Mei Sheng: First Night in China
Posted at 12:01 pm November 23, 2007 by Lisa MartinGiant panda Mei Sheng moved to Wolong, China on November 5, 2007. Lisa Bryant of the San Diego Zoo accompanied him on his journey and is sharing the trip with us through blog installments. See Lisa’s previous blog, Mei Sheng, Our Precious Cargo.
Happy Thanksgiving, everyone. I was so surprised to hear from so many panda fans. I consider myself a bit of a “compu-phobe.” That is, I do what I need to on the computer: nothing more, nothing less. I was touched to know our pandas have such a genuine following in all of you. It was great to know how many well wishes for a safe and uneventful trip were sent our way. Thank you.
Now, where did I leave off? Right, landing in Shanghai, China! It had been a long journey from the airport in Los Angeles to Shanghai: 20-plus hours if you consider crossing the date line. Mei Sheng was as calm upon landing as he had been in flight. Like a good veterinarian, Dr. Morris had brought with him a prescription that could be administered to Mei Sheng in the event that he began to show signs of stress. It could be mixed into honey and be hand fed to him. “Happy honey,” as he referred to it; a little something to take the edge off of any anxiety-causing scenarios for an animal. We never had to use it, and Dr. Morris had not anticipated needing it for such a well adjusted, young, and healthy animal for this transport. I, on the other hand, found myself more anxious than Mei Sheng in many instances. He turned out to be my “happy honey” with how well he responded to so many new exposures. Just prior to landing he had another snack and some more water, which was a good thing because the fun was just beginning. Upon the plane’s docking the cargo door was opened. The plane crew and airport crew exchanged niceties while Chinese customs officials were boarding. Not far behind them…the media. Dr. Morris handed over the necessary documents to the appropriate officers. I interpreted the exchange to mean our sweet boy was now China’s responsibility. I expected he’d be whisked away to facilities out of our access. I was pleasantly surprised that this was not the case.
The officials, the media, and, I’m guessing, a VIP or two sprinkled among the group, had obviously been waiting as anxiously for Mei Sheng’s safe arrival as we had. Dr. Morris and officials looked into Sheng’s crate. As people approached and looked in at him he peered out at them likewise. I didn’t expect so much media attention so soon but they were eager to share with their audience how their most recent participant in giant panda conservation handled the trip. Reminiscent of the very questions all of you bloggers had, they shared in kind: How is Mei Sheng doing? How and what did he do in flight? Was he comfy? In addition, they asked, “How will the people in San Diego feel about his departure?” Just goes to show we are not so different in our concern for the animals in our charge.
Once again Sheng relieved any of my anxiety that may have resurfaced with the surge of people now sharing the cargo hold with us. If I had to guess what he was thinking about all this, it would be “wonder what all the fuss is about.” Oblivious that he was the center of attention, his transport pallet started moving slowly through the hold to the elevator toward Chinese terra firma. Of course, the media were waiting. Dr. Morris thought there might have been fewer media present for Sheng than for Hua Mei’s arrival. Changes in security measures apparently reduced the numbers allowed onto the tarmac. This was just fine with me because it looked like plenty in my eyes. A very long red banner about 16 feet long was unfurled. Written in Chinese characters was a welcome home message meant for our boy. It read “Welcome Mei Sheng Home Ceremony.” Meanwhile Sheng and his luggage were being trailered away from the tarmac in preparation for his sleepover in Shanghai. Still he sat awake in his crate watching all the buzz. Once in the transport vehicle we had one more media pit stop to make and that is where all the rest of the media cameras, reporters, and newspapers were waiting their chance to ask the burning questions about Mei Sheng’s trip.
Finally on our way, we drove about 30 minutes to Shanghai’s equivalent of the San Diego Zoo’s Wild Animal Park. Dr. Desheng, the veterinarian at Wolong’s panda research facility, would meet us there. It was dark, but we could tell it was a very large park. The buses and vans parked in the parking lot made it apparent that was how guests toured this large facility. Mei Sheng was spending the night in one of the empty holding pens near the hospital. In the morning, we needed to board a three-hour flight to Chengdu. From there, the last leg of the journey would be a four-hour drive to Wolong.
Another forklift ride to the building and manpower got him secured into the bedroom. That is where I met Scott. Scott was going to be Mei Sheng’s keeper once he got to Wolong. It was comforting that he had come so early in the journey to meet Sheng, observe his behaviors, and let Mei Sheng see him with me. The room felt small with Sheng’s crate, me, Scott, vets, and officials. All of Sheng’s luggage made the trip, so we thought it a good opportunity to offer him more biscuits, some apple, more water, and bamboo, which he hadn’t had since Los Angeles. Everything was going swimmingly until Scott and I lowered some bamboo through the top access door of his crate. Well! Apparently one of the bamboo pieces must have poked him because it startled him. I have never seen Mei Sheng be an aggressive animal, but let me tell you: our sweet, gentle-natured panda turned into a big male panda before my eyes. He barked at us, swept his paw across the crate floor, jaw chomped, and gave a good lunge toward the front of the crate as if to say, anthropomorphically again, “Look, it’s been a long day and I’m tired of you people.” I don’t think it a stretch to say he was probably just as tired as the rest of us. By this time we were all staring an almost 30-hour day in the face. We gave him the space he needed. We cleared out of the building, leaving him with his rations for the night. We kind of lingered just outside the building door long enough to ensure that he had quieted down. We wanted to make sure he was comforted and not agitated by the solitude before we ourselves could turn in for the night. I think it was just what he needed following so much hoopla. We didn’t hear another peep. He had been such a champion this whole time, who could blame a fella for one justifiable outburst?
As surprising as it was to watch Sheng, he did not exhibit an abnormal behavior. It wasn’t even worthy of a “happy honey” consideration. He had turned in for the night as we were about to. Good thing too, because we needed to be back at the facility at 5:30 a.m. to transfer Mei Sheng into a smaller crate that would fit onto the plane to Chengdu. Maybe he’d go in easily. Maybe he wouldn’t. For now it was time for him (and us!) to rest. Our journey only half-way finished would continue in a few short hours, so we said good night.
Lisa Bryant is a team area lead at the San Diego Zoo. She will share more about her journey in future blogs, as we want all the details!
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November 23rd, 2007 at 1:34 pm
Wow, that reaction by Mei Sheng was a shocker. Since he was so mellow during the flight, Lisa’s assumption about him being exhausted must be correct. I’m glad they did not use his ” happy honey” to calm him down. A good night sleep for everyone involved was probably the best decision.
Thank you, Lisa, again for another well written blog. I realize it took a lot of time on the keyboard for someone who is a compu-phobe, but your words describe the trip so vividly, it’s almost like being there on the journey with you. I can’t wait for the next installment!
November 23rd, 2007 at 2:23 pm
Lisa, thank you so much for your enlightening installment #2 of Mei Sheng’s arrival in China…!
After so many hours of being confined in a travel crate, then enduring all of the well-intentioned media & their flashbulbs, is it any wonder that he had a panda meltdown…? Although you were obviously surprised by this behavior, I’m sure all of you who traveled with him, were stressed from the long flight, too. It is a good thing that you were there early the next day to reassure him, as you began the next stage of his journey to Wolong, although doubt you got much sleep yourself, worrying about him!!
I’m sure I’m not alone in eagerly anticipating your next entry of Mei Sheng’s travel journal to Wolong, Lisa;
thank you for sharing your knowledge & expertise with pandaholics everywhere, who are concerned about Mei Sheng’s new life in China.
November 23rd, 2007 at 2:29 pm
Thank you for all the details and letting us know how Mei Sheng did on his journey. I’m looking forward to more details!
November 23rd, 2007 at 2:37 pm
The story of Mei Sheng’s journey is so fascinating. Thank you, Lisa, for sharing with us. He is really a champ to go through all he did so peacefully. I’m sure, as sweet-natured as he is, it wasn’t surprising that he showed a bit of temper at being poked. After all, there’s only so much a panda should have to put up with in one day! I appreciate how difficult this must have been for you. I’m sure you were worried that he had too much new stuff to deal with in one day. I’m on pins and needles waiting for the next installment.
November 23rd, 2007 at 4:23 pm
Thanks Lisa. Looking forward to hearing more!
November 23rd, 2007 at 5:13 pm
Hey, haven’t we all been a little snappy after a long flight. A little jet lag perhaps! But bravo, once again to Sheng and his fabulous keepers. Keep us informed. Thanks!
November 23rd, 2007 at 5:13 pm
The saga continues! How wonderful to read of your journey, thanks so much for sharing with us. I cannot even imagine how stressful & nerve-wracking it would be, you are a true pro not to need any ” happy honey” !
November 23rd, 2007 at 5:47 pm
Lisa it’s sooo awesome to hear all about the concern for Sheng during his trip. I never doubted that he would be given the very best of care as he made his way to his new home. I am so proud of our boy and how he handled the many changes that took place during those hours of travel.
What a testiment to the work of all the keepers and caregivers he had in San Diego.
And how nice it is to hear that people in China had the same concerns for his well-being and questions about his comfort during transport. He is such a special animal and I am sure he will continue to touch the lives of ALL who come in contact with him, no matter where he lives.
Thanks for taking our precious son to his new home!
Love, Joy
November 23rd, 2007 at 5:50 pm
These blogs are just fantastic. We all care very much about Mei Sheng as he begins his new life in China. I’m sure many of us believe that animals can understand us so that leads to the question of how Mei Sheng will react to being spoken to in Chinese. I’m sure he will feel the love and concern they have for him and that little outburst mentioned came as you said at the end of a long trip plus getting poked is no fun accidental or not and he let his displeasure be known. It would have been unusual not to react.
Are we the only zoo so far giving back pandas? I would assume that it will be time soon for Washington’s panda to go and I know they are dismayed that they haven’t been able to get another cub as yet. I know we can all agree that no matter where the cub is their departure is felt deeply. I have yet to meet anyone who isn’t touched by just the sight of that black and white bear.
They are magic you know. I look at Bai Yun and baby regularly and my stress level drops instantly at work. We are all watching as well to see when the baby decides to get up and really walk. I find myself cheering her on when she tries to get those back legs going.
Now we are waiting for the name ceremony. I have my favorite name as I’m sure everyone else does.
November 23rd, 2007 at 6:12 pm
” Happy Honey” — ha, ha, ha — I LOVE it!
November 23rd, 2007 at 6:39 pm
Lisa – thanks so much for the second installment of Mei’s trip – your attention to the deatails make us feel like we were there. Obviously Wolong sent his keeper to meet Mei while you were still with him. They want a happy, stress free panda. I was surprised, though, when I read Mai had not been fed any bamboo during the long flight. In reading about LeLe & YaYa’s (Memphis zoo) flight from China, they were given bamboo the whole time. Was delighted to read that Mei finally had enough of all the excitment & showed some good old USA spunk. Am now waiting for your installment – does he get into his crate when asked or not?? and the final arrival in Wolong & your impressions from there. Again many thanks for all your hard work, dedication & love & most of all for letting us know about his journey
November 23rd, 2007 at 7:13 pm
Hi, I love reading about your beautiful bears. As I am looking at the web cam (C14) I can not figure if I am looking at the baby or at the mom. Are all Pandas marked exactly the same way? It looks like there is not much variation in the location of the black areas and I was just curious.
Thank you Lisa for your chronicles, you must love your job. I can not imagine how cute the little cubs must be.
Have a safe journey.
November 23rd, 2007 at 7:22 pm
Hi, Lisa! WOW!!! You all had a trip and a half, didn’t you? I think Mei Sheng’s outburst was just that–an outburst! He was showing everybody that he was very tired from the long flight, and he just let you all know that in his own way! At least that little bit of angry didn’t last very long. He knew you all were not going to harm him in any way, but he just wanted his space. I guess pandas do have a little bit of jet lag after all!! The main thing is that he got thru the first 20 plus hours in pretty good shape, didn’t really show any unusual agitiation or anxiety during the flight, and all he wanted to do was SLEEP!! Hope all of you humans get some sleep as well. Can’t wait for part three of this story to come out—the big trip to Wolong! That’ll be interesting!
Well, gonna go. Had a good Thanksgiving with family, but feeling the effects of it now. Looking forward for part 3!
Chari Mercier
St. Pete, FL
November 23rd, 2007 at 7:23 pm
You may be a ” compu-phobe,” Lisa, but you are a very fine writer! Thank you for such vivid detail; I felt I was right there with you as our boy made his ” nearly” smooth transition to his new world. I’m looking forward eagerly to your next installment. Will you have pictures to share with us, or perhaps in a Zoonooz article later on? Sure hope so!
November 23rd, 2007 at 7:44 pm
Lisa, In my book, Mei Sheng would have been justified if he totally freaked out. After all, he was away from the only home he’s every known. I would have favored sedation (not just happy honey) to spare him from an overly frightening experience if it had been needed. I think, if the situation were reversed, the SDZ would have transferred a newly arrived panda during the dead of night and with no media fanfare to spare the animal from stress. I’m glad that the Chinese gave Mei Sheng a big welcome, however. It’s good to know that he is valued there and will be well taken care of.
November 23rd, 2007 at 8:23 pm
I’m glad all went weel for Mei. I wish he wasn’t subjected to what sounds like a real onslaught of media after such a long trip.
Thank you for your great wrok, Lisa!
November 23rd, 2007 at 8:37 pm
Wow, what a journey! This was fascinating to read. I feel like I am right there with Mei Sheng and the panda team. I love reading about this darling boy. I can’t wait for the next blog.
November 23rd, 2007 at 8:49 pm
Here’s another tear jerking tribute to Mei Sheng on youtube – see him with Su lin at the HowdyGate
” Mei Sheng returns to his ancestral homeland” If you get to this there also should be videos of his arrival in China and also Wolong. Enjoy
November 23rd, 2007 at 8:55 pm
Thank you again, Lisa. It must have been quite a shock to see sweet Mei Sheng exhibit a little tantrum, but who could blame him — he must have been exhausted by the long trip and the commotion. I am sure you and all of his fellow travelers were tired, too. Glad to hear he quieted down – and probably had a good sleep before the next big adventure to come. It was quite a journey for all of you, and it is good to hear more of the story. Many thanks.
Helen
November 23rd, 2007 at 9:28 pm
I’m so happy that you are sharing the events of Mei Sheng’s trip! And I’m so glad it went so well. I have followed Tia Shan (National Zoo) from his birth thru the online camera, and have become enthralled with the interaction between mother and cub. So I have started following your newest arrival also. But I can’t imagine how hard it must be to send a cub you have seen since birth back to China. However, I know that is what’s important and I applaud all your hard work!!
Thanks so much for sharing with us.
Brenda
November 23rd, 2007 at 9:56 pm
Lisa, thank you, thank you for your wonderful updates! I can’t blame Mei Sheng either for being nippy. I can’t wait to hear more about his transition to his new home. Does Scott speak English and or does Mei understand Chinese? How are you handling not seeing Mei Sheng? Thank you for everything you do!
November 24th, 2007 at 12:12 am
Lisa, thanks so much for your fine diary~ it’s good to hear that most everything went so well with such a long journey! Looking forward to hearing more, and also wondering if you were able to see Hua Mei-if any of our San Diego keepers have been able to visit her over the past few years, does she seem to remember them? Thanks again for all you and your staff do.
November 24th, 2007 at 8:29 am
Thank you for Pt. 2 of Mei Sheng’s journey! It was exciting to hear all the details. You did a great job by telling us everything, making feel like we were there, which I wish, we were! LOL!
I will miss him dearly though. It must have been hard for you too! Don’t blame our sweet boy for being a bit grouchy though! He’s in a foreign land and with strangers. I can’t help but think that he must felt abandoned to some degree, wouldn’t you agree since all the SDZ folks are now gone from Wolong, people he’s familiar with since birth??? My heart breaks for him, really!
Has there been study in panda psyche? Do we know how they think and their intellectual levels and competencies? Would be interesting to know.
Thanks and blessings to you, Lisa! I guess it must have been neat going to Wolong!
November 24th, 2007 at 8:47 am
I think this was Mei Sheng’s way of saying ” I may be big, loveable, and cute, but if you poke me one more time, it’s gonna get ugly!” All things considered, he made it through his trip to China much better than I did when I went last year.
November 24th, 2007 at 9:13 am
Thanks for your wonderful updates! I feel like I am right there!!
And a happy holiday to everyone at SDZ. I am thankful for all that you do for the conservation of the species. It is beyond words how thrilling it is to watch the cams, and an honor too!
November 24th, 2007 at 10:28 am
Lisa, thank you so much for your wonderful two instalments which I appreciate very much. You have got a fine writing style enabling people to ” join” you on your trip with Mei Sheng. I could just picture Mei Sheng sitting in his crate and patiently waiting for things to come. The ” bamboo” incident shows that animals, after all, occasionally have got the same behaviour pattern like we human beings. Apart from jet lag, I guess, that he was just ” fed up” and wanted his peace. I cannot blame him since long-distance flights do put a lot of strain on ” living creatures” ! And on top of it all the well-meant attention of his hosts and the media people. However, I am so glad everything went so well and, needless to say, I am eagerly looking forward to your future blogs. Well done, Lisa, and thanks for all your TLC and dedication towards Mei Sheng.
November 24th, 2007 at 11:04 am
I love hearing that Sheng did well, all things considered. I may have eaten the happy honey for myself, as I would have been crying my eyes out!
November 24th, 2007 at 11:06 am
Another wonderful installment of your trip! Thanks again, Lisa! Of course, we love to hear from you about our 1st US born boy and your take on the trip! I know I was not the only one holding my breath until we got word that ALL arrived safely in China and back home!
Mei had every right to be a little snippy after such a long day and a half. I was worried that he may have experienced a much worse time on the trip. He always was Litle Mr. Sensitive from everything I’ve read and heard of him.
We will be anxious to hear the next installment of your trip!
Only TWO days until our newest girl is named!
November 24th, 2007 at 11:46 am
Thanks for the great blog, Lisa. Wish I could hug Mei, our sweet boy. He handled the ” jab” much better than I would have!! Hope you get to see Hua Mei while you are there. Tell her how much we love and miss her, and how VERY PROUD we all are of her. She will always be my first baby.
November 24th, 2007 at 2:10 pm
Thank you, Lisa, for the second installment of Mei Sheng’s Journey. As others have said, you are a wonderful writer–your words evoke the sights and sounds of the trip so colorfully. I can’t wait to hear the rest. It bothered me that Mei Sheng was so tired that he had an outburst like you described. But I guess it’s not surprising after such a long trip, with so many new sensations. I’ve sat next to people on planes who’ve had bigger tantrums and didn’t quiet down as quickly as our boy did.
The Chicago Tribune, as I suppose many other papers did, had a story today about SDZ’s ” super-fertile” couple Bai Yun and Gao Gao, and how they have the mating game down pat. It was funny to read about how Bai has been interested in Gao Gao after the first day of mating, but that one day is usually enough for him. The article also mentioned the newest panda addition, calling our baby a ” chubby female” who will receive her name on Monday. An adorable (is there any other kind?) photo of the cubbette and her keepers accompanied the piece. Can’t wait until Monday. A belated happy Thanksgiving to everyone at SDZ without whom we would not be able to follow the lives of these wonderful animals.
November 24th, 2007 at 3:03 pm
May I add a huge ” AMEN” to all the above entries. I actually felt my heart pounding as you described Mei’s outburst. I am afraid I would have reacted just the way he did…his good humor and stress levels were about maxed out at that point, I am pretty sure. We so love that wonderful panda and are so glad the move is OVER and he is settling in (hope..hope) to his new life. We will certainly never forget him and never stop missing him terribly. Waiting for the next instalment of Mei Sheng notes from you…you are a GREAT writer, ya know!
November 24th, 2007 at 6:14 pm
Lisa, thanks for the 2nd installment. Was there any room in Sheng’s crate for him to stretch a bit? Did he have to sit the entire 20 + hours or could he stand on all 4 paws? I know how tired and cranky I got going overseas—I’d like to bark at a few folks myself~! Thanks again; looking forward to the rest of the travel journal! Oh yes, like many others, did you see Hua Mei or any of her cubs? How is she?
November 24th, 2007 at 7:54 pm
#9 Peggy – The NZ has negotiated with the Chinese and Tai Shan will remain here at least until his 4th birthday (July 9, 2009).
#30 Margot – The Grand Press, our local paper also had the article about ” the super fertile couple” along with an adorable picture of our ” chubby” female. We all are waiting for the naming ceremony Mon. so our little one will no longer be called ” cubby cubbie” or ” butt bottom”
As for all the media attention – watching the arrival of MeiXiang & Tian Tian (NZ) , they seemed to have arrived at Dulles quietly late at night & had a police escort to the zoo. But from what I read when LeLe & YaYa arrived in Memphis the media & every dignatary in TN was on hand to welcome them. I’m sure China wanted us to know how happy there were to have Mei Sheng back in his homeland Yes, it’s hard to think of a US born panda as going back home. But the zoos knew all cubs born in the US would return to China when they negotiated for their ” lease a panda” for millions. Let us hope that these $$ are also going toward to educating the Chinese popluation on how to save the wild pandas that are being decimated by logging, road building & the latest bamboo crisis. Those dedicated people at Wolong are trying to hard to save this wonderful animal but I wonder if those if the cities know what is happening.
Ok, I’ve missed my predication that our (no name cub) would be walking by now – this week, maybe. She certainly has squirming, rolling over & crawling down pat but just can’t get those back legs up yet …..AGGGGHHH – someone help her. But then my hubby says let her be a cub & don’t rush things.
November 24th, 2007 at 8:14 pm
Thanks, Lisa, for the continuing installments on your adventurous journey to China with Sheng. He deserved a night of peace to sleep and eat in private quarters, as did his traveling companions. Glad to know that he shows that he really is an adult bear who knows how to ” take care of himself” when necessary. He is not so spoiled that he doesn’t know when to ” speak up.”
Look forward to the next installment, and glad you made it back to SDZ safely. Hopefully at the end of your journal of the trip you will be able to give us an update on his 4 weeks away from SDZ.
November 24th, 2007 at 8:20 pm
Lisa thank you so much for the update.
I find myself crying don’t know if it’s cause so happy or so sad.
I’m glad Mei made the trip so well but is so sad that he had to leave.
Can’t wait for the next update. I agree you are a remarkable writer I felt like I was right there.
Thank You
November 24th, 2007 at 8:26 pm
Margot – the Charleston, SC paper also carried the AP story on Bai Yun and Gao Gao, but did not include the photo. Rats!
Lisa, your blog is beautifully written. Please do not ever feel insecure about your writing as it comes straight from your heart and it’s very moving. In my opinion, Mei Sheng is very blessed to have you as his spokesperson!
November 24th, 2007 at 9:18 pm
Thanks so much Lisa for providing us with the details of your trip with Mei Sheng! It warms my heart to hear how much you love him and how well received he will be in Wolong!
November 24th, 2007 at 9:42 pm
Lisa, Accolades to you and all the people involved in the care of our precious pandas and all animals at the Zoo. Your writings give evidence of the love and concern you have for the pandas and the time and effort put into preparing Mei Sheng for his journey to China. I am so grateful that the Chinese have embraced him for the special bear he is. They appeared to be interested in how we felt about his return to China. If you gave them a copies of all the ” panda blogs concerning his departure for China” they could probably wall paper their offices!!! He might be in their country but he is in our hearts and we know they will love him as the ” national treasure” he is. Your writings give us comfort that they will appreciate him as much as we have. I don’t have any ” happy honey” but when I am having a bad day I always check out the panda cam to see what our pandas are up too!! That will usually put a smile on my face and in my heart!! Can’t wait for the next installment, your writings make us feel part of the journey!! Thank you.
November 24th, 2007 at 11:07 pm
I agree with all who have expressed their admiration for your writing skills and thank you for sharing your and Mei’s journey with us. I’m sure I wouldn’t have lasted all that time before my first outburst–and, in a way, it’s good to know that he does still have his ” animal instincts” about him for as much human contact as he has had. Can’t wait for the next chapter and the naming ceremony for Little Miss Fluffy Butt (wonder what that is in Chinese!). Thanks again!
November 25th, 2007 at 10:30 am
Thank you Lisa, for taking the time to allow all of Mei Shengs followers to be right along side you during the trip. I just have to say that it’s not just San Diego that worried about Sheng’s journey, but all over the world. I live in Pa. and follow the San Diego Panda’s, and all of the other animals at your zoo too. Being able to watch the Panda Cam, and the others, brings your zoo closer to me, than the one in Phila. Watching the cam’s make me feel that all of these animals are in my neighborhood. I sometimes forget how far away they actually are. Thanks again for the wonderful diary of your trip. Looking forward to the next entry.
November 25th, 2007 at 11:46 am
CAN’T WAIT FOR PART 3…TO SEE HOW HE WAS THE NEXT DAY…BACK TO NORMAL I HOPE. EVEN THOUGH HE SEEMED TO GO ALONG WITH EVERYTHING HE JUST MIGHT HAVE BEEN A LITTLE SCARED BUT DIDN’T WANT ANYONE TO KNOW AND THAT POKE MADE HIM LOOSE HIS ” COOL” SUCH A LOVE BUNNY…WELL I’LL BE WAITING FOR THE NEXT CHAPTER…..
November 25th, 2007 at 2:26 pm
Hi Lisa,
I just began ” panda watching” at the San Diego Zoo a few months ago when the new baby was born. I have fallen in love with Mei Sheng because of your wonderful blogs and the archives concerning him. Thank you for your wonderful diary ….
Carol
November 25th, 2007 at 2:38 pm
From the China Daily -
Regional law enacted to protect giant panda habitat
(Xinhua)
Updated: 2007-11-24 21:19
XI’AN — Lawmakers in Northwest China’s Shaanxi Province enacted a law on Saturday that is intended to improve protection of the Qinling Mountains, a habitat of endangered giant pandas.
The law, which will take effect on March 1, is aimed at preserving biodiversity, preventing soil erosion (which averages 84 million tons a year) and promoting harmony between man and nature in the mountain range, which is a divide between China’s north and south.
It requires all future development projects in the Qinling Mountains to be assessed for their possible impact on the ecology and bans real estate projects and polluting industries in nature reserves, where the ecology is more vulnerable.
The law also bans mining and resource exploration in nature reserves and forest parks.
Local governments must ensure immediate demolition of existing projects that are potentially harmful to the ecology, it says.
The Qinling range, which largely spans Shaanxi Province, covers more than 50,000 square kilometers.
The range is home to approximately 300 Qinling pandas, a sub-species of giant pandas on the verge of extinction, and many other rare animals under state protection, such as golden monkeys, the red ibis and antelopes.
November 25th, 2007 at 3:53 pm
Thank you for another installment in Mei Shengs journey.
I was a bit upset about Mei Shengs little outburst, but i don’t blame him either. If he was accidentally poked by bamboo then i guess he thought ” hey what you do that for” . As others have said he was obviously tired after such a long journey, but i’m so glad he settled down again quickly and didn’t need his ” happy honey” . He really is a true champ.
I am so happy that his new keeper was there to meet him. I’ll bet he fell in love with him within a few days of meeting him as Mei Sheng has a way of making people fall in love with him.
I’m eagerly waiting the next installment.
Not too many hours now till baby cub gets her name. It’ll be weird calling her by her new name not cub, cubette, miss fluffy butt, and all the other nicknames she’s been given.
Still miss Mei Sheng on panda cam.
November 25th, 2007 at 5:00 pm
I have been away from my computer for a few days and note there is a large amount of info to catch up on,
including Lisa’s superb account of Sheng’s journey to Wolong – it sounds amazing but we all know he truly is the Prince of Panda’s.
Tomorrow which will be 26th Nov.’07 – ‘Little Miss Fluffy Butt’ should receive her official name, I guess we will still call her ‘Bright Star’ whatever the decision.
During a quick read through some blogs I noted one pandaholic was enquiring if any person knows where Bai takes ‘Bright Star’ when they go on various excursions from the den.
If you check the video footage for today, at approx. 09.15am you will see the pair outside on C29 (in black and white) Bai is very familiar with that area so that will be one of the areas where they have fun.
I realise Bright Star is a round little Fluffy Butt however she does not appear to walk very far and mostly enjoys rolling around , often upside down on the floor of the den.
I realise she has weekly medicals therefore I assume all is well in that department and she chooses to relax and be a laid back girl.
Must get back to check what is happening in the den and wait for the Naming Ceremony tomorrow….
November 25th, 2007 at 6:39 pm
Thank you for the MOMENT-TO-MOMENT account. It makes me feel as though I were there.
(Sigh. I’m in tears right now.)
November 25th, 2007 at 6:47 pm
I know this is not related to Mei Sheng
I was watching panda cam earlier and Bai Yun was lying down in the den with miss fluffy butt and when Bai Yun sat up in the den miss fluffy butt then stood up on her back two legs – woo hoo! then she made her way to the edge and turned to face Bai Yun lost her balance and fell out of the den!!!. It was so funny to watch all i could see was all four legs up in the air. Bai Yun had obviously seen what happend and got up poked her head out and picked up miss fluffy butt in her mouth and brought her back into the den. She made such a fuss of her just like us mums do if our children fall over.
Bet little girl got a shock falling out of the den. She was a bit too adventureous. Poor Bai Yun she’s going to have her paws full when little girl really gets moving.
I think we will see plenty to laugh over in weeks and months to come.
November 25th, 2007 at 9:10 pm
Lisa, thank you for writing this blog of Sheng’s journey! Your words are so vivid, that I too nearly feel I am along for the ride. Eagerly awaiting the next installment….
November 26th, 2007 at 5:18 am
Dear Lisa,
Thank you for sharing with us your feeelings and concerns during the trip.
We fell your love in all of words , with our Baby Boy.
Thank you for had looked after our Boy and make him able to put up with the long and completly new situation.
I’m looking foward to another installmente of this trip.
Yestarday, I saw many Mr M’s pictures, when I met him in person in april 2004 and I cried again…
Thank you and congratulations, Lisa for successful trip.
November 26th, 2007 at 5:25 am
Thanks so much for taking the time to write this very detailed account of Mei Sheng’s journey to China. We appreciate the ‘inside scoop’; and your writing is very reassuring that his journey was a good one. Thanks to you and all the panda staff at SDZ, Wolong, and all the panda centers everywhere who take such good care of these precious bears.
November 26th, 2007 at 5:46 am
Lisa, thanks for the oustanding installments of your journey with Mei Sheng. Have you ever thought of writing a book?! Your writing skills are superb and I hang on every word while reading your detailed account. Although it might be considered unfortunate that Mei Sheng had a little outburst, in a strange way it is comforting to see that he is a perfectly normal bear with perfectly normal reactions. I also worried a little about his trip because he is a somewhat sensitive bear, but Mei Sheng has proven that with a little planning and preparation on the part of the amazing SDZ staff, all is well – at least so far. I eagerly await your next installment!
#33 Maureen – I know just how you and your husband feel. On one hand, I can’t wait for little miss fluffy butt to start toddling around – it is such an adroable stage. But on the other hand, if she takes after big sis Su Lin, she will soon be up the trees and hard to view on pandcam. I guess we will just have to patiently wait for her to master walking – which might be a little while longer – she has a lot of ” fluffy” to get off the ground!
November 26th, 2007 at 6:21 am
Lisa, thank you so much for the second report on our boy Mei Sheng. Your reports have helped to relieve many concerns and doubts about us losing Sheng but now we know that he is OK.
November 26th, 2007 at 8:18 am
Lisa, thanks for adding the comments, ” Scott was going to be Mei Sheng’s keeper once he got to Wolong. It was comforting that he had come so early in the journey to meet Sheng, observe his behaviors, and let Mei Sheng see him with me.”
I am certain it was very comforting to you to know that Sheng would meet his new primary keeper upon his arrival in China, and that they would get to bond while you were still with him.
Is Scott the keeper shown feeding him ” treats” in the ” official” Chinese photos of Mei Sheng’s arrival at Wolong? It is when he was first released into his quarantine yard, and the keeper is being interviewed on Chinese TV? It appears that the keeper is fairly knowledgable as he has a fair amount to say, unfortunately in Chinese, and appears to be paying close attention to Mei Sheng’s behavior and reaction to him and the treats.
November 26th, 2007 at 8:24 am
My local paper also had the article and photo about the ” chubby female” cub getting her name. I believe any press that the pandas get is a blessing, the more people that know about them and how fragile their breeding and loss of habitat is hopefully makes more public awareness to do more to protect these gorgeous animals.
Lisa, thank you so much for the vivid account of Mei Shengs travels, I would have been a little crabby myself after such a long flight and all those people looking at me. I am anxious to hear more.
November 26th, 2007 at 8:43 am
Maureen, #43, thanks for the update on the ecological law being passed to protect the Qinling mountain reserve. The 300 pandas in that area will hopefully be better off with the passage, and enforcement, of the new law. It shows that the Chinese government is slowly but surely making progress toward protecting the pandas’ environment from human encroachment and destruction. Look forward to hearing more such measures being enacted near Wolong, and Chengdu.
November 26th, 2007 at 8:45 am
For those looking for the article on the ” panda super couple” with pictures, check out the CNN website. It has pictures of Bai Yun and Gao Gao ” together” , Mei Sheng, Su Lin and Miss Fluffy Butt. I chuckled when I read that after 1 day, Gao Gao was more interested in his bamboo than in Bai Yun. But, that, since Bai Yun has had 3 cubs by him, he seems to know what he’s doing.
Lisa, I know you’ve heard this several times, but your writing is wonderful and really helps us feel like we were there. Thank you for taking the time to share.
November 26th, 2007 at 8:53 am
This is completely off the topic of Mei Sheng’s trip and the wonderful blog…
I’m sitting in my office looking out the window at a cold, grey, semi-snowy Mid-Michigan day, taking a quick break (honest, boss) to check in on my favorite pandas. My eyes were met with the most beautiful picture of Su Lin sitting outdoors in the midst of beautiful orange flowers, casually munching her favorite ‘boo! Talk about a mood booster!
I can’t wait to learn baby’s name and see the wonderful pictures of the event.
November 26th, 2007 at 9:08 am
I just saw one of the funniest panda sights ever for me. Tai Shan had an enrichment ” toy” of three bright balls on the end of a fire hose. It was up in a tree and he wrestled with it. He was the most excited about this particular toy that I have ever seen him. He rolled upside down on the tree limbs to play with it over and over. He would drop it, hang over the limb to be sure it was on the ground, climb down retrieve it, and quickly climb back up and played with it again. He did this at least 5 times. Then he dragged it off into the water to play with. Finally he gave up and trotted off to explore the exhibit and went in to the ” stream” to get a long cold drink. It was hilarious. I haven’t seen such a toy for Su Lin or Mei Sheng. I can just picture Mei Sheng having such fun with his toys. Lisa said, ” his luggage” arrived with him, and in several photos I have seen her pulling out his toys from a box. I hope that he is enjoying his familiar favorite items in his temporary quarantine home. Hopefully next week he will be released into his new space with all the tall trees and room to roam that we have been reading about previously.
November 26th, 2007 at 9:27 am
Thank you Lisa for the great update on Mei Shemg’s journey. I have been on a long flight from here to Italy and back and I know how he felt. It is no surprise that he would react that way after being taken from his home and then having strangers all around him after being cooped up for all of those hours. I know he is settled down now and will be fine, life does go on and animals do adapt, Pandas want their bamboo and as long as they have their bamboo they will be fine. Mei Sheng will do just as well as Hua Mei has done. I wish him well.
Your article is great Lisa!!
November 26th, 2007 at 9:31 am
Question – I noticed red hibiscus flowers in the camera shots of Su Lin this morning. It looks like they are part of the front of the exhibit. But, maybe they were part of her ” Breakfast?” I know that you feed pandas extra goodies like yams, carrots, apples, etc, but don’t recall Hibiscus. Since Hibiscus are edible, and the pandas (at least at NZP) are known to eat ornamental plants in their exhibits, I thought I would ask. It would make for a very colorful meal.
November 26th, 2007 at 11:36 am
Thank you again, Lisa. As several people said before me, your writing is fine indeed. I hope we will get to read your blogs now and then later on.
) !
These blogs and the pandas themselves are my daily ‘happy honey’, kindly and directly delivered at desk
November 26th, 2007 at 11:42 am
If Scott is reading this blog, I just want to say hello. I am sure you will take good care of Mei Sheng and please keep us updated about his forthcoming milestones in China. Thank you in advance.
November 26th, 2007 at 11:54 am
Thank you sooooooo much for the little bit of information posted on panda cam page about the latest news from China on our Mei Sheng. I’ll bet he has got jet lag after all he’d never left SDZ before. Bless him.
So he’s developing a taste for Chinese quisine is he! Well at least it shows he’s starting to settle.
Just a little snippet of information means so much as i didn’t think we would hear anything from Wolong so thanks to them for passing it on and ofcourse thanks to you for putting it on the page for all of us to read
November 26th, 2007 at 12:42 pm
Margaret #58. I too saw Tai Shan’s antics this morning. He was showing why he’s still ” Tai the Terror!” . I did see a picture somewhere of some of Mei Shengs toys that were among his ” luggage” and I seem to remember seeing something similar. Hopefully he loves his as much as Tai obviously does.
It’s 2:30 Michigan time and I keep refreshing the zoo site, to hopefully find out Miss Fluffybutt’s official name. I would have given just about anything to be there, but I’ve opted to wait until I can see her in person. I’ll be glued to the National news tonight and will anxiously await being able to view video of it here soon.
November 26th, 2007 at 12:44 pm
Margaret #58, the toy you saw Tai Shan playing with is called Pings Pearls. (aussie dog company) I’m a member of a small group of panda lovers who bought one of those for Mei Lan in Atlanta and all the pandas there love to play with it. Not sure who got the one for the NZ pandas, but watching Tai play with it was a real treat! Yang Yang in Atlanta went quite bonkers over the weeble presented to him back over the summer, too. You can see a video of that on YouTube, what a riot! I love all the enrichment items that the keepers come up with for these captive animals – I’ve even seen watched elephants ‘playing’ with those ping pearl things – only much, much bigger ones! hee-hee
Lisa – thanks for the update on Mei’s trip, too. What a trooper he is. I’m glad to read on the cam page from his Chinese keeper that he is doing well, also.
Now. . . what is cubbies new name???
waiting in NY. . .
November 26th, 2007 at 12:48 pm
Thanks for the update from Mei Sheng’s Chinese keeper at Wolong that he is recovering from ” jet lag” and doing well, including adapting to Chinese cuisine. By now he will show his ” true colors” and his lovable flexible self getting Scotty and his other keepers to fall ” in love” with him just as much as his SDZ keepers did.
November 26th, 2007 at 1:55 pm
She’s walking! Little Miss Cubmuffin is on the move this afternoon; she’s roaming around the outside of her den.
November 26th, 2007 at 1:59 pm
Okay folks, I just checked the SanDiego Tribune & found the cubs name is Zhen Zhen (Precious). It was not the name I voted for but it sure is appopriate. So now am off to check Zhen.
November 26th, 2007 at 2:00 pm
It has been 2 hrs! What is the cubs name…????
Sorry, seems like we’ve been waiting forever!
November 26th, 2007 at 2:02 pm
so much suspense regarding Bright Star’s official name – it is now 2.02pm and I have not seen it written officially!
On the other hand, Bright star had a full ‘walking’ training session with Bai about 1.00pm (SD) her cub stepped reluctantly ‘over the edge’ of the den and then trundled around trying to keep up with Bai who I feel certain was encouraging her daughter that ‘those feet are made for walking’
Bright Star was certainly progressing by getting her Fluffy Butt off the ground – now back to checking for the announcement of her official name……..
November 26th, 2007 at 2:10 pm
Congratulations to Zhen Zhen (doubly precious)! The name fits her very well! I keep trying to find the ” official” announcement on the SDZ website, but couldn’t find it yet.
I was looking at the 11/20/07 time lapse video and it looks like Zhen Zhen and Su Lin both got great new ” climbing” structures and ” obstacle courses” last week. Su Lin’s new logs look very exciting for her, and new pieces of bamboo all over the den floor looked like an obstacle course for Zhen Zhen.
Looking forward to calling ” our little girl” by her own name.
November 26th, 2007 at 2:13 pm
I think ” Precious” is a great name for her, because she certainly is that!! I saw her walking just awhile ago too, now she’s asleep up against the wall! I love her name. Zhen Zhen, she certainly is!!
November 26th, 2007 at 2:13 pm
Look on the main page they have her name and her picture, It’s Zhen Zhen which means precious
November 26th, 2007 at 2:14 pm
WOO HOO
Am i happy oh yes i am. Firstly our little miss fluffy butt, has finally got a name,
Secondly it’s the name i voted for Woo Hoo! (me jumping around so happy)
Zhen Zhen welcome finally to your new name.
I’ve been watching her walking around outside the den she was certainly moving well.
November 26th, 2007 at 2:15 pm
Congrats on your new name babygirl! Zhen Zhen is certainly ‘precious’ in every way possible.
Live long, little one! The world is watching with open hearts and arms.
November 26th, 2007 at 2:18 pm
Congratulations on your name, Zhen Zhen! You are certainly a most precious baby girl. Although any of the names would have been great, I like the fact that she has a ” double” name like her father, the first of his cubs to have one.
November 26th, 2007 at 2:25 pm
Precious Little Miss Fluffy Butt is really walking and has a real name–what a big day for her! Will we be able to see the naming ceremony on video? We love you, Zhen Zhen!
Moderator’s note: A video and an iZoofari Chat about the ceremony will be posted later today.
November 26th, 2007 at 2:28 pm
It is possible that Mei Sheng needs someone to hold his hand or to stroke him. A 3-day+ journey can really be tiresome, plus he cannot walk around.
November 26th, 2007 at 2:41 pm
We informed Tai Shan of his cousin’s new name as soon as it was posted for all the world to see. Like any kid, he has immediately given her a nickname! Tai is already calling her cuzzin Zoom Zoom!
November 26th, 2007 at 2:46 pm
She has now a name and SHE WALKS !!!
November 26th, 2007 at 2:48 pm
Congratulations Zhen Zhen! Oooooh, it’s going to get so exciting now as Little Miss Fluffy Butt becomes Little Miss Scuttlebutt. I see she is exploring already.
November 26th, 2007 at 2:56 pm
I must admit I’m a tiny bit disappointed in the cub’s new name only because it sounds masculine to me. But since I love our precious cub I will love her name too!
November 26th, 2007 at 3:00 pm
Would someone be so kind as to refresh my memory on how Zhen Zhen is pronounced.
Moderator’s note: We are pronouncing it Jun Jun (rhymes with Fun Fun).
November 26th, 2007 at 3:14 pm
I love our little one’s new name – Zhen Zhen – so perfect for such a precious gift. Looking forward to seeing the video from the ceremony. I found this on our local SD news website – and thought this was really funny about our boy Gao Gao… what a stud!
” Gao Gao’s prowess has provoked a bout of panda envy elsewhere around the U.S. Earlier this year, the National Zoo in Washington used a sample of Gao Gao’s semen to try to artificially inseminate their panda, Mei Xiang, who set off a panda craze in the capital when the zoo’s own male panda fathered her cub in 2005. The Washington Post chronicled the journey of a 2-foot tall tank of dry-ice cooled materiel from San Diego to Washington in March, writing that Gao Gao had the ” liquid eyes” of Johnny Depp and the ” sultry mystery” of Antonio Banderas. After the pregnancy failed, one blogger on the Web site DCist gave the setback a positive spin, saying Washingtonians can ” sleep better tonight knowing that Washington panda sperm is indeed superior to that of Southern California.”
Gao Gao, who lolls in his sun-dappled pen, double-fisting bamboo, is eliciting less fawning coverage back home. The San Diego Union-Tribune recently published a story that said the people were getting a little jaded by the pandas’ success.”
November 26th, 2007 at 3:29 pm
Zhen Zhen = precious, is a perfect name for ‘our’ special panda girl. She is very precious, especially in 2007, as she is the only cub born in USA from 3 possible pregnancies. With the 2 pseudo-pregnancies at Memphis Zoo and NZP, and the low number of cubs born in China this year, she is most definitely very very precious, hence the double name.
And the fact that she celebrated her naming ceremony and new name, by walking around on her own for all her adoring fans to see, just makes it all the more a very very special day. After the sadness and chaos of the fires, and the departure and long journey of her big brother, Mei Sheng, she has given everyone a very special reason to celebrate, and to watch her grow before our eyes.
Welcome, Zhen Zhen, to the big wide world outside your den under the watchful eyes of your super Mom Bai Yun, and your adoring fans worldwide!
November 26th, 2007 at 3:44 pm
when i watch our little girl, i keep hearing stevie wonder’s song, ” isn’t she precious?”
zhen zhen, precious she is!
joan
painted post, n.y.
November 26th, 2007 at 3:56 pm
Thanks so much for the up-date. Can’t wait to hear more; we love our pandas! And our little Zhen Zhen couldn’t be any cuter.
November 26th, 2007 at 4:08 pm
Zhen Zhen…what a perfect name! At last she has a true name–a name that really suits her and her heritage and gives her the status and dignity she deserves!
November 26th, 2007 at 4:13 pm
Really enjoyed the update on Mei Sheng, thanks so much!!! Love the little ones name too, she truly is precious…. Cant’ wait for her to start her antics with her Momma…..
Loved the article on ccn today about Bai Yun and Gao Gao… They do indeed make a wonderful couple!!
November 26th, 2007 at 4:44 pm
Yippie Ki-aaaaaaaa, Zhen Zhen, I love it!!!!!!
The name I voted for, she is ” precious” . I have watched her since day one . I am from North Carolina and I do NOT miss a day checking in on the little one and Mom. Today I observed her moving about as fast as Mom. She is a trooper.
I have also enjoyed the updates on Mei Sheng. What a journey he has been on. Thank you for keeping us all informed on his venture.
Waiting anxiously for other blogs on Mei Sheng…
Karen in North Carolina!
November 26th, 2007 at 5:03 pm
Like everyone else I was amazed to see Zhen Zhen going for a stroll around the dayroom. I missed the ” swimming” phase where she was struggling to get those little hind legs working, it looks like she literally hit the ground running today. She stepped out of the den without falling, got both hind legs under her, and took off with strong, confident steps. Both momma Bai Yun and the keepers are going to have their hands full with this little girl – very soon!
November 26th, 2007 at 5:49 pm
Again, thanks for another excellent update. Mei Sheng’s outburst is a good example to show that although pandas are cute and cuddly, they are wild animals and can hurt.
November 26th, 2007 at 7:10 pm
Thanks Lisa for the update; My wife and I are happy to hear that everything went well and appreciate all the effort you ,the staff and everyone involved in the transfer have expended. We have been following Mei since birth on the cam, including visits to the SD Zoo and wish him the best of luck in his future as a dad!
November 26th, 2007 at 8:03 pm
Wow, what a great day for the baby – she was given her name and she’s walking! #86 Joan, that song came into my mind too! If I had as much computer savvy as some of the folks putting things up on You Tube, I’d try to make a slide show of her first 100 days and play that song behind it. Maybe someone on the zoo staff can do it?
That would be cool!!!
November 26th, 2007 at 8:10 pm
For great videos of Mei Sheng and Su Lin check out ” Mei Sheng returns to his ancestral homeland” by KJPandas on YouTube. There are great shots of Mei Sheng clowning around for Su Lin, and of him high up in the trees near the skycars. It is awesome, and set to ” I did it My Way” and ” My Funny Valentine” sung by Frank Sinatra and Luciano Pavarotti. It is a nice reminder of our ‘funny valentine’ and how we enjoyed him as he grew from the size of baby sister Zhen Zhen to the confident adult male panda that was ready to go ‘home’ to his ancestral homeland in Wolong.
November 27th, 2007 at 9:41 am
Lisa, once again, THANK YOU so much for the updates on Mei Sheng. It’s good to hear that he’s settling in a bit. I bet it was so startling to see him react to being poked like he did, knowing what a sweet, laid back fellow he is. I’d be grumpy too, after being on such a long flight, then having to deal with all the flashbulbs from the press. I’ll be so anxious to hear about how he’s settling in, I miss that big boy.
So glad our new little one finally has a name! She’s so much fun to watch!
Thanks again, Lisa and please let us know more about Mei Sheng!
November 27th, 2007 at 11:34 am
Thank you so much Lisa for your reporting on the trip. How nice that Mei’s new keeper meet him so early on. Makes us all feel like things will go well. Mei will have a keeper who cares for him like his SDZ family.
November 27th, 2007 at 1:57 pm
Lisa, thank you very much for the update, what you wrote is very touchy. I am surprise to know Mr. sensitive sweetie pie was confined to a very small space for such a long time before he reacted. That tells me how much work that you and the panda team had put in, and how good and tolerable Sheng was. But still, probably after 20 hours, Sheng gave up and starting to worry about being locked up forever. Poor baby!
Like some of you, I too noticed this black and white magic. Since a year ago, I found panda cams and fell in love with these wonderful adorable bears. They are so fun to watch, even when they are sleeping. They bring sunshine in my life. Love you pandas.
November 27th, 2007 at 2:40 pm
Lisa – Thanks for all the interesting facts on Me’s transpport & journey to China. It is amazing that he took the journey so well and that all of you with him did the same and are stilll smiling even if a bit weary of the travel. I will miss seeing him in the trees with Su Lin but know he will be adding to betterment of panda life at Woolong.
November 27th, 2007 at 7:02 pm
I never thought I would read such heartfelt comments from a ” caretaker” of these wonderful animals, or any animal. I guess I just didn’t realize how much the ” keepers” care, until I started following Mei Lan in Atlanta (and seeing Jay’s goodbye to Yang Yang after his promotion), and now reading your blog. Now, when I go to our small zoo here in San Antonio, I will have a new and profound respect and understanding of what you, Lisa, have shared with us all. You have taught me to care even more than I thought I could. Thank you for that!!
Thank you for sharing your journey with Mei Sheng with all of us. I hope someday to ” meet” a Panda in person here in the USA. Being in Texas, it may be tough (we don’t fly), but I’m pretty determined to find a way.
Lisa, you are a wonderful human being, and have a wonderful way with the written word. PLEASE (for all of us, and the animals you care for), don’t give up your day job, but…if you do…write away, girl. You are one AWESOME ” compu-phobe!”
–KK–
November 28th, 2007 at 9:52 am
Lisa – I was wondering if you got to see Hua Mei when you were at Wolong. If you did did she remember you. I cried when Hua Mei had to go and now Mei Sheng. You get so attached to them and they are like family. Scott seems to be a wonderful keeper and loves Mei Sheng. Its nice he is in good hands. Hope he writes a lot and lets us know how Mei Sheng is doing.
November 29th, 2007 at 8:03 am
Hi Lisa! I was wondering if Scott was the person we saw on the news reports, who was feeding Mei Sheng through the fence and speaking to the reporter? Of course, not understanding Chinese, I couldn’t tell what he was saying, but he seemed to be very interested in the Big Boy and very kind. He would scratch Mei Sheng on the nose when he handed him his biscuit.
Thanks again for your stories, can’t wait for more!
November 29th, 2007 at 9:40 am
Thank you for your colorful stories. We all miss Mei Sheng and hope you continue to update us on his progress.
November 29th, 2007 at 9:15 pm
Was checking regularly for all the details and appreciate you noting every small thing. I had heard he balked at getting into the smaller cage so hope you tell us everything. Poor little guy his love is roaming, hanging from and climbing trees and his has been so confined. Hope he will adjust ok and that China will not let him out into the wild because he is not prepared for this!!!!!
November 30th, 2007 at 10:16 am
Read on the SD website that Mei Sheng is experiencing some jet lag. I may get some grief from those who don’t believe that animals possess human emotions but I can’t help but wonder if some of what he is experiencing is being homesick. He is in an entirely new environment, with new people, new climate, the whole shebang. I can’t help but think that he is missing his familiar and beloved keepers and seeing little sis Su Lin at the howdy gate. I am sure that in time, he will adjust but I do believe he is missing the ” home sweet home” he has known since birth. Hang in there, Sheng! We are missing you too!!