to watch. This is going to be awesome! Thanks to the keepers and everybody who helped prepare for the big day. (especially BaiYun)
Once Wu goes on display will he and Bai still be allowed to use the den?
Moderator’s note: The den will be available to them until they no longer wish to use it.
i can’t wait to see him. we have had to cancel our vacation 3 times just so we could see him.
Can someone please help me ID the bears? Yun Zi is the one with the hammock and the teepee area around his watering hole, yes? How do I know Bai from Gao Gao, assuming the cub is not in sight? Thank you! xx
Moderator’s note: Gao Gao has a “rugged” look with a partial ear and very hairy paws.
You and the moderator are on the right track. You have Yunior down well, as for Bai Yun, she is lovely to look at, slender nose and Mickey Mouse ears. That get rounder and more forward to her face when she is up to mischief. When eating she goes around the enclosure grabbing all of the special snackies first. Gao has a broader nose, rounder face, left ear is very small. He is rarely in a hurry, and eats only small bamboo along with some special bread (bamboo) that is golden brown in color. Get on flickr or you tube, pull up photos or videos that you can get more ideas of familiar looks for each panda. You tube-use panda’s name, for flickr, etc. get names from us if you don’t know who has photos, some will share names of folks who’s photos they like. Just keep “seeing” them and one by one they will become more and more familiar, and you will begin recognizing so fast folks will think you an expert. Love grammmie
I forgot Goa’s feetsies……they are the sexiest feetsies of Pandas in our zoo. The hair on top is black, but so abundant that you can hardly see his claws, and the moderator already told you about the brown hair on the bottom. Gao’s feetsies are too georgeous to be missed. Check back later or tomorrow right here and I will give you a few links to photos that show those feetsies to their maximum best….love grammmie. Do you think I might have a feetsies fetish?
Uhhhh… yes, Grammie. I would definitely say you have a feetsie fetish!!!
You are soooooooooo funny!
Oh, Grammie, like I said earlier, I just love your sense of humour!
I decidedly have that fetish too regarding Gao Gao’s feetsies.
I can’t even go there… Sweet Daddy Gao sexiest feetsies… OMG!! just too sexy!!! a must see! sigh…
In a few days I will put up some photo links I am gathering showing the bears many ways. Study hard, looking at the photos (I did not photograph them, but a dear friend did), and did a great job. I think 99.9% of any photos I love come from her wonderful camera, she is a wonder. Love grammmie
Look at Yun Zi in that tree all twisted every which way. I’d have a stiff neck and bad back and would need help getting out of that tree. That would be on any given day of course, even with out the tree. We humans are like that you know.
Lest you are too hard on yourself, don’t forget what we humans could do when we were teenagers! Oh, my, maybe let’s not!
When we survive teenage the slate is cleared and we get to try again.
Will cubbie’s debut be the huge media event of debuts past? And will Chinese dignitaries be there?
Moderator’s note: We’re offering an employee and media preview on Wednesday. I’ll ask about the dignitaries.
San Diego Zoo Global responds: We do not have a schedule of visitation to share.
Thursday morning? I’m at work. Oh, wait, I think I feel a flu coming on… a mysterious illness that causes me to call in sick, yet feel perfectly fine right about the time XLW makes his debut.
Yes Kathryn, there will be a lot of flu going around Thursday morning, lol
It’s propably the Pandinfluenza. The symptoms seems like that and it’s on the move.
Kathryn, I love your thinking! Isn’t that the illness where one gets black and white spots?
PS But don’t worry. It’s relatively easy to treat with watching the pandacamera.
And it is fatal if not treated by a good long “in the fur” look at the clinic of Dr. Wuuuu and his lovely assistant Momma Bai. The best time available is Thursday morning, first come, first served. No hugs will be prescribed at this time……love graemmmie
As you see, there is several opinions in this topic too in the medicine. I naturally meant that the symptoms will ease with the cameratreatment. A full recovery requests “in the fur”-treatment in the clinic, as Grammie said.
I for my part must content myself with the cameratreatment here in Finland.
Kathryn,
Once you have contracted this illness, the Pandinflluenza, it must be treated all the time, no known cure, you never really get over it, sorry minimum treatment is the Pandacams!
Grammmie has had it for a very long time, no cure, as well as… well I think you can spot them by now!!
Bless your little black and white spotted heart,
P. Bear Huggs,
Beverly
I really wanna go there on Thursday, but I have school
I can go to SD zoo on Saturday, but I don’t know if I can see little cub coming out of den
Andy I wish I could go too, but my health prevents it. I bet there will be a new video of him coming into the yard with momma, and you will get to play it the minute you get home, if you are allowed. Check “you tube” for even more footage too. Good luck, love grammmie
Yeah!! I look forward to seeing Xiao Li Wu very soon!!
OMG! Yikes!! Their is a GIANT baby P. Bear in the dean!!! Is that you Shali Li Wu?!! He is huge!!!
Meerkats you are good… Real Good!! Thanks!
I missed it….I will try later….love grammmie
I don’t think there’s been one little cub that hasn’t been mesmerised by the moat!
Since the cams are operated by volunteers and can change the view between the pandas. We all hope that Thursday morning the cam operator/s from 9:30-11:30 am will have the cam fixated on Xiao Li Wu while he is out in the exhibit for all of us not able to be there in person.
In which case, hopefully all those who follow the other cams will be understanding if those ones aren’t following their animals.as they move about their exhibits. .
I am pretty sure they will, and when the action is over a video will soon be up, and you can check you tube for other footage. The cam operators have not missed a debut yet, and it is entirely possible a zoo staff member will run the cams for the time needed. What surprises me is that usually there is “press debut” the day before, so I am not sure why there wasn’t one this time. He is already the darling of the media…………….Love grammmie
Moderator’s note: The media and employee preview is scheduled for tomorrow, January 9.
Is it too late for me to become an employee?
Nice try Lou, I wonder if 3000 employees have ever been hired in one day! Love grammmie
Woo-hoo, Baby Wu & Mamma, too!!!! Two more days!!!
Or…. One more day, after today. I like that better 
Woo Hoo To you too for our little Mr. Wuuuu!!!!! Love grammmie
Yun Zi is a good boy, eating his greens.
For those of you who can not see Woozy in person, I found 2 videos from YouTube featuring up-close and in-your-face look at panda cubs from Bifengxia.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OdZs2rUg_r0
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UOjb9LcvNB0
How nice of you to share, I think we all have one great big thank you for you, and a little kiss from Mr. Wuuuu. Love grammmie
I have had a thought…..pehaps we should show those to Mr. Wuuuu, you can tell the first ones had baffs, and the second ones were getting baffs because they are dirty, and I heard the word shampoo in the sound portion!
Nanny Keepers Has little Wu Wu been on the phone to Atlanta Lately? Because I believe that idea came from Master Po. The Moat is his and his siblings favorite spot in Atlanta.
Better be checking those phone bills! LOL
He uses his iPAW mini to chat with his cousins, good investment, no phone bills.
Betty, thanks for the videos. Looked at both of them and for sure those pandas were cute, but not nearly as high quality as the one’s at SDZ. Good job with the pandas SDZ.
Many are concerned that Wu will grow up too fast, and not be a baby long enough. Let me assure you that on the cam, if nowhere else, he will keep his baby looks for a long time. Bai Yun is a Big Panda Beauty, Mr. Wuuuu so far is her smallest cub, and I saw on cam or in photos Yun Zi, a large cub, most of his time until weaning, he never looked grown up while he was with her. You will see a baby in Mr. Wuuuu for a long time to come. Remember Yunnie is 3 years old and is just beginning to pack on the pounds and start to look like an adult. Yet he does not act like a grown up…he is a goofy teen…and his grammmie, aunties and Unkas love him.
There is a baby sleeping in the den, right now!
I have been having a wonderful time Dr. Wuuuu sleep, even without his lovely Assistant Bai Yun in the picture-but we hope to see her later…love grammmie
Dirty pictures of Yun Zi, I MEAN PICTURES OF HIM PRETTY DIRTY have links in the 16th color change from the top. If I find a very special one of he and HIH BAI YUN both are black bears, and smiling. Dr. Wuuuu will get out of those baffs soon……I am on the case! If I find the photo the link will be posted here. Hey I am giving up time to watch Mr. Wuuuu.
Here is one I have been promising when Yun Zi decided to make himself momma’s hat……
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ritapetita/4664854671/in/photostream
I just love those feetsies……
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ritapetita/4745005306/in/photostream
I am having a problem lifting stuff to paste-otherwise I love my tablet, since all of the 10 numbers of the links are the only thing different about the six showing the inner tube with Yun Zi I am just going to put the entire first one in, then one the next 5 just change the numbers there will be spacers in between them…love grammmie. Remember those / / every place belonging.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ritapetita/4817422852/in/photostream/ && 4817418214 && 4817396432. && 4817396140. && 4817396878. && 4817397324 Total of 6–Yun Zi is about 12 months old I think. He was big.
Here are the dirty ones-I think
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ritapetita/5195483512/in/photostream/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ritapetita/5315781305/in/photostream/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ritapetita/5317614951/in/photostream/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ritapetita/5317617653/in/photostream/
Ones in which he was dirty. Just wait until I find a special one I am still looking for…..you will be amazed ! ! !
Good save, Grammmie! (on the “dirty ones”). For a second there…
Thanks for sharing these Yunior photos, Grammie! You are right, he was still very cubbie-like even when he was past 1 year old!
Aw Mr. Wu is all curled up in the den. He looks so big. Even his flufffy butt has gotten bigger! i just love him. :0)
Oh so happy. I love watching Bai Yun and Xiao Liwu together. So cool. Great to see Bai Yun care for her little one, cuddle him, etc. They love each other so much. Thank you for the new cam in the north garden. This is so great! Thank you all for your very hard work and dedication to the Pandas and all the animals that live at San Diego Zoo and around the World. My hat is off to each of you.
What a recent amazing video of the SDZ accomplishments!
Long live San Diego Zoo! Long live animal kind!
Thank you so much, SDZ!!!!
Auntie Kat
1am edt Poor Wu getting another baff from “mrs clean”
I don’t watch the panda family, much anymore I’m just a wimp, I just get too darned attached, but I do peek in on them, here and there…tonite, they both look so darn sweet playing together, Bai still has the strength of a mama bear holding Little Gift up and over her, and he looks so big and roly poly now.
I forgot how watching them every day can make me smile, even when I have the blues. I forgot. Just spent 5 minutes laughing at their shenanigans and I feel better.
God, thank you for these beautiful creatures. They fill my heart with
pure love, and that just feels so good inside.
I must have been good at least once today, when I left I went to the cam, and there were two pandas. Bai has been through this 5 times, yet tonight she is hugging him to the point that he must turn with her. Mr. wuuuu doesn’t appear nervous! ! !
With such a busy week for Bai Yun and Liwu, will Liwu have an exam this week? I think he is going to love the big outdoors, he is very adventuresome. Is the moat you speak of between the exhibit and the viewer walkway?
Moderator’s note: No exam this week, and yes, the moat is between the exhibit and the viewing area.
poor Bai Yun, it’s the middle of the night (about 1.40am I think – it’s 9.40am in the UK), she’s trying to sleep but Xiao Liwu wants to play and is using her as a climbing frame.
He’s getting told off, she’s even tried lying on her back and putting him on her feet to keep him out of the way.
To Little Wu-zi,
Your Special Day is just hours away! People from around the world have been watching you grow – some from the day you were born — as you were being fed, bathed, tossed around by Mama, and when you took your first steps and played with your green ball. Many of us end our nights by making one last check to see if you are cuddled up with Mama for the night. We’re not silly really — we just love you so! It’s important that you continue to listen, respect, and love Mama with all of your heart always (no more biting her ears because that’s an ouchy, OK?) So Go Wu-Wu Go! We will all be cheering you on — just be sure to make a Big Splash on your Special Day! Love and Big Hugs for beautiful Mama Bai!
Thank you, Auntie Yvonne. You have a pretty name.
Wuv,
Wu Wu
Honoring the Mamas who Love their cubbies so — Something for Bai on this Very Special Day…
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8uw0GaJcIyk
The cubbie is going to be busy the rest of this week with the media/zoo employee debut today and the public debut on Thursday. And he also will have his physical exam this week too, right? He looks like he has grown a lot since his physical exam last week. It will be interesting to see how much he weighs now. He is certainly becoming more muscular climbing trees. Along with my question about when his physical exam will be this week, my other question is will the panda cam show Bai and the cubbie in their exhibit for the media/zoo staff debut or will a video clip of them be shown? Or do we have to wait until Thursday to see the cubbie and his momma in their new exhibit space?
Moderator’s note: No exam this week, and yes, Panda Cam will show cubbie’s media debut AND we’ll have video available later today.
And to all the other panda bloggers out there – since today is media day, can anyone who sees newspaper articles, newscast videos, and/or you tube videos that cover Bai and Xiao during media day, please post the links on the panda blog site. Thanks.
At 7:18am est, there was an adorable play session between Mama and son. These antics are almost “unbearable” to watch without wanting to reach in through the computer and join in on the fun. Don’t overdue you two, you have a huge day coming up tomorrow!!!
MC in ShangHi sent these to amuse us in a blog Feb. 24, 2010. Somebody, I think above here, gave the link to the blog and being an addict I read it, and the comments section too, this was near the bottom. The baby cub party has sound! ! !
Momma like bai scared by her baby?here it is: http://v.youku.com/v_show/id_XMjY4NDQzNjQ=.html
cute baby”s cub party http://v.youku.com/v_show/id_XMjQzNTUzMzI=.html
Forgive me Mosaic World by the time I thought to add it here I could not remember the name, but did not scroll high enough to get your name. I guess I was tired from reading both the blog and the comments.
For everybody else there are a couple of Lucilla writings, a must see if you like her style. Also in the comments are some great DoxieMom videos, and a copy of the Top Secret Project Bamboo (pandas star in it), and it is a scream. He worked on it for two years. The comments are filled with links to photos, videos, etc. you can pick them out quickly, so enjoy. Love grammmie
Hey I really like this Mr Wu Bear Cub…I love to watch this fellow all day.
What a gem these bears are to watch!
I bet the little guy would love the music band Loudness.
The little guy looks like such a rocker…he’s always living wild and free.
Mr Wu or as I call him Little peanut…hope to see more of this wonderful cheerful bear.
I also love the polar bear Tatqiq and her brother Kalluk and the old lady bear MS Shoonook.
Just watching Mr Wu having a great time outside 3.15pm GMT, first time showing himself to the cameras, better than the den. Moma’s keeping a watchful eye on the little fella.
Currently viewing little Wu outside in the garden. Is that the moat? He is a ittle muddy but so adorably, lovably too cute!
Moderator’s note: At 8:33 he is napping in the moat!
after about 30 min of wide exploration, looks like Xiao Li Wu is tuckered out and ready for a nap in the moat (?). hope the media got all the cute pictures that the public can handle. Bai Yun, the bather, will have her work cut out for her tonight. XLW is a little dustball.
I don’t know if you read all of the comments of the blog A Yun Zi Story, but one of them is about the 3 cubs only months separate their birthdays, Xi Lan the X Man, Princess Lin Ping, and Yun Zi. It is a cute story, and a few more follow it in other blogs. Love grammmie
He is all worn out from all that exploring!! Nap time!
How wonderful to see Xiao Liwu exploring the enclosure this morning! Watching him really brought a smile to our faces! He’s a busy little panda!
Enjoyed Wu exploring his digs and took lots of pictures. He is sleeping in the moat area now. So Cute!
Will there be a sound video presentation of his debut later today?
Thanks!
Moderator’s note: Yes.
How does he get in the moat? Does mom take him down those steps?
Moderator’s note: He can climb up and down those steps all by himself. He’s a big boy now!
Had everyone in the office watching him this morning.. What an amazing little guy. Thank you for sharing this wonderful experience with us!!
Oh my gosh! Look at him exploring this morning in his new digs. What a gift he truly is.
what an amazing site to see our little Little Wo come out, he seemed right at home in the exhibit and I was able to get a great photo of him lounging on the log and eating what looked like a biscuit. can’t wait till tomorrow. Thank you to all who made this happen
I just tuned in this morning not realizing Wu would be on display today. What a treat. I kept reading comments about the moat but since this is my first panda cub didn’t realize exactly what it was. How is he expected to get out of there.
Moderator’s note: If you’re looking at Panda Cam right now (9:23 a.m.), you’ll see he is sleeping in the moat and there are graduated steps (cement blocks) that allow him to climb in and out.
The past couple days I haven’t seen Mr. Wu, so I thought that today I would check earlier. I was so pleasantly surprised to find him in his exhibit exploring everything. He reminded me of a tot on Christmas morning going from one toy to the next, not knowing which toy to play with first. I loved watching his antics. He nibbled on something resembling red bark, climbed here & there, falling now & then, met up with Mama, checked out the plastic tree limb which must have had some delicious scent judging from Mama’s rubbing it over her head, crawled in & out of the tub of straw. He disappeared from the camera for a little bit, but was soon found down a slope taking a well deserved nap. Mr. Wu is the first panda I’ve followed from birth daily & have enjoyed the experience so much. I was disappointed that I won’t be able to watch his public debut live on the pandacam so I was so delighted to see him today. Thank you SDZ for making it possible to share nature’s gifts with us. The webcam brings so much joy to those of us who would not be able to experience the zoo otherwise.
Oh this was wonderful. Thank you, thank you for allowing us to share! At precisely 4pm GMT the door opened and that adorable little face appeared. And he has a tub with Bermuda hay just like his dad’s – sooo cute. What are the red strips he was biting on? Gao Gao has those as treats I think, but they don’t look familiar. His garden is beautiful, well done SDZ. The cutest part was when he lifted the branch and it knocked him over onto his back. I’m sure we all took lots of photos to add to the hundreds we’ve already taken since Xiao Liwu was born. Thank you again, makes me want to jump on a plane and come over right now!
Moderator’s note: The red strips you saw were some of the tasty leaf eater biscuits our pandas like to munch on.
Thank you for the interesting information. Yummy – they are full of Nutrients Minerals and Vitamins.
Leaf-Eater Primate Diet is a complete life-cycle diet specially formulated to meet the needs of leaf-eating primates.
Features and Benefits
Provides a variety of food fibers from fruit, vegetables, cereal and legumes.
No wheat product.
No sucrose added – Helps maintain dental health.
I spy, with my little eyes, a very dirty little bear sleeping (in the moat?)
This is super exciting!
Moderator’s note: He is indeed sleeping in the moat after about 35 minutes of vigorous exploration.
Thanks moderator for the confirmation. I missed the exploration part!
Hopefully video footage of his exploration will be uploaded later by either the zoo staff or panda fans!
Question: is today the first time Xiao Liwu gets to explore this exhibit area, or has he been coming here behind the scene?
Moderator’s note: Yes, we’ll post some video highlights of this morning’s adventure later today. Bai Yun has been taking him out to the north exhibit for a few weeks now, but this was the first time there was an audience.
Too bad I misses the exploration. He is even adorable sleeping curled up in the moat.
Oh, he is so cute, all snuggled up with a few leaves on him, like a wooly caterpillar! He looks so snug and cuddly!
A ZILLION thanks for setting up a new camera in the Garden. Watching Cubby (my affectionate name for him from day one) this morning wandering around and abruptly laying down and falling asleep in the moat was PRICELESS!! I’m one happy camper…sigh. <3
What a sweetheart! Fast asleep, all tuckered out from a busy early morning of exploration. It does look like Missy Bai has been busy with the baff routine, and I suspect she’ll be insisting on the tux. As for the nannykeepers, one wonders how (and if) they’ve been resisting growing temptations…
He is so dirty! lol What a guy!!!! I love seeing him have sooo much fun:)
I would sincerely like to express my deepest thanks to everyone at SDZ, the vets, keepers, moderators, cam operators, everyone who works behind the scene and all the bloggers for this connection to Cubby Wu and his family. This is such a dream for me and probably as physically close to live Pandas I will ever be able to come and I try to read and watch everything I can. Thank you for the links and postings everyone. All the photo captures, videos and the artwork photos are adorable! But especially to SDZ for making this possible for folks like me who adore Pandas but are unable to live or travel close to them. You are so blessed to be near them. Huge thanks to everyone for the extra work sharing such treasures. Please give the Pandas hugs and kisses for me!
Moderator’s note: You are most welcome, Ruth!
Aw, this morning was so cute!
The area is so pretty, with flowers too, the door opens and OH My! Snugglepuff came out on his own like he owns the place, he does! with a full belly of Mommie meilk, explored, played with some of Mommie’s carrots, a log, more exploring, then down into the moat he ventured, rather quickly too! only to find a fine snuggly place to take a nap! Why not, it is his place and he can do what he wants!
The Beautiful and Most High HIH Bai came out a few minutes later, had breakfast. I am not sure who I feel sorry for… her or Sugglepuff, as he manage to get messed up and she will be giving him a very long baff for sure! I can hear him now!!
Thank you SDZ for sharing this with us, such a lovely priceless gift!
Meerkats, you out did yourselves, gurrreat job!
Moderator’s note: Glad you enjoyed the morning’s adventure, Beverly! Just to clarify, we used to have volunteers called Meerkats who manned the cams, but now we have a new volunteer system and we just call these wonderful folks volunteers. We are so lucky to have them man our animal cams, including Panda Cam. Thank you, volunteers!
Sorry about that, didn’t mean to offend anyone, won’t do that again.
Moderator’s note: Oh, no harm done, Beverly. But our newer readers might wonder what meerkats have to do with Panda Cam.
When I turned on the cam and saw Mr Wu at the bottom of the steps, my very first thought was, “Oh no, Zhennie’s thrown her brother into the moat!”
I’ve been watching Panda cam for far too long.
Another SDZ Superstar meets the Pandarazzi and stole the day !
Can’t wait for DoxieMoms videos and any you might post later to rewatch Young Master Wu continue to conquer the World as it looks like Server has been placed on overload now by his Global Fans with the spinning wheel symbol…LOL 
Kudos to DoxieMom Part 1 of Xiao Liwu Meets the Press
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nVeuAx_p8Nc&feature=youtu.be
DoxiMom Part 2 of Xizo Liwu Meets the Press
:-0
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HUCHIPPDs0o&feature=youtu.be
Thank you so much Dennis!!! At the end of part 2 Liwu is just so exhausted he just passed out. He is so sweet. Thanks again for all you work and time.
Awwww. this is toooo cute for words
Bai self anointing, a little Wu doing exactly the same, playing with more, climbing in & out of the barrel of hay, getting dirty (poor momma Bai – well he did come out to exhibit clean) and finally falling asleep in the moat 
What more could the media want 
I lucked out this morning when I tuned in. My first thought was that he is not going to inherit his mothers nickname as “The Teflon Bear”. I did get to watch him explore a little before he settled down for his nap. What a cutie.
San Diego Zoo posted a tweet re: Xiao Liwu’s media debut! A picture is included!
http://twitter.com/sandiegozoo/status/289063120134098945
(PS. for those who uses Twitter, following SDZ is highly recommended!)
I seen Mr. Wuu the whole time outside even now sleeping. He is too much. Very noisy and adventurous. Do visitors see him yet?
Moderator’s note: That viewing habitat will open to our Zoo guests tomorrow, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.
Created this set of Xiao Li Wu’s press debut. Last time I looked, he was still completely sound asleep.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/kkshaw43/sets/72157632481938480/
He was so cute!
Thanks for sharing these pictures, Mary!
In case you need it here is the link to Yun Zi first day…………
http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=3rEKsfmcSho&feature=related#/watch?v=3rEKsfmcSho&feature=related
Thanks for sharing Grammie. I remember now how I played this video over and over again… Yunzi was a rolly, polly cutie!
I think Master Wu is going to sleep through his entire debut! Oh well. At least we get to SEE him! Having empty nest problems here. I can’t wait until he wakes up! Yippeeeee!
I didn’t sleep thwoo my debutt hee hee but I did snnoze in the moat. Heee Heee.
Wuv,
Wu Wu
Yepppeee! Can’t wait to see our new litle guy. Think I’ll give him some time though, want him to be comfortable with outside. Love those B&W creatures. Panda from Arvin, Ca.
That´s great!. I live in Argentina so it´s impossible for me to visit him but I´ve been following Xiao Liwu since he was born and I was starting to miss him on the panda cam.
Thanks to everyone at SDZ, now I can see the cute little guy again. I love him, he´s grown so much, he looks like a scale model panda.
Moderator’s note: We welcome our viewers in Argentina!
I follow SDZ because I like the way you treat animals, they sure have a well-kept habitat.
I enjoy watching your videos on youtube and I never close the panda cam-website.
I hope to visit the zoo someday (Maybe next summer).
Sabrina 2 years ago I ask my husband if he would take me to see Yun Zi at the SDZ for a Christmas present, he did take me. The exhibits are clean not just for the panda’s but all the exhibits. It is a wonderful clean zoo and everyone was so nice!!! I live in Oregon so it was a very long drive to the zoo!!!!
Yes, SDZ is one of the best. My husband need not ask me any more where we should go on vacations. He knows SDZ is the best even though it is a long drive for us. Every year we went since we first saw our baby cub, Sulin. Thereafter, we visited every time a new baby cub is added to the family.
SDZ’s animals are well-loved, cared for, and highly respected. I have only seen one other zoo and we both enjoy SDZ the most.. You can try the Safari trip and have the giraffe’s eat leaves you hand to them, or pet the rhinos while feeding them apples, especially the cute babies. Too bad, we cannot touch the panda cubs
…maybe if you got to the panda cub reserve in China, you will have the delightful honor to hold one 
Oh, he’s asleep lying on his back. He looks like a black & white otter out of water!
OooooeWu. I’m O’ddddd on cute today and it’s a happy, good feeling. Yeah for SDZ and Wu’s new enclosure. Can’t wait for more. Wake up little dude!!!
Missy Bai,
Kudos to you on a wonderful presentation! You cleaned him up and let him enter first. What stage sense you have. He was ravishingly cute–even the dirt couldn’t cover that up! BUT, Missy Bai, it was a treat to see you, drop-dead gorgeous bear that you are! many, many celebratory p hugs!
and congrats SDZ staff, you outdid yourselves!!
Why thank you for the kind words. It wasn’t easy cos Mr Snugglepuff was such a wriggleworm. I missed a spot on his head but still he was a trooper. So glad my boy showed his wu-ness to all. Thank you for loving us bears.
Panda hugs,
Missy Bai
You would think Mr..Wu would be hungry!!! Wake up!!! I want to see your cute little face:) He to me, looks like a carbon copy of Yun Zi.. who in turn looks like the beautiful Ms Bai. She has some strong genes and makes some cute lil ones. Thank you SDZ for all you do, between all the cams I feel like I’m right there with all of you!11
We’d like to see a contest to win a date with the panda!
Which Panda do you want to date??. Yunior is still young, but I know you would not make a pass at my Sweet Daddy Gao Gao. I think you just want to get close to Senugglepuff, or a two-fer w/Bai. Love grammmie
Xiao Liwu seems to have made it to the bottom and has been asleep – too tired to make it all the way back up the hill. Are you going to go get him???? He’s been there a few hours now and I’m worried about him being able to climb back up!
Moderator’s note: He can climb out on his own just fine. But babies need their rest, so we’ll leave him be.
Wow, thank you soooooooooooo much for allowing us to watch Bai and baby Woo interact today. Mama was trying to eat and baby wanted to play, mama made it quite clear that she didn’t want to be bothered. I think little Woo’s feelings got hurt so he left, found a comfortable spot, laid down and went to sleep. BTW, what is the Fur?
Mods be funny. Rather than seeing Wu Wu “in person”, it would be “in fur”. So did any media or employees show up in faux fur?
Moderator~ I was wondering. Does Master Wu have web feet? May have missed the answer in previous postings. Just curious as everyone says GaoGao does have that trait.
Moderator’s note: No, he has his mother’s feet.
Speaking of webbed feet I have read some older blogs that have me confused. Some say Gao hias four feet partially webbed, solid on all feet, just the hind feet, both partially and solidly, and the left rear foot between toes 2 & 3….you can see why I am wondering. When Gao has his yearly physical could someone take just a moment to check out his sexie feetsies and make sure we understand the webbing correctly, and if checking Yunior check his feetsies too? I know it is not high on the list of priorities but would only take somebody minutes to check, while others are working in other areas. Thank you…love grammmie
Liwu has been sleeping a long time, is this unusual for Bai to let him sleep this long alone in a place strange to him? This is so interesting to watch and learn how animals teach their young.
Moderator’s note: It’s perfectly normal.
Hi Moderator,
If Woo doesn’t go back to mom to eat, will she go find him or call to him? She seems to know by instinct and probably her teats filling up that it is time.
Moderator’s note: She will let him know if it’s time to eat, most likely by coming to get him if he’s still asleep.
Man, can that little guy sleep!!
He takes after daddy in that respect!!!!
THANK YOU DOXIE MOM for the videos from this morning! Just took lunch at my desk and watched them both. Made my day. Just wish he would wake from this marathon nap before my lunch break is over!
I have a question for the moderator….I see on the news this morning that Xiao Liwu will go to china in a few years, do the handlers continue to bond with the pandas as they age? I can’t imagine how hard it is to let them go but how exicting to carry on the breeding program.
Moderator’s note: The Panda Team continues to work with each panda as long as that panda is here.
Baby has been asleep most of the day, has Bai missed him or looking for him?
Moderator’s note: She knows where he is. If she were concerned, she would wake him up.
He’s been asleep for five hours. Is this normal
Moderator’s note: Yes indeed.
And still asleep. He looks so peaceful. Watching him during the press session, he looked as if he was oblivious to the people there.
CBS/Charlie Rose gave a great presentation:
http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-505263_162-57562965/baby-panda-ready-for-san-diego-zoo-public-debut/
but google panda san diego zoo, click news and you’ll get all the news on our little gift, his mum and dad, and SDZ’s success!
Heres the link to my many photos taken today
Wu is so special and cute big “widdle boy”
he sure had fun ! where those “pink things” toys?
http://www.flickr.com/photos/sharonlower/sets/72157632476754921/with/8364548691/
Moderator’s note: Are you referring to the red leaf eater biscuits, Sharon?
Dear Moderator,
Do the leaf eater biscuits have a smell or taste appeal to Wu on their own or did he mouth them while on the log only because he has seen Bai eat the biscuits?
Moderator’s note: They are interesting to smell and mouth.
Can’t believe that he has been asleep for so long been watching him he looks so comfortable. I think when Yui Zi or Xiau Liwu goes to china it will be very heart breaking for the Panda team and for all of the panda followers. I myself will be very sad as I have watched both since they have been born. I can’t wait until June so I can visit.