Hungry Bear
Posted at 9:58 pm August 12, 2007 by Suzanne Hall
After fasting for nine days since the birth, giant panda Bai Yun has begun to eat small quantities of bamboo. She first came out to eat about 3:30 p.m. today, and only for a few brief minutes. In the five hours that followed, she came out for bamboo feedings four additional times, for a combined total of about 16 minutes spent feeding. The keeper staff has fortified her sun room with 2 kilograms (4.4 pounds) of fresh bamboo so that she can continue to fill her belly overnight.
There is other evidence that Bai Yun is beginning to come out of her postpartum slumber. I watched today as the keeper loaded that sun room with bamboo, and in the den Bai Yun lifted her head and listened. As soon as the keeper finished and opened the door to the sun room, Bai Yun got up and went out to feed. She is beginning to pay attention to the sounds around her again and is responding to activities around her in a positive manner. This stands in stark contrast to the early postpartum days in which we all watched her hunkered down in the den, oblivious to the outside world.
But these changes don’t interfere with her mothering instincts. On most of her forays from the den, the cub was quiet and rested in her absence. For one, however, the cub was very much awake, and after two minutes it complained with two loud squawks. Bai Yun heard them and returned to the den immediately to pick up her infant. A long grooming and soothing session followed.
Look for more activity in Bai Yun’s sun room and bedroom in the coming days. A mother knows she must take good care of herself in order to take good care of her infant!
Suzanne Hall is a senior research technician with the Giant Panda Unit of Applied Animal Ecology/San Diego Zoo.
Listen to Suzanne’s newest iZoofari Chat as she talks about the cub’s first week.
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August 13th, 2007 at 4:27 am
Thank you for a wonderful look at the cub about 4 a.m. your time this morning (I live in the Midwest). Bai Yun had left the den and you zeroed in on the adorable baby. It looks so much more like a panda in shape and coloring–and a well-fed little one at that. The leg area seems to be turning black, too. What a heartwarming sight to see its growth and changes. Maybe the cub is quieter because it can sense what an exceptional mother it has.
Thanks again for keeping us up to the minute on the baby and Bai’s progress.
August 13th, 2007 at 5:58 am
Glad to hear Bai Yun got her first meal in, does that mean the cub examinations will begin soon, when Bai Yun eats more often?
August 13th, 2007 at 6:44 am
Hi Suzanne – Enjoyed the Hungry Bear update. Yesterday afternoon I witnessed Bai lift her head, listen and after a short time leave the den, giving us viewers a chance to ooh and ahh over the adorable cub. After a short time Bai returned to the den. Bai carefully checked on her cub, then sat down next to the cub. Suddenly, Bai leans forward pulling in a bamboo branch. Bai started eating, while the cub slept beside her on the floor. It was the absolute cutest picture to view. Suzanne, if Bai decides to have this wonderful ” catering service” when will the Vet and staff get a chance to examine the cub if Bai decides to ” eat in” from now on?
Once again, many thanks to you and all the SDZ personnel for their long hours and devotion to all of God’s creatures
August 13th, 2007 at 6:50 am
I happened to be watching the panda cam at 3:30pm when Suzanne said Bai left her cub resting on the floor to go eat some bamboo…! It was so exciting to watch the little one lying quietly, waiting patiently for Mom to return, and to observe that he/she is thriving with Bai’s expert care!
Those of us fortunate enough to be viewing the cam then, were treated to seeing BrightStar/SweetPea/Cubmuffin without Bai being present; for me, it was a first, so many thanks to the staff at the SDZ for allowing us the opportunity to see this adorable cub!
August 13th, 2007 at 7:56 am
I have a question. How long will Bai Yun stay in the den with the cub? I know you keep track of the pandas progress. When is the time that the staff will do this?
It is so great to be able to watch the cub grow and watch Bai Yun’s interaction with her cub. As a teacher it is so great to be able to share this with my students. Thank you so much for providing this education experience for them.
August 13th, 2007 at 9:05 am
I love the way Bai Yun wiggles her toes when it appears the cub may be nursing. It makes me imagine how content she is with what she and her cub are doing at that moment.
August 13th, 2007 at 10:03 am
I saw the cub Saturday (well the top half)…it squirmed to get out of her hold but the rested for a few seconds and then tried again…this cub isn’t going to let any bamboo grow under its’ feet!!!!
Then Saturday night I was watching the news…and at the end was a precious shot of mom and baby. The baby was moving and mom was manipulating it to come lower to her neck..it was a great shoot…I taped it and I go back to watch it over again.
We are so lucky that we have a panda cam and very insightful staff etc that share with us…other wise we would only get information from books and just stare at bears eating bamboo….You have brought these beautiful, precious bears very up close and personal…thank you all at SDZ…we love you for that…and for the care and patience in their sucess at survival….
August 13th, 2007 at 10:12 am
THats great that she is eating!
I cant wait to see wut the cub is!
August 13th, 2007 at 10:25 am
Just out of curiosity, I went to the Zoo Atlanta site and did a bit of digging to refresh my memory on growth and development milestones. According to the time line I found, they were able to determine Mei Lan’s gender at 19 days, so it shouldn’t be much longer for our little one at SDZ. In the meantime, we should all enjoy those glimpses and close ups and prepare for lots of ” Aww…” moments to come.
August 13th, 2007 at 10:56 am
I’m so glad to hear that Bai Yun has started eating again! She definitely looks like she’s lost some weight/body mass in the last week or so. And, the cub views were outstanding over the weekend!! I spent a lot of time watching that little one squirming around on Bai’s arm as she slept. I guess as the cub grows hair and fattens up, it needs less body heat, so Bai doesn’t keep it so completely tucked under her chin anymore. And the licking sessions are hilarious, those two little legs dangling compliantly while Bai vigorously grooms her baby! This is just such fun and I am so grateful for the opportunity to watch it all happen. The cub is clearly eating plenty and growing like crazy! Another wonderful success for the SDZ panda team.
I have one question, though. We’ve seen quite a bit of Mei and Su Lin, but I have not caught any Gao Gao on the Panda Cam. What’s he up to these days?
August 13th, 2007 at 10:59 am
It’s really great to see that Bai Yun is slowly getting back to her normal routine. I enjoy watching her resting/sleeping with the cub in the palm of her front paw. She has again proven to be an excellent, loving, capable mother. I can’t wait to see the cub grown up big and strong!!!
August 13th, 2007 at 11:05 am
I am glad that Bai Yun has reached this next milestone of eating some. I personally cannot imagine taking care of an infant 24/7 for over a week without having anything to eat for yourself. But, that is why I am not a giant panda mommy.
I also was thrilled to see Bright Star shining gloriously (alone) when Bai left around 3:30 yesterday. This time I was able to email a few postcards to friends and family. I feel like I’m showing off my baby with email photos. I’m just so proud! What an accomplishment for panda-kind. Thanks for helping this all to happen, and for maintaining the web-site for us to get all these updates.
So, I guess the next thing is for Bai to leave the cub a bit longer so you can get your hands on him/her and let us know if we have a Bright Star or a Bright Starlet! I am waiting in eager anticipation! — Joy
August 13th, 2007 at 11:13 am
I FINALLY got to see the baby at 2:10 pm EDT. I was watching on 8/3 at the time she/he was born. I knew Bai Yun was in labor because of how restless she was. I have been watching from 8:30 am (etd) until 4:pm every day wanting so much to see this precious tiny thing. I’m so excited!!
August 13th, 2007 at 11:34 am
GREAT, GREAT shots this morning of Bai and baby – just amazing – it almost looks like it it growing right before my eyes. Good to see mom eating – I bet she was starving – and it’s nice that she has dinner delivered right to her doorstep. Bet she’s a good tipper! Way to go mom – you’ve got quite the active little one on your hands!
August 13th, 2007 at 12:26 pm
Some beautiful closeups of the baby recently. Brings me to tears at times. I did notice Bai listening this morning.
Have Su or Mei showed any reaction to the sound of the baby squawking?
August 13th, 2007 at 12:45 pm
I watched at the right time today. The baby looks so content and healthy.
I have a question for you – since Bai Yun has produced 4 babies while in San Diego and since she is getting on in years is there any chance that China would ” gift” her to SDZ and the second half of the question – if they did, would SDZ accept. I am sure all the pandaholics would appreciate a response to this. I know it is only hypothetical but you have done so much and I am sure will do so much more in the coming years.
August 13th, 2007 at 4:41 pm
i am in the uk, so there is a bit of time difference, but have been watching mum and baby,it is wonderful to see what a fantastic mother bai is,thank you all for the time,you are working, and for letting us share this joy with you.
August 13th, 2007 at 6:27 pm
Glad to see Bai is comfortable enough to leave her cub to eat at last. But missed the little one alone – agghhh – have to watch the panda cam 24/7 Hope to have news about the sex of Bright Star (seems to be the favorite name) – it seems looks healthy & well loved.
August 13th, 2007 at 7:17 pm
Oh my, I just the panda cam (10:10 pm) & there was Bright Star alone -looking bigger by the day – it was minute or 2 before Bai peeked out of her den to look at the big pile of bamboo & then carefully circled her cub before picking it up. Out little cubbie is starting to get the panda markings – this is too exciting – mamny, many thanks into the fascinting world of the pandas. Know why they are so beloved by the Chinese- we must do all we can to save them. Maureen
August 13th, 2007 at 7:23 pm
Oh my I just checked back & saw Bright Star alone for a minute or 2 who was squriming all over – I saw Bai peek out her den to look at a pile of bamboo & then carefully circle around before picking up the little one – can now see the black markings beginning to show – it sure is growing – no wonder the Chinese idolize these great animals – many thanks to the SDZ for all they are doing.
August 13th, 2007 at 9:25 pm
hi, me and my boyfriend love watching bai yun and her cub, we would really like to watch the cub more often especially when its nursing because it would look so cute, we hope to get a glimpse soon, also we were wondering why gao gao is almost never shown via cam =( he`s handsome
August 13th, 2007 at 10:22 pm
6.ooa.m. (UK time on 14/8) Up early and watching the lovely sight of mum and baby snuggled up. Many thanks to all concerned for this site. Have watched for a couple of years and it never fails to delight!!
August 13th, 2007 at 11:40 pm
It is so exciting to see the cub starting to show the black and white mark. Bai Yun is such a wonderful mother! Thanks SDZ for the great close up view of the cub.
August 14th, 2007 at 3:19 am
#16 Lee in Vancouver, I have no idea about the policy for panda in China, but there is a case in Japna that an offspring of a rental panda has been staying in its birthing place for more than 6 years. The zoo even expected a third generation to be borned there early this year. Unfortunately, the pregnancy was finally found a false one.
August 14th, 2007 at 5:06 am
What a joy this has brought me…I love going back each day to see how ” Bright Star” has changed/evolved. I love being able to see the eye patches and ears…it gives a better orientation as to how the cub is sitting on mom! SDZ Panda Team you ROCK!!! This is such a fantastic opportunity! Thank you again and again!!!
August 14th, 2007 at 6:15 am
THanks, Suzanne. At 6:08 AM(PDT) Monday, there was a good closeup of a resting Bai and a very much bigger cub moving around her forepaw. The coloration is very visible. I was struck by how much bigger the cub’s leg is from the first glimpses of it last week. The increased growth rate of the cub would correlate with Bai’s increased appetite and need to get frequent bamboo ” snacks.” As the cub continues to grow quickly in the next few weeks, it will be logical for Bai Yun to increase the frequency and length of her eating bouts.
August 14th, 2007 at 7:27 am
Bai just left for a minute and there was our Bright Star. Even from afar, you can really see the black markings showing up. It was much easier to spot the cub in the midst of the bamboo ” straw” bed than it was even a few days ago. I am so thrilled that this cub is thriving! Go Pandas! –Joy
August 14th, 2007 at 9:02 am
To those wondering about Gao Gao,
He is not on the cam these days because he is curently residing in an area of the facility that has very few cameras. He cannot be moved to another area of the facility at this time because doing so means he must pass by Bai Yun’s quarters, something we aren’t ready to do yet. You can be sure, however, that he is doing well and happily munches his bamboo each day.
August 14th, 2007 at 10:21 am
THanks Suzanne (#28) for the update on GaoGao. I am certain he is one happy papa panda with extra large piles of bamboo, and lots of time to rest and reflect on his interactions with his beautiful girl, Bai Yun. He does an admirable job as a breeding partner, and deserves a long rest out of the ” spotlight.”
How are the Howdy gate interactions going? I haven’t yet gotten to see one on the panda cam, or on the time-lapse video. Are you planning to let Mei Sheng and Su Lin interact in ” person” in the same enclosure like Mei Xiang and Tian Tian, or just through the window? Are they showing the same or more interest in checking each other out? Or, have they gotten accustomed to each other’s presence and it no longer intrigues them?
August 14th, 2007 at 11:20 am
Yes! I finally got to see Bright Star alone. He/she was very active. I imagine there was squawking, and the cub even rolled over before Bai returned and circled the den before picking it up. The cub is very healthy and it can’t be long now before the gender is known.
August 14th, 2007 at 11:26 am
a friend just phoned me and said guess where we are. well they were right in front of YA Ya and Le Le’s panda exhibit. Seems the took a detour on the way to the Elvis celabration. The zoo is beautiful and the pandas are georgeous. They never realized how endangered they were and they were excited to hear information given by the keepers about what is being done to save the species. I think we have another panda fan on our hands,but back to the main topic our cubbie, Bai seems so peaceful and relaxed even when the baby moves around. no work done today only cub watching.
August 14th, 2007 at 11:55 am
Just tuned in to see the cubbie alone in the den. What a fat belly! Mom’s doing a great job by the looks of that baby – of course, we all knew she would. The little one is really starting to look like a panda now and it looked like there were a few big yawns for all his/her admirers.
August 14th, 2007 at 4:09 pm
It just occured to me – that while Bai is trying to keep her peach-fuzz baby warm – she’s probably a bit uncomfortable being cooped up in her den – since it’s really warm here in SD these days. She is quite a dedicated and attentive mama – just wish she would eat and drink a bit more – but I know the time will come. Looking back at old blogs from when Su Lin was a baby – we might get our first vet update sometime next week – as Su Lin had her first exam at 2 weeks. I’m pretty excited about that – just another milestone in a very exciting year to come – watching our little cubbie grow up. I swear – if you stare at it long enough – it does seem to grow right before your eyes – just incredible!
August 14th, 2007 at 4:46 pm
Thank you all for the wonderful blog updates that help keep me informed of how the new baby is doing. Bai is a wonderful mother and wow her 4th baby — that is wonderful. Though I have been watching panda cams for a few years now, there is nothing like a new baby. Congratulations to all of you.
August 14th, 2007 at 8:01 pm
I’ve had some good glimpses of Bright Star today as Bai seems to know her cubbie is growing & can be alone for a couple of minutes. The precious one sure is growing – am anxious for it’s first exam. But you know accidents can still happen – The other day when I was on You Tube I saw Lun (ZA) fall off the climbing structure onto Mei who was 3-4 months old(this accident was never mentioned on the ZA update) – Mei was fine but when a 220 pound mommy accidenately sits or falls or cub it can be a disaster. Guess that why the Chinese don’t name their cubs until their 100 days old. But know Bai will be fine with our new cub.
August 14th, 2007 at 8:48 pm
Am seeing a great picture of ” Bright Star” snuggled under Bai chin – from this angle Star looks just like Bai- great work SDZ.
August 14th, 2007 at 9:41 pm
I was going through video and pictures from the 3rd of August to today. Boy has the panda cub grown just from last week! I can see really dark arms now, and those cute little black ears. I must remember to take more pictures because this cub is going to get alot bigger sooner, than later. I can’t help but giggle when I see Bai grooming the cub and it has its little feet in the air and is bouncing all over the place. What love I see in the pictures of Bai and the baby cub. I get so emotional, I even tear up reading the comments!
August 14th, 2007 at 11:58 pm
Hi! Haven’t written in a while because I’ve been very tired from getting my son ready for school this past week! I have been on the SDZ pandacam watching Bai and baby pretty much all week, and I finally was able to see the little guy by itself in the hay while Bai was out getting her snack. That baby is a squirmy one! I’ve noticed that the baby yawns every once in a while, and I actually did see those very tiny claws on the front feet! Neat!!! I also finally got a good long look at the cub today and noticed those famous black markings coming in; it’s a little more pronounced on the shoulders and front legs than on the back legs. The black markings on the back legs will catch up, tho. Plus, this cub has a fat tummy! Looks like he’s getting all the milk that Bai can give him, because he looks like a very well fed cub. The one thing that got me worried was when I got on the cam later this afternoon and watched Bai put her head on top of her cub, and I sure was hoping that the cub didn’t get squished. Another shot was when the cub was slowly sliding off of Bai’s big arm head first to the ground while Bai was sleeping! WOW!! A couple of heart stoppers for me, but I hope that Bai was alert enough to make sure that her baby was safe. I’m glad that Cindy (#9) got on the Atlanta Zoo website and got a good look at the panda cub timeline that they have on their panda page. It does give us a good insight on the milestones that Bai’s new cub will be making in the next several months. I hope that SDZ will be able to do something similar on their panda page real soon!
Mei Sheng will be 4 years old this coming Sunday! YEA!!! Can’t wait to see what the panda keepers are going to do to celebrate his birthday! It’ll be fun to watch on the pandacam!
Suzanne, did not see an update yesterday, Aug. 13, or today, Aug. 14. Looking for more updates from you about Bai and baby cub tomorrow! A few people have already picked out a name for this little guy—Bright Star! I love it! Now, how does that name translate into Chinese?? I guess we’ll find that out when the cub gets the name after 100 days! Will you have us vote for names on the website for the cub? Hope so! Bright Star is one suggestion for you to put on the list. Let us know, Suzanne, ok? You all are doing a great job as usual!! Oh yeah, you all; I almost forgot about this! I was watching the news on one of the cable news stations today, and Chengdu Reasearch Station had 4 baby pandas born on the same day just in the last day or two! Four in one day!! WOW!!! Those momma pandas have been busy! That’s great to hear, too! Four more to add to the panda population! Just pray that they all make it thru the first couple of weeks.
Will keep watching Bai and the baby cub on the pandacam!
Chari Mercier
St. Pete, FL
August 15th, 2007 at 5:24 am
I have been watching the Panda Cam through the windows vista sidebar for a few months now and have been totally wowed over today at how much we’ve seen of this wee cub! Ive been glued to it since 3am your time and seen some really good angles of the cub…sooo cute and tiny! I just looked up the zoos website just now and found out the cubs over a week old! I cant believe i missed the birth!
Keep up the great work San Diego Zoo!
August 15th, 2007 at 5:31 am
at app. 05.15am (SD) I have been watching Bai with her cub, what an energetic young boy/girl to cope with – it is a complete ‘wriggler’ who as always Bai controls with her amazing expertise.
When Bai holds the cub under her chin he/she has it’s mouth open, and legs and arms moving constantly.
It reminds me of the ‘Walking Hua Mei ‘ screensaver when she walks all over my screen – I am certain this tiny person wearing a mini ‘ Giant Panda coat’ will shortly be doing the same!
Thank you to all the veterinary staff and others who take such care of all the animals at SDZ, especially our wonderful Bai Yun and her cub…….
August 15th, 2007 at 10:05 am
Anybody who would like to see our little Panda cub, Atlanta- Georgia; here is the website: http://www.zooatlanta.org/animals_panda_cam.php4
Watching this cute little baby is fantastic and momma is doing so good. How fun to get to watch a new little one grow up! Our little Mei Lan, here at the Atlanta Zoo, will be 1 year old very soon.
August 15th, 2007 at 10:09 am
Thanks so much for the wonderful cam work, and the amazing work all the SDZ staff do for the pandas and for us! I am amazed every time I watch the new mom and cub (I think it’s a boy)…we are not just invited in for peeks at pandas but a window to the miracle of species survival…just incredible!
August 15th, 2007 at 12:26 pm
Can we have write-in votes for Bright Star. I think that name would win hand down.
August 15th, 2007 at 1:03 pm
Hi, Terry! Saw your comment about Mei Lan in Atlanta! I’ve been watching Mei Lan grow up over this past year myself, and she is just a beautiful sight to see. A lot of fun to watch, too! It’s hard to believe that a year ago, Mei was just as tiny as Bai’s cub is now! Thanks for letting us know about Mei and giving out the website address to your Atlanta Zoo. I’ve been reminding all of the panda fans about Mei’s upcoming birthday celebration on Sept. 6 at your zoo. Hope they get it on the pandacam live! Glad that you are enjoying watching Bai’s baby, too! It’s just amazing how fast these panda babies can grow, isn’t it? Well, gonna go and check in on Bai and baby again!
Chari Mercier
St. Pete, FL
August 15th, 2007 at 2:21 pm
some Chinese equivalents:
dou dou; dou zi; xiao dou dou = little pea; little bean
tian dou dou; tian dou zi = sweet little pea; sweet little bean
xing xing = star; little star
liang xing xing = bright star
ming xing = bright star; can also mean pop star or celebrity
jun nan; jun nan er; jun nan’r; mei nan; mei nan er; mei nan’r = studmuffin
xiao jun nan = cubmuffin
August 15th, 2007 at 3:37 pm
For all us pandalovers/pandaholics, etc…it would seem that ” everyone” should know about these most wonderful animals including the fact that they are critically endangered. Well, yesterday I took some business colleagues (visiting San Diego from various parts of the U.S.) to the SDZoo and I insisted that we make the Panda Conservation Station our first stop. We were fortunate to see Mei Sheng enjoying his dinner and it was then that my guests exclaimed that they had never seen a panda and never really knew much about them. Also at the panda station is a wonderful monitor showing pandacam and again, my guests were in awe when observing Bai Yun and cub. I am so thankful that I could share my love and respect (and obsession) with pandas by way of the San Diego Zoo and the collaborative/teamwork efforts with Wolong. I am confident that our visit helped educate a few more people about our precious pandas. Thank you CRES/San Diego Zoo!!
August 15th, 2007 at 3:42 pm
I just saw Gao Gao on the Panda cam munching on bamboo. But please tell me he has more space to walk or run around than that teeny room I saw him in.
August 15th, 2007 at 4:37 pm
What a joy to watch another precious panda cub begin it’s life’s journey, and to learn ever more from the wonderful staff at SDZoo. I must concur with KC at being taken back a bit about seeing Gao Gao in what appears on camera to be a somewhat bland space. I do hope he has access to something more stimulating while he is not able to pass by Bai at this time.
August 15th, 2007 at 6:01 pm
Suzanne,
Is Mei Sheng a righty like his mom, and Su Lin a lefty like her dad?
August 15th, 2007 at 6:45 pm
Know everyone is busy with the panda cub watch but am desperate for an update on how Bai & our Bright Star are doing. Thanks again for all you do.
August 15th, 2007 at 7:07 pm
Really would like an update on the pandas at SDZ. Catching the panda cam whenever I can!
Thanks!
August 15th, 2007 at 7:44 pm
ive been watching videos of su lins past birthdays and i was wondering if mei sheng gets a birthday celebration because there werent any of him. ive been glued to the panda cam and its the first time ive watched a cub grow on panda cam and its wonderful how bai yun treats her cub and ive noticed how she moves her foot its so cute
August 15th, 2007 at 8:53 pm
must admit i’m always checking in daily to read the blogs and see the goings on on the panda cam. i’m on the east coast (d.c. area) and was a liitle disappointed that our panda didn’t give birth this year. i was checking both in 2005. how exciting it is to see Bai Yun and her fourth cub. i found out last night after doing some searching that Bai Yun first cub Hua Mei, gave birth to her THIRD set of twins on the 17th of July. she sure is doing her part to help enlarge the giant panda population, 6 cubs in 3years. YOU GO GIRL! just curious has to why you haven’t updated readers on this in your blogs or Hua Meis profile. i’ll stay tuned. p.s. i’ve added Wolong to my favorites now too.
August 15th, 2007 at 9:29 pm
I have only been watching Bai Yun for less than 3 minutes, and I have already seen a lot of actions and changes! Bai Yun was licking the cub, and her tongue seems gigantic compared to the cub! It almost appears that the cub is the size of her tongue, big enough for her to swallow it whole!!!
On the other hand, the black-and-white markings on the cub is becoming more and more apparent and distinct by the day. Under the wonderful care of Bai Yun, the cub is indeed growing bigger and healthy!
August 16th, 2007 at 1:26 am
” Our” little cub seems to be thriving with all her mom’s good care. I love to see the baby peek out from under Bai Yun’s chin or her paw. She’s so careful when she moves around for such a large animal. Isn’t it wonderful how Mother Nature arranges things?!
We’re learned so much watching the other cubs and from the blogs that Suzanne and other staff members write. This window on the panda world, with a cub as the new star, is a lovely place to be and I’m looking forward to seeing each new step, with even greater appreciation for how difficult it must be for a mother panda to raise a cub in the wild.
Perhaps Bai Yun understands that she doesn’t have to search for bamboo or water and is able to concentrate on the cub, resting herself and making nourishing milk. The little one seems to have such a calm personality and looks quite content, even when mom leaves for a few minutes. What a little sweetheart!!!
August 16th, 2007 at 1:47 am
I am totally hooked…please give us any update on our beautiful pandas….thanks much
August 16th, 2007 at 4:28 am
P Wong – Thanks for the transations for us! Now we know what Gao Gao’s nickname (Studmuffin) is in Chinese! Cubmuffin makes me chuckle every time!
I’m thinking we should know by the end of the weekend what our cubbie actually is. All previous 1st time physicals were done at about the 2 week mark. Bai is very relaxed after all her experience and I’m sure it will happen very soon.
August 16th, 2007 at 7:07 am
HI Everybody, Even though I am still a newborn my mon has been telling me stories about who I am and how much I mean to our species. She said I am a Panda and that my true home is in China. She told me that I have 2 sisters and 1 brother, and he is going home to China soon. I have 6 cousins there also.I love my mom she keeps me warm and safe and feeds me very well,that’s why I have a fat belly.Mom says the Panda King spirit tells her all the wonderful things that people say about us and how much we are loved. Mon has told me about Mr. P Wong and his interviews and Miss Pamela G who writes beautiful poems about us, mom explains all of this so I understand. Then there is Miss Magaret who is very wise and asks important questions about things.My mothers says Suzanne and all the caretakers are very special people who take good care of us. well it’s time to eat, I have to grow so I am able to come out and meet everyone Thankyou for all the beautifulmames I love them all
Love to all
Bright Star/Sweet Pea/ Cubmuffin/Cubbie
August 16th, 2007 at 10:57 am
ackkkkk — experiencing withdrawal symptoms here! Hope to see you soon…..
August 16th, 2007 at 12:27 pm
KC #47 I believe you probably saw GaoGao in his ” bedroom.” If he is still in the same outdoor area ” backstage” he has a large outdoor area without camera access.
I am honored to me mentioned by Bright Star #58 as being ” wise” and ” asking important questions about things.”
As #46 Diana said, everyone needs to be educated about all things Panda as they are the ” symbol” of worldwide species conservation efforts. It is easy for me, and probably many Pandaholics, to think that the public know more about pandas, and endangered animals, than they really do. When I talked to people at the NZP (Washington DC) and at ZA (Atlanta) and other places I have travelled recently, they are very surprised at the information I share with them. Most of it I have learned from these price-less (huge value to me) informational blogs and the information I have read on various zoos’ webpages. I get very angry when I read people criticizing the SDZ and WAP for ” non-scientific” writing and information. This is not white papers, they are speaking with lay people who have limited background in zoology and in endangered animals in particular. I appreciate the great effort that is put forth to enlighten us, and to educate us, so we can ” spread the word” to those around us when we have the chance, as #46 Diana did so well.
Thanks to all Zookeepers and Curators worldwide for caring for our price-less treasure of animals intrusted to human care to perpetuate their species. Without human intervention in a positive way, they will perish and we will have a planet with no one left but humans who can’t get along and have no where to move because there are so many other humans ” in the way.”
” liang xing xing” is a shining example how humans can work together, and with endangered animals, to make a positive difference in a declining population. May he/she continue to shine as their half-sister Hua Mei is doing to provide more pandas to help continue the species survival and to teach humans as much as possible about their biology, breeding, habitat, behaviors, etc. that are necessary to make their China panda home a place where wild pandas will continue to live and thrive.
August 16th, 2007 at 12:41 pm
Oh dear, I hope the power outage didn’t take out our Pandas’ air conditioning.
August 16th, 2007 at 1:24 pm
What a wonder to watch the little things that Bai or our little cubbie does that was different from the others, It seem that Bai senses the amount of time each cub needs and to what degree the cub will tolerate being alone for a certain amount of time so that Bai can eat. I have this strange feeling that this cub is going to out do the others in certain time lines.
August 16th, 2007 at 2:06 pm
Thank goodness the cam is up & running; I thought there might be an epidemic of pandaholic breakdowns all over the world, if we could not get our glimpses of the little one today!
Right now at 5:00pm (EST) Bai is doing a wonderful job of hiding her cub, but yesterday’s views of he/she were incredible, and he/she is growing well & seems content…! I think we are all eagerly anticipating the first vet exam, when we will know for sure whether it is a boy or a girl…! (Thanks, P. Wong for the Chinese translations of the nicknames panda lovers have been giving to the cub…they are perfect!)
August 16th, 2007 at 2:19 pm
The little one seems to be growing at an incredible speed everyday.
I enjoy seeing the big one running around the yard at night. The evening watering in his yard seems to excite him a lot. He always manages to steal the show from his younger siblings.
August 16th, 2007 at 2:24 pm
At 2:20 PM PDT, little cubbie is quite cute and content sleeping on mom Bai Yun’s for leg. It sure has grown in 2 weeks, and has very distinct saddle and white area on its back. If I am not mistaken the white ” v” pattern made by the saddle resembles that of Bai Yun herself. It is how I can distinquish her from the other adult pandas on the camera when I was not sure who was in what yard.
She looks so peaceful and unstressed, just like she was resting prior to the birth. Only this time, she seems even more peaceful because the birth is behind her and the cub is thriving and is a well mannered and great tempered offspring. I am curious to see them interact as the cub grows and is awake and more alert.
August 16th, 2007 at 3:34 pm
It is 3:33 California time. I just love the Bai Yun teases us. She will give us all great peek a boos at the baby. Then its like ok shows over for now.
August 16th, 2007 at 3:53 pm
I have a question — Got an excellent view of our little cub resting under Bai’s chin at 3:05 PM today. I noticed the cub has a long, thin tail. I’m curious, has anyone ever researched the reason why a panda’s tail at birth is long and thin and then gradually changes to short and flat as the panda grows? Also, does this happen to any other animals? By the way, great close-up. Thank you. Rose N.
August 16th, 2007 at 5:44 pm
Has anyone calculated the time to the naming ceremony. I believe it should be around Nov. 11th.
K
August 16th, 2007 at 7:17 pm
Thank goodness the panda cam up back – just got home & what a great shot Bright Star – our little cubbie is growing by leaps & bounds-am waiting anxiously for the first exam.
August 16th, 2007 at 8:04 pm
Rose #67 – think I read on of of the panda updates that cubs grow over their tail-took it mean while born with a long tail as the panda grows the body grows over part of the tail. Another interesting thing about these amazing animals
August 16th, 2007 at 11:20 pm
Congrats and best wishes to SDZ on the birth of the giant panda cub — and such a good mom to watch with her new baby — I am still amazzzzzed at how small a creature the panda is at birth — really not even as big as mom’s paw and how fast they do grow — thanks you all so much for letting the world see all the daily happenings – ( I’m sure panda cam was invented by a genious – please send my thanks to them ) this nures from Iowa is sending a big kiss and hug to mom and baby please tell them — Joy P
August 17th, 2007 at 1:50 am
Another landmark…Bai’s cub is 14 days old today.
Before 01.00am (SD) Bai permitted lengthy viewing of her growing baby boy/girl who is still an energetic ‘wriggler’ (wiggle).
As always Bai had her baby under control while she undertook a lengthy session of ‘topping and tailing’ the cub to ensure it is clean and urinates – she is such a pleasure to watch while she undertakes the grooming procedure.
Bai appears very happy and relaxed with her baby…….. I expect her ‘first’ son (will this be the second?) will have a good time on Sunday the 19th, when he will be 4 years old……..how time flies.
Thank you to all staff at SDZ who care for Bai and ensure the Panda Cam supplies us with endless pleasure
August 17th, 2007 at 5:58 am
whoo hoooo — it’s 8:58am here in Georgia – and on the panda cam is a close up of the baby. What a great way to start the day. THank you.
August 17th, 2007 at 7:44 am
I’ve been enjoying my morning cup of coffee and watching a beautiful shot of Bai Yun and her cub. Can see the tiny black ears and black shoulders of our little one. I would love our new cub to be named ” Star of Hope” . Bai Yun is a fantastic mom and has produced wonderful offspring that will breed, giving hope that eventually these beautiful bears will no longer be extinct.
August 17th, 2007 at 8:31 am
I think this cub is a girl because I think I remember reading that the girl cubs were often quieter that the boy cubs.
August 17th, 2007 at 8:38 am
Thanks Maureen #70 for clearing up this truly interesting part of panda development. Mother Nature is truly full of surprises! Rose N.
August 17th, 2007 at 9:10 am
Oh my, how that little one has grown in such a short while! This is my 3rd baby panda watch at SDZ…I will never ever get over the loving care of Bai Yun for each of her cubs. She is just beautiful…so tender and loving…a complete joy to watch.
Thank each and every one of you at SDZ for allowing us to be a part of these wonderful lives. It is so much appreciated by all, I am sure.
August 17th, 2007 at 9:47 am
During my relocation from Hungary to Austria last week I had no access to Internet, i. e. the panda cam and – believe me – suffered truly from withdrawal symptoms as you pandaholics will be able to imagine. Thank goodness it is ok now and I was so thankful to recap my missed panda sessions on the time lapse video, marvellous. Bright Star is my first panda cub to keep track off (I started watching Su Lin at the age of 1 1/2 years) and I am thrilled to be able to watch every little ” step” of her development. I was astonished to see that her (sorry, may be his) markings are becoming more distinct by the day. This morning at our time in Europe I had wonderful glimpses of the baby wriggling in Bai Yun’s forearm. Bai Yun looked so peaceful and happy with her baby having a nap well deserved. The little one was extremely active opening her (his) tiny mouth and moving her legs. It was such a heartwarming picture!
Margret # 60 I could not agree more with you. We owe all the dedicated zoo keepers all over the world so much. I do not want to imagine our planet without animals. Humans will never get extinct, that’s for sure. But it is up to us human beings to preserve our precious fauna and flora. And without human help and dedication, nowadays on our overcrowded planet, there would be very little space left for those creatures that were here long before us. Whenever there is a chance to ” educate” ignorant people relating to those beautiful pandas, let’s do it. The more they get to know the greater the chance that they will support the scheme. I have not yet come across anybody who is not totally mesmerised by the panda’s charm and cute face!
Happy birthday to Mei Sheng! I feel sad when thinking of his leaving for China soon. But I know it is in the interest of the whole panda population.
Furtheron good luck with Bai Yun’s baby and thank you for all the informative blogs of all of you at SDZ and the pandaholics
August 17th, 2007 at 10:54 am
I have been away from my computer for a few days, and ” Bright Star” has really grown just in that time! Bai Yun is making such good milk. Eagerly awaiting the announcement of the gender so we can finally get the right spelling for our Bright Star Cubmuffin. –Joy
August 17th, 2007 at 11:09 am
As someone who has watched the PandaCam from Day 1, I am constantly amazed at Bai Yun’s growth as a mother and her adapting to the needs of each of her four cubs. Now if someone could read a panda mom’s mind and distill her wisdom in print, I, for one, would be eager to read it. She has and is raising four distinct panda individuals, each one special in her or his own way. Can’t wait to see how cublet develops its personality. Thanks to SDZ for all your efforts. We appreciate you very much.
August 17th, 2007 at 11:09 am
I too want to thank everyone at SDZ for all the hard work and dedication. I desperately want to go to San Diego to see the pandas. I am going to China on business in late October and am contemplating a side trip to Wolong Reserve. Will Mei Sheng be in quarantine when he arrives there? How long would he be isolated if that is the case? Any information you could give would be appreciated.
It is wonderful to log onto this site and see the ” baby” progressing. I am hoping for a boy!!
August 17th, 2007 at 11:59 am
I’m enjoying all the wonderful information you furnish. Wish we had a picture of New Baby on Panda Cameras, Meet the panda!
August 17th, 2007 at 12:29 pm
I’ve followed several cubs on Pandacams, but never from the very beginning, and I’m having a wonderful time watching Bai Yun tenderly care for this new baby. How wonderful that we have so many chances to see the little one wriggle around and show us how he/she is growing!
August 17th, 2007 at 1:22 pm
Thank you for such a wonderful learning experience, that is available to so many via the pandacam. It is great to see comments from people who live in countries all over the globe. Especially precious are the statements from students and young children. Best Wishes from Texas.
August 17th, 2007 at 1:32 pm
Can we have some new panda blogs PLEASE???!!! It has been 5 whole days!! We are dying here!! When will the cub have it’s 1st exam?
Moderator’s note: Suzanne will try to write one tonight. In the meantime, listen to Suzanne discussing the cub’s first week on an iZoofari Chat: http://www.sandiegozoo.org/wordpress2/category/izoofari-chats/
August 17th, 2007 at 3:38 pm
I just had a thought while watching mom and baby sleeping. It’s interesting that pandas become solitary when they get older – because watching Bai and her cub – she is in constant contact with her little one. Although I understand that she needs to keep baby warm – since it has very little fur – and that the cub is also blind – but you would think that the constant attention would imprint that need for ” touch and companionship” when a panda gets older. But I do remember reading that part of the reason pandas are solitary is because they are in competition for food – but it still seems odd to me – given how cuddled and played with they are when they are little cubs. I just wonder if deep down they get lonely when they get older…
August 17th, 2007 at 3:40 pm
I am noticing the cub’s markings have really darkened. What a sight to witness these miraculous changes. A question I have: are the cub’s every movement also recorded or charted? I know Bai Yun’s activities are documented but don’t know if staff also keep track of the many yawns, wiggles, or yelps from the adorable cub.
)
Thanks
August 17th, 2007 at 4:02 pm
Just finished listening to the latest IZoofari chat with Suzanne. Thank you, Suzanne and everyone else, for taking the time from your hectic schedules to discuss the cub’s progress at such length. One item I found especially interesting was the den life of other bears as compared to pandas.
Bai Yun and her baby are a joy to watch–any time of the day or night. The cub really seems to be growing and moving a lot. Watching our little Star cuddle in its mother’s arms is mesmerizing. Also, I wondered if the reason adult pandas like to rest with their heads hanging way down is that as cubs they seem to be lying in that position on the mother’s arm and turned upside down and all around during grooming.
Thanks again for all you do for the pandas and us panda lovers.
August 17th, 2007 at 4:11 pm
Hi Everyone – Just listened to Suzanne’s chat on iZoofari — #85 – Moderator’s note – It answers many of our questions. Check it out – it’s very informative.
Rose N.
August 17th, 2007 at 6:42 pm
What a way to wake up and turn on the SDZ Panda Site at 6:12 this morning! There was Bai allowing her adoring fans to see Little One in full view! Click! Thank You all so much for the postcard photo opportunity! The baby was ‘on view’ each time I checked this late afternoon…I did have to work..Bai is being so generous in sharing her newborn with us all! Then this afternoon, the great photo of Bai holding her baby with lots of light in the den made my day! It seemed to say it all..Momma and Cub the Official Photo!
I have a question. After listening to the interview with Suzanne, I know you all are tracking the nursing time. I think this week (week 2) the time appears to be longer. How long does each session appear to last? Bai is certainly more alert and actually seems to be nudging baby in the right location:) This baby seems to be as peaceful as its momma. Honestly, today I swear they both smiled! A Lot!
I cannot tell you how much the opportunity to see this Panda Love means to me! Thank s to
all of YOU for making this possible!
yes! Also,I think the Name Bright Star is excellent! Is there going to be an official 100 Day naming contest as they did with Tai Shan?
With a Joy-filled heart, I thank YOU ALL!
Sincerely,
Bobbie Wood
August 17th, 2007 at 6:55 pm
I also just listened to Suzanne on i Zoofari – she answered most every question we all have – seems there was some concern the first few days because this cub is so quiet & as they cannot usually see the cubbie they rely on squeals to jugde how cubs are doing – but it’s obvious now that our cubbie is fine & progessing nicely.
August 17th, 2007 at 7:52 pm
Congratulations Meerkats on the quick camera action this evening at 6:15 PM capturing three different camera angles of Bai & Cub over and over. First C 13: baby panda nestled in the hay on den floor (looking sweet, adorable and content); then C 11: Bai Yun eating bamboo with her back towards the camera; then onto C 17: a front view of Bai showing her sitting on doorstep facing the outside yard enclosure. This continued until Bai returned to the cub for some cuddle time. Very enjoyable. Thanks again Meerkats for your expert camera work. Rose N.
September 13th, 2007 at 12:06 pm
Love viewing the other pandas!!
Vet Exam Today? I think we ALL are
awaiting news of a girl or boy? Its
healthy and growing so fast!
Bai Yun is such a loving mom…
Thanks for the Cam Closeups too!
Love, Sharon