Our Precious Panda Cub
Posted at 4:13 pm November 26, 2007 by Debbie Andreen
Windows Media version | Quicktime version
At last, cub #4 has a name: Zhen Zhen, meaning “precious” in the Mandarin dialect (look below for the Chinese characters for her name). We want to thank everyone who participated in the naming process, from the 2,400 names submitted by San Diego Zoo visitors to the online naming poll available to panda lovers worldwide to determine the winning name from four choices. Our poll generated over 50,000 votes, with Zhen Zhen receiving 36 percent of the vote. The official name was unveiled today during a special panda naming ceremony held at the Zoo’s Hunte Amphitheater. See video link at the top of this paragraph.
It is an especially wonderful day today as 16-week-old Zhen Zhen has started taking her first tentative steps! And just how do we pronounce the precious one’s name? Well, most of us here at the Zoo say Jun Jun (rhymes with Fun Fun or Run Run). But we like the suggestion from one of our blog readers, Bruce in KC, who wrote, “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!”
Debbie Andreen is the San Diego Zoo’s Web site editor. Listen to an iZoofari Chat she recorded after the Naming Ceremony.
From the San Diego Zoo’s Public Relations Department: Thank you for your comments regarding the recent addition of a sponsor to the Panda Cam. Please understand that the Panda Cam’s popularity means that it is very expensive to maintain. From the many comments we have received from all of you, we want to continue to make live cams and videos available, but to do this (and ensure that we are not taking away funds from the important work of conserving endangered species like the panda) we offer these outlets for sponsor support. Please join us in thanking Wowwee for supporting Panda Cam – so everyone can see baby Zhen Zhen.
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November 26th, 2007 at 4:45 pm
WOO HOO
Double celebration. Cutie gets her name and she starts walking properly and boy is she doing well.
Welcome to your new name Zhen Zhen. I love it, well i did vote for it.
I think Zhen Zhen will give us all so much joy and laughter if these last couple of days are anything to go by.
Mother and Daughter have such a lovely close bond she seems to be so very proud and protective of her little girl
November 26th, 2007 at 4:45 pm
Zhen Zhen is prefect for the newest addition of your family. I love the way that once she got her name she took off on all fours and I don’t think Zhen Zhen will slow down except to nap. Our baby is now a toddler. I didn’t see her at all this weekend but Bai must have fed her special formula because the change in her mobility is just amazing.
Now Bai will have no ” me time” for the next year.
Congratulations to everyone at the zoo. Another milestone has been passed, with many more to come.
November 26th, 2007 at 4:49 pm
Congrats precious Zhen Ahen you definately are precious like a rear gem! The name fits her too.
That was my pick because I though of how precious she is. I was there today at the naming ceremony I am so happy I was able to finally go to this event. I have always been working and unable to go, now that I have my own business I was able to attend. It was quite impressive with China being represented and the dragon dancers before the unvailing. Thank you for a wonderful ceremony today I won’t have missed it.
November 26th, 2007 at 4:51 pm
Oh no I just realized I spelled her name wrong . Sorry Zhen Zhen you still are precious!!!!
November 26th, 2007 at 5:15 pm
HER NAME IS PERFECT!!!…..THAT LITTLE CUB IS PRECIOUS!!! NOW WE CAN WATCH AS SHE WALKS AND GOES ZOOM ZOOM…INTO EVERYTHING, EVERY WHERE!!!!!!!!!
November 26th, 2007 at 5:16 pm
To All
The anouncement has been worth the wait! Precious Zhen Zhen! Perfect! Zhen is enjoying her name day!
First a name and then showing off with baby steps! Oh are you all going to have your hands full now
Congratulations!!
Happily,
Bobbie Wood
November 26th, 2007 at 5:18 pm
Yay! The name definitely suits this gorgeous cub, though any of them would have. I certainly DO like this one though! Cracking up at ” Zoom Zoom!”
November 26th, 2007 at 5:31 pm
What an exciting day. A perfect name for our little darling.
November 26th, 2007 at 5:38 pm
Thank you for the update and video. I love the faces of the visitors. They all looked so happy. Today was really a big day for Zhen Zhen. It’s the first time I saw her really walking!!! I saw her walked a few steps before. She seemed to be afraid to walk down the step from the den to the ground. I saw her this afternoon doing the same, and I was cheering for her, and finally, she did it! She didn’t just come out by herself but walk around the area. I was so happy for her. She must be excited.
November 26th, 2007 at 5:50 pm
Hi!! This baby girl panda cub has a real name! PRECIOUS fits her beautifully because she is a very precious animal that everyone should get involved with to keep pandas from going out of our lives. I was hoping for Ming Zhu–Bright Treasure, because everybody has pretty much nicknamed her Bright Star ever since she was born, and that name was as close to Bright Star that we could vote for. Zhen Zhen is very precious to all of us! Read tonite that she is finally getting all 4 of those legs under her and starting to walk. Oh boy!! It’s been a couple of years since she chased Su Lin around when Su Lin was that little. Bai Yun had better get herself in shape now because the chasing will get started before she knows it! Bai should be a pro on this after 3 kids, so I can’t wait to see the fun begin! Also saw on the short profile that Zhen has gained a little bit of weight on 11/21 at 13 pounds. I was wondering if and when the vets did their weekly health check on her because of the Thanksgiving holiday. Hope you all have a video of that on the video page. Can you all do something for us? We know that Zhen Zhen got about 35% percent of the votes, but I think that we are all very curious as to how the other 3 names on the list came out on the votes. Be pretty interesting on how the votes went!
Got on the panda cam earlier today and saw Zhen in the other room under the platform with only her rear end showing! CUTE!! She must have crawled out of the den again on her own to see where mom went to! Now that she’s started walking, we’ll be seeing her go places alot more! Hope the pandacam people are up to following her around and keeping up with her! That’ll be fun!
Hoping and praying that none of the SDZ and WAP employees didn’t lose any homes in the Malibu area after this latest wildfire. Thankfully, this latest round of Santa Ana winds didn’t last very long, and the latest Malibu fire is very close to being 100% contained. Good work, firefighters!! They think that this one was started by a couple of teenage kids by accident. Let’s all pray and hope that you all DO NOT see anymore wildfires during this winter. You all have had enough of that already!
Well, gonna go and check on Bai and Zhen on the pandacam. It feels real good to write this cub’s new name down!
Chari Mercier
St. Pete, FL
November 26th, 2007 at 6:02 pm
Eva (#9), Hi! I watched Zhen crawl out of the den by herself about a week or so ago, so she’s definitely trying hard to get herself moving around more!
About Mei Sheng—read the short update about Sheng on the main page of the panda page. I kind of figured that he was feeling some jet lag after that loooooong flight to China! Sounds like that he’s doing very well and eating Chinese bamboo and other snacks. Looking forward to Lisa’s part 3 of her China trip blog. Going to pandacam to see Bai and Zhen!
Chari Mercier
St. Pete, FL
November 26th, 2007 at 6:35 pm
Zoom Zoom….. I love it, Bruce! Da Sooperpanna always comes up wif da bestest stuff! Our widdle one sure was motoring around today. I really needed a panda break from work and our little girl provided just the ticket, well, after Tai Shan’s marvelous performance with the tree and the pings pearl things, that is. A wonderful Monday.
Thanks to SDZ for all your hard work. Kisses to little ZZ!
November 26th, 2007 at 6:47 pm
I love how Zhen Zhen has a double name, like her daddy Gao Gao. So exciting that she is becoming more mobile! Bai Yun, I believe your time of resting is just about at its end……Lil Zhen will be zoom zooming around and giving us all more reasons to smile~
November 26th, 2007 at 6:57 pm
I too loved Bruce in KC’s interpretation of Zoom Zoom. Sounds like the unanticipated delay holding the vote and Naming Ceremony allowed Zhen Zhen just enough time to get her back legs working so she could celebrate her big day too. Way to go girl! If she follows the same path as Mei Lan, she will soon be zooming all around the exhibit and will be joining Bai Yun under the stars, sun, or whatever and whereever she wants, whether Mom approves or not.
November 26th, 2007 at 7:03 pm
What an awesome sight to see Zhen Zhen aka: Zoom Zoom (Good one, Bruce!) scooting around today outside of the den both with and without Bai Yun. Cheers to the Meercats manning the webcam! I was chatting online with a friend in San Diego who was also watching the webcam along with us being ” internet stalkers” of the local news sites in San Diego for a name update after 3PM, Pacific time. I finally found the name on KGTV’s site. My friend and I were cheering the then future Miss Zhen Zhen to to come out of the den. It looked like there was a small treat just outside and it took her probably 15 or 20 minutes to get the nerve up to go out. Bai walked in and out of another door several times and soon Miss Zoom Zoom was movin’ shoes behind mama. I have some great screen captures of her and also with Bai Yun. It made a sick day at home a bit more BEARable!
You go, little Miss Zhen Zoom!
November 26th, 2007 at 7:08 pm
What a day cubbie has had. I have watched her try to come out of the den for days now. Everytime she got out, it was because her bottom pulled her out. Gravity took over and there Zhen Zhen went. Yesterday and today she really took her time getting out of the den. She didn’t seem to know which end she wanted to point towards the floor. Finally, she was out of the den, trying to follow Mommy when she went in and out. Then I saw that she was actually walking, not crawling, all around the floor. When Mommy finally came inside, she found Zhen asleep on the floor, all tuckered out. What a cutie, and she was fast too! Zoom Zoom is very apt for her! What a day she’s had. Lot’s of stuff happening!
November 26th, 2007 at 7:27 pm
Yayyyyyyy !!!!! We love It !!! Glad Zhen Zhen was the popular choice (and my choice) !!! Ohh Precious baby !!
November 26th, 2007 at 7:32 pm
I’m happy our ” precious” little girl is now called ” Zhen Zhen” ! I voted for both Zhen Zhen and Xiao Li because I couldn’t make up my mind which I wanted to vote for…I love Zhen Zhen because I was told the pronunciation was phonetically ” Jen Jen” by a native Mandarin speaker.
November 26th, 2007 at 7:37 pm
For those of you waiting for a photo of the cub with the traditional red background – look at her latest photo Nov 26, 2007! She looks as precious as any cub could possibly get.
http://www.sandiegozoo.org/news/panda_news.html
November 26th, 2007 at 7:43 pm
This has been a day of double excitement. After waiting so long to find the name of fuzzy bottom – not only to get the news of a perfect name Zhen Zhen, our ” precious” cub also started walking & not just a tentative step or 2 before falling over – but walking around. Maybe she was just waiting for her name before taking off. I’m sure they’ll be some complaining about her name – I didn’t vote for Zhen (got hung up our first name for her, Bright Star – Treasure) but it’s perfect. Now if I can remember how to pronounce it -as have Tai Shan’s nickname, Zoom Zoom in my mind. Must say I was disappointed with the national news (ABC) tonight as there was no mention of the naming ceremony & if it was on CNN this afternoon, I missed it.
My heart goes out to Bai & the keepers now that Zhen is on the go – look out!!!!The antics are just beginning. What was a dreary day in Michigan turned into a perfect one – thanks. Now I know I’ll get less done around here as I’ll have to keep checking the panda cam. It’s good thing hubby understands.
November 26th, 2007 at 7:58 pm
Zhen Zhen is beautiful! It’s not the one I voted for but the names always seem to fit them. Bruce from KC,
I think you are going to be right about Tai Shan’s comment. I have very strong feeling that Zhen is not going to be the laid back little girl that Su Lin was. I think she is going to be a handful like Tai Shan and Mei Lan.
Hang on, Bai! Your quiet days are over. Now, I need to go watch the time lapse to see these 1st steps on this momentous day!
November 26th, 2007 at 8:13 pm
Yayyy! What a perfect name for the sweet little darling. Zhen Zhen you go girl!!
November 26th, 2007 at 8:29 pm
Zhen Zhen it is! She is certainly the most precious thing I’ve ever seen! I missed the naming ceremony by 2 days, drat…now I’m back in dreary Dallas. We hope to come back soon, what an enchanting city San Diego is…one week was far too short. We loved the Zoo, Seaworld and the La Jolla seals. The whole experience was just incredible. Y’all have some high prices there, though – yikes! I bought a shirt at Macy’s for full retail price, that’s gotta be a first for me!
zoom zoom zoom! I bet she will be bouncing all over the place soon! I look forward to the December Zoo wish list, time to buy gifts for our zoo creatures (also tax deductible).
Congrats on your new name, Precious Panda!
Paula in TX
November 26th, 2007 at 8:34 pm
Whew; what a fabulous day for pandaholics…! Our sweet little girl now has a name of her own, and, in celebration, must have decided that today was the day in which to show off to the world, her newly found skill: walking! If you haven’t seen today’s time-lapsed video, don’t miss it, as it is absolutely…….precious!
It was a special day for the SDZ & China; congratulations to you all; thank you for sharing it with us…!
Although Zhen Zhen was not my first choice for her name, it is perfect for this charming cub…! The fun is now beginning, as the world outside the den awaits her exploration; Bai Yun’s peaceful days are over…!!!
November 26th, 2007 at 8:34 pm
I love the name (I voted for it) because with Mei Sheng’s journey, we all realize how precious the Pandas are.
And she’s toddling! I wondered how she’d gotten out into a corner outside the den, so I went to time-lapse and there she was, moving all about! Go, Zhen Zhen!
November 26th, 2007 at 9:02 pm
awwww!!! What a sweetie our Precious is!! It was SO sweet seeing her walking around the little room… I thought she might hop on top of the table that was there. I would love to just grab her and kiss her little cheek! Congrats momma bear!
November 26th, 2007 at 9:02 pm
Welcome to your new name, Zhen Zhen! That’s the one I voted for, so I am pleased. Although, I do love Tai’s nickname of Zoom Zoom! Can’t believe I missed your big day of scooting around and now you’re off camera and it’s driving me nuts!! I did see you take a few steps over the weekend, however, and it was absolutely thrilling!
Much love to you and mama Bai and papa Gao Gao and big sis Su Lin and all the wonderful folks at the Zoo and Park!
Cant’ wait to see you struttin’ your stuff!
November 26th, 2007 at 9:20 pm
I, too, voted for Zhen Zhen–and isn’t it ironic that because of the fires, her ceremony was today instead of happening at 100 days, and the delay caused the ceremony and a big leap in her walking skills to happen at the same time! I think Bai Yun was coaching her this weekend–she spent more time actually in the den with her than she has been. Perhaps because the weather was cooler? As for the ceremony–when I saw the naming ceremony for the cubs at Woolong, they were present during the festivities. I guess I expected one of her handlers to bring Miss ZZ out for a wave–but the video didn’t show her there. Did I miss something? Also, the audio track at the beginning skips around a lot, but I heard something about a situation with Shi Shi–is this a new situation with him, or was she explaining about the parentage of Bai Yun’s cubs? Can’t wait to see the further adventures of Bai Yun and Zhen Zhen, as she conquers those door sills and starts climbing! What a great day!
Moderator’s note: Zhen Zhen was not at the naming ceremony. Our curator mentioned Shi Shi as an older panda more interested in food than in the young and lovely Bai Yun, requiring the artificial insemination that resulted in the Zoo’s first-born panda, Hua Mei.
November 26th, 2007 at 10:05 pm
KK West #7, With Zoom Zoom, when’s Wham Wham coming? LOL!
November 27th, 2007 at 12:19 am
Just for the sake of factual accuracy here, guys, I’m pretty sure that Tai Shan didn’t talk to ” Bruce from KC.”
First of all, Tai Shan can’t talk. Panda vocalizations don’t count, and even if they did, ” zoom” is not within the panda lexicon. (todo: fact check this. But where to find panda sounds? todo: steal a panda and make it make funny sounds.)
Second of all, Bruce is in Kansas City, not Washington, D.C., where Tai Shan lives. Would he really go all the way across the country to see a stick of butter when the pandas in Memphis and Atlanta are closer? (Well, Memphis for sure, at least.) Why would anybody bother to go out of the Kansas-Missouri area, anyway, when the ball of twine is so much closer? It can’t say ” zoom zoom” , but otherwise it’s a pretty fine panda replacement.
Third of all, we have no guarantee that the ” Bruce” and the anonymous staffer who wrote this blog post are not one and the same person. Let’s think about that for a while. Can you really trust quotations coming from people who believe that pandas can talk? I think not.
Ladies and gentlemen, what we have here is a panda fraud.
November 27th, 2007 at 2:56 am
#3 Peggy. Did they bring Zhen Zhen out at the naming ceremony? I wish i could have been there. I logged on at 6pm UK time which was your 11am and shouted out ” WOO HOO her name is Zhen Zhen the name i voted for. My mum wanted the name aswell. My daughter started off wanting another name but just before end of voting decided that Zhen Zhen – Precious is perfect
On sunday i was watching her with her mum in the den and she just stood up on her back two legs looked at Bai Yun as much as to say ” hey mum look at me” and then she toppled back and fell out of the den, there was four paws and a fluffy tummy facing up and Bai Yun went over and picked her up in her mouth and took her into the den and cuddled her. I was laughing at what had happened and then i was ” aaaargh that’s so sweet bless her” It must have really tired her out because she soon was fast asleep.
She is very precious and loved by so many and i am so envious of those of you who will be able to go visit her when she is out on exhibit. When you do please blow her a kiss and say it’s from me.
#9 Eva i was watching her also looking and trying to get down off the step. I said ” did it frighten you yesterday falling out?” Fancy a grown woman talking to a computer!!! She certainly did zoom zoom off once she got down though. I saw her trying to keep up with Bai Yun she doesn’t yet realise Bai has longer legs than she has but she’ll soon catch her up. She’s growing fast and i feel priveledged to be across the pond and able to watch this amazing precious Zhen Zhen.
Thank you SDZ for the panda cam for letting us all share in seeing these beautiful pandas.
November 27th, 2007 at 3:57 am
a perfect name for this bundle of joy, i to have been watching her taking her first steps, she seems to have got the hang of it now, well done zhen zhen. xx
November 27th, 2007 at 4:01 am
What a PRECIOUS panda cub!
Zhen is a most fitting name. Although, I must admit I need to practice pronouncing it. I keep saying all sorts of alternate sounds when I see it spelled. Just keep thinking ” Fun Run” — which seems to be what she will be doing very soon!
She is a Precious Bright Star for the Panda World.
Love, Joy
November 27th, 2007 at 5:11 am
I really loved her name.
Double precious… double hapiness… double cuteness… like she is and deserves!
November 27th, 2007 at 6:14 am
What a lovely name for this beautiful toddler! I’m sure Bai Yun would approve. Her care of Zhen Zhen shows how ” precious” this little one is to her. I like the idea that Tai Shan is calling his cousin Zoom Zoom. Maybe he knows something about her character that we haven’t discovered yet. I love watching her move around. It seems fitting that she should become more mobile the day she is officially named.
Just curious, have the staff there started to sit and talk to her, like with the other babies, and what has been her reaction to people?
November 27th, 2007 at 6:53 am
Congratulations to SDZ and widdle Zhen Zhen. I didn’t choose this name, but it is certainly growing on me! By tomorrow, it will seem that she was always Zhen. LOVE the nickname Zoom, Bruce…er Tai Shan. LOL. She was certainly living up to it yesterday. She’s a precious and precocious one, for sure.
November 27th, 2007 at 7:08 am
I love the nickname ” Zoom Zoom” too. Now that she’s on the move, it fits her perfectly!
November 27th, 2007 at 8:16 am
Thanks for the update Debbie, and the video is fun. Zhen Zhen, we’re finding out, is quite the newsmaker already. Congrats and good luck to all. We look forward to continue to follow her progress.
November 27th, 2007 at 9:22 am
I was not able to come to the ceremony as I live in Texas, but I was born and lived, for a time, in Pasadena, and love any connection with my birthplace. We have whiteboard in my house for the three of us kids, and I am constatly flooding it with Panda News. My family as a bad case of ZZC-Zhen Zhen Craze! The only cure? To watch more PandaCam! My brother has fallen in love with the little girl, and named a Webkinz Lil’ Kinz Panda after her so he can take care of her just like all of you at the SDZ. Isn’t that ” precious” ? He (and the rest of us) went crazy waiting for her to be named, so I checked on her every day. I think you’ll enjoy this…
How To Put Zhen Zhen As Your Wallpaper
First, find a time when you think she is adorable. Click ” >>Send this image as a postcard!” , and send it to yourself. Download it. Right click on the desktop, go down to ” properties” , click. Now select ” Desktop” , at the top, click ” Browse” , and select your picture. Change the position from ” Stretch” to ” Tile” for maximum cuteness. Click ” Apply” and you’re done!
I’m so excited for our precious one. May her life be joyful. (And full of bamboo!!)
November 27th, 2007 at 9:48 am
Well the name wasn’t one of my choices. I am glad actually it is in Chinese because though I consider her precious, I feel all our panda cubs have been that and I wouldn’t name anything Precious in English. Zhen Zhen is more attractive and though I didn’t choose it I feel that it is a good Chinese name for her. It is a little like ” Zoom Zoom” and that is what this cub seems to represent. She has been on fast forward since birth and the naming gave her the incentive it seems to start walking.
November 27th, 2007 at 10:46 am
Okay Bai – now the fun begins. First, remove all valuables and breakables from the coffee table, cover plug-ins, tie cupboard doors closed, get out lots of boxes and pots and pans, and ask Suzanne for a year’s supply of Happy Pills and a respite worker for yourself!! Oooops! I forgot, you are an expert at this….nevermind. I, too, am cracking up over Zoom Zoom. I think we will find that name very appropriate as the days go on. Congratulations Zhen Zhen, a precious name for a precious girl.
November 27th, 2007 at 11:02 am
I love the picture of Zhen Zhen with the red background. It screams precious in every way!
Love the name and thanks again to everyone!
November 27th, 2007 at 12:22 pm
Your a big girl now, you have your own name and your red velvet photo is well ” precious” and best of all your on the move by yourself. What more could we ask for. Bai,look out her she comes oops there she goes, your gonna be one tired mama. Zhen Zhen we love you our precious one
November 27th, 2007 at 12:32 pm
Anyone seeing Zhen Zhen right now?? (almost 11:30 am p.t.) She looks like a weeble..rolloing around in the outer room! Not quite able to get herself righted!! It is FUNNY!!
So glad to see you have your name finally. Although I liked calling you cub-muffin and Cubbette!!! You better get walking and get that round tush of yours a little smaller!! : ) tee hee!!
Thank you all again for all the updates; the blogs; the video’s. Such a wonderful thing this internet! THe things we can see and experience from anywhere in the world!!
November 27th, 2007 at 12:34 pm
What does Bai want at the door (camera 11)? Is this to another room she is used to going to or where staff feed her treats? Just curious.
November 27th, 2007 at 12:40 pm
For a limited time only, you can adopt Miss ZZ, you know. wink wink
http://www.sandiegozoo.org/adopt/animal.html
November 27th, 2007 at 12:41 pm
Kristi, #18, thanks for the tip from your native Mandarin speaker friend about the correct pronunciation. I have heard several versions, including Carmi’s.
It is amazing how fast she is moving around now. I remember when Mei Lan started walking last year. Once she got her feet under her, and figured out how to get in and out of the den doorway, off she went. I missed Mei Sheng, Su Lin, and Tai Shan at that stage, so I am not sure how fast they took off. But, my guess is that they did the same thing.
There is a whole new world to explore out there, and it sounds from the descriptions of Bai’s actions that she is trying to teach Zhen how to get around. She doesn’t need to, and with her weight climbing doesn’t want to, carry her around any more than is necessary.
Zhen is definitely precious and her timing is outstanding to coincide with her naming ceremony.
Off you go precious girl.
November 27th, 2007 at 12:48 pm
Hi! Zhen Zhen made the national news on CNN this morning! They were talking about her new name and the ceremony. Now, she’s a national celebrity in the same company as Su Lin, Tai shan, and Mei Lan over the last 2 years! By the way, the Atlanta Zoo pandacam is finally back up online! YEA!!! I think they got it back online late last week. Lun and Mei are doing their thing there. Mei even has a big rubber doughnut on the top of her teepee tree logs for her to play with and mouth on. Just got on the SDZ pandacam a little while ago and saw Zhen already out of her den doing rollovers in the corner of Bai’s room. She’s definitely getting alot more active now and moving around more! Bai was in there, too, but didn’t bother Zhen. She was standing up sniffing around the wall and walking around. Like I said and I agree with alot of you all—Bai’s resting days are just about over! She’ll be doing more chasing than resting from here on out, especially when Zhen really gets to moving around a lot faster! Have fun, Bai!!
Gonna go back on the cam and see what Bai and Zhen are doing now. Nicknames: Zoom Zoom, ZZ!?! I like both of them for this precious panda baby!
Love to Bai and Zhen,
Chari Mercier
St. Pete, FL
November 27th, 2007 at 12:57 pm
Suspense… and over is the game.
Gao’s and Bai’s baby got a name.
Zhen Zhen for the sweet panda girl,
the best name for this Chinese pearl!
For precious was she from the start
and captured everybody’s heart.
Zhen Zhen, you are so smart and strong.
With mum and dad you can’t go wrong.
Grow up in health and happiness
become the pride of panda race.
Thanks to everyone at SDZ for permitting us to vote for the name. I did, indeed, vote for Zhen Zhen, but I would have been happy with another name as well.
By the way, ” It’s a boy!” , i. e. the panda baby at the Vienna Zoo. Lucky, for I feel that Fu Long (happy dragon is more suited for a boy than a girl. The gender was definitely confirmed by the local vet.
November 27th, 2007 at 1:03 pm
Did you see Zhen playing peek a boo with the platform after mom Bai walked by? Bai Yun looked over at Zhen Zhen sitting quietly next to the platform by the wall, and kept on walking. Zhen was looking away, but I must get back to the cam to see if she zoom zoomed after her mother.
November 27th, 2007 at 1:20 pm
Zhen Zhen a beautiful name for a beautiful baby. Even though I didn’t pick this name, but zoom zoom is so adorable that makes any name sound good.
November 27th, 2007 at 1:24 pm
Ruth #49 that poem is just precious and she is a pearl, rare and beautiful. Thank You
November 27th, 2007 at 2:28 pm
Michael #30 you must not have any love in your heart for all your stupid facts.
November 27th, 2007 at 2:41 pm
SDZ staff, thanks as always for thinking not only of your precious animals, but also of their adoring fans. We were happy to be involved in naming the Precious One! (Yes, I voted for Zhen Zhen!).
To Bruce in KC, thanks for letting us know about the Sooperpanna’s nickname for his cuzzin! Zoom Zoom is a lot easier to pronounce! LOL
November 27th, 2007 at 2:47 pm
This name looks and sounds too masculine for a girl panda. For those who know Chinese-is gender a factor in picking a name?
November 27th, 2007 at 2:49 pm
Michael #30 –
Not that I need to, but just coz I want to – I can assure you that Bruce is in fact in KC. His ‘alter-ego’ is Tai Shan Sooperpanna in our group of panda lovers that have been together on the internet since Tai’s birth. He is a witty, funny and wonderful man and I’m proud to call him a friend. No fraud here, folks, just good old fashioned sense of humor!
Pandas bring out the best in people of all walks of life. You need only to spend a few miniutes watching them to understand that!
November 27th, 2007 at 2:56 pm
She is in fact very PRECIOUS!! And I might add, getting around very well these days too. Glad she has a name now. All I can say is she is just so Precious!! Ruth #49 – LOVE the poem! Happy watching to all!
November 27th, 2007 at 3:28 pm
#30 Michael – Of course Tai & all the pandas can talk – remember the fuss when the name Bright Star was not among those picked. At that time Tai, Mei Lan & SuLin all said they didn’t care.
Bruce – love ” zoom zoom” – couldn’t be any funnier now that Precious is on the go.
November 27th, 2007 at 3:50 pm
#55 – Michelle. Yes, in Chinese culture, Zhen Zhen is a girl’s name, a very precious girl’s name, precious like jewels. Just in case you folks were wondering how I voted… Well, I didn’t. I liked all the choices.
November 27th, 2007 at 4:06 pm
bruce in KC rocks! i’m proud of my friendship with this funny, intelligent and imaginative man who shares a wonderful fantasy with a rockin’ group of panda lovers who are also well grounded in reality. humans are the only animals than can fantasize, as far as we know, and that’s a gift to share.
zoom zoom it is!
November 27th, 2007 at 4:36 pm
Love the new pic of Precious. It looks just precious.
Thanks to the moderator of this blog, and to the webmaster. You put up with all we say, and seem to even take some of it to heart. Kudos!
Moderator’s note: We enjoy reading the comments and have learned so much from all of you! It is wonderful to know there are so many folks around the world that care so deeply for animals. Keep those comments coming!
November 27th, 2007 at 4:39 pm
I thought it was funny when NBC news in Los Angeles called ZZ ” Jen Jen” and showed a picture of Su Lin instead. They are going to give the poor little girl a complex.
November 27th, 2007 at 4:47 pm
Ni hao other panda lovers!
With the way that little cubbie moves, zoom zoom definitely fits, and as usual, cuzzin Tai is right on! If only people could think like a panda! I’d bet that most of us have some kind of chat going on in our heads about how a panda might sound if given a voice, and if we all met, my guess is our panda voice would sound pretty much the same, and we would understand each other’s ” panda-ese” ! I also am proud to call Bruce in KC a friend, and can assure you he has visited the Gao family many times!
I can only wonder if little Ms. Zhen Zhen will take after her brother & sister, Climbers of the Trees! It is an honor to peek into their world, watch their little personalities develop, and I so appreciate the time the keepers and staff take to post updates and exam videos.
November 27th, 2007 at 5:16 pm
I agree….Zoom Zoom it is… I mean really #30, must you be so realistic… Everyone on here comes for the same reason, the genuine love of the Panda Bear. Reading the Posts by the keepers and the reactions of the bloggers is just getting an overall idea of everyone’s thoughts…
Yah, everyone knows Panda’s can’t talk, but so what…. If we want to think that Tai has nicknamed his little cousin, then what’s the harm. Lighten up a bit and enjoy what everyone has to say, it’s a blast!
Finally saw the little one out of the den today. If I had my way I’d have the cam on all the time, but ah yes, life gets in the way…..
Have a great evening of Panda Watching everyone, and oh yes it was nice to see that AZ has their cam back online too.. Man talk about Mei Lan withdrawl…… Goodness me…
November 27th, 2007 at 5:28 pm
I love you Precious! You are so cool! I wish I could see you in person. ” Precious” really does fit you well. Zoom Zoom probably fits you too! I send my love, blessings, and greetings! (now i can finally call you by a real name!!)
November 27th, 2007 at 5:40 pm
Zhen Zhen is zoom zooming all over the place. Great nickname for her, Tai. Anyone who can’t see the humor and whimsy in that is sure missing out on a lot of laughs. Zoom Zoom it is for me and Zhen Zhen!
Good job, SDZ staff. Pat yourselves on the back for all the healthy, happy babies SDZ has helped Bai Yun rear.
November 27th, 2007 at 6:22 pm
ZZ…or Zoom Zoom is a wonderful name from cuzzin Tai! After all, Tai IS the oldest panda cub among the US pandas remaining on our soil! I voted for Precious and was thrilled when she received that name.
Thank you SDZ keepers and personnel for doing such a great job taking care of our beloved pandas!
November 27th, 2007 at 6:30 pm
Oh WOW Zhen Zhen has really got her walking legs on.
Bai Yun if she gets a bit too much and you need a rest just ask and plenty of us will do some baby sitting for you!!
Oh how i’d love to pick her up and give her a cuddle.
#30 Michael where’s your sense of humour? I’ve never met Bruce but from what the others have said he’s a nice man. I actually thought it was comical what he said about Tai and zoom zoom.
Anyway back to panda cam and watching precious baby girl
November 27th, 2007 at 6:42 pm
” Precious” that’s the perfect name for this little one– it’s the name Bai probably whispers into her ear when she is holding her baby close, as she is now.
November 27th, 2007 at 6:48 pm
It’s just so sweet! It’s 5:40, and Zhen Zhen and Bai Yun are lying side by side – almost spooning – taking a little nap together. Really, it’s so charming – mom and mini-me – just sweet as can be. It’s really true what someone wrote earlier, that Bai is spending a little more time with baby these days – not sure why – maybe because Zhen Zhen has become so mobile – she feels like she needs to keep a better eye on her – and a big paw – which I also witness yesterday. Bai literally had her big pay laying across babies chest – as Zhen Zhen squirmed and squirmed, trying to get away. Bai is such a good mom! I love watching them together – and the I feel like the fun is really going to start now. Zhen Zhen had a hold of one of Bai’s ears the other day – and delighted in giving tugs on it – Bai was patient for a while – just so, so cute. She certainly lives up to her name – and is absolutely the most precious thing – like a jewel (as P. Wong said).
November 27th, 2007 at 6:50 pm
Even here in chilly (34F this morning) San Antonio, Texas, the San Diego Pandas made the radio news on local station WOAI!!! I was driving to work and heard that the cub had been named. I knew that yesterday. They pronounced is Zhen Zhen…with lots of Z’s! Had I not been driving, I would have properly informed them…
…to the extent I could.
I think they need an interpreter!
Still laughing at ” Zoom Zoom” and last night as I posted my message there was some commercial for a car or a cell phone (?) where it went ” zoom, zoom, zoom” — and I laughed again! I guess you had to be there, but it WAS funny!
Can’t watch much from work on the PandcCam, but every peek I can get I take. I’ve watched Mei Lan since shortly after birth, and it’s fun to watch this stage of Panda growth again! (AZ had their cam working the day after Thanksgiving, I believe).
I’m absolutely hooked on Pandas.
Moderator: someone asked a question earlier and I also am not certain of what you mean by ” pinging.” I know it’s not allowed, but I don’t know what you mean. A little short explanation?
Thanks!
Moderator’s note: Pinging is just a way for computers to find each other on the Internet. It has nothing to do with the content of comments to our blog site, so don’t worry about it.
November 27th, 2007 at 7:50 pm
Happy for San Diego Zoo, suit it as Panda is one of the endanger species in world.
All the success.
Tracy Ho
November 27th, 2007 at 8:09 pm
No matter what the name she has, the baby girl is always cute, lovely and precious.
There are many wonderful touching moments by watching the cam since the birth of Zhen Zhen on 3 August, which was also the birthday of my little sister (of course, +n years). Zhen Zhen has really grown up fast and I am amused to see her started walking.
Sending my love and blessings across the miles to the Precious one, Zhen Zhen ~^^
November 27th, 2007 at 8:33 pm
I think ” zoom zoom” works for me…hey, Michael – develop a sense of panda humor (hint: it’s not all black and white!) Thanks to #46 Sayuri for pointing out the adoption link. December 1 is coming up soon, so the next wish list should be posted and we can all buy some cool treats for all the critters. I am encouraging my family to buy me tshirts etc from the San Diego Zoo shop. They have some rather nice items there!
Darn it, I actually WORKED at work today and missed all the panda-cam cuteness
Paula
Moderator’s note: Our online store’s link is ShopZoo.com
November 27th, 2007 at 8:36 pm
Now that Zhen is ” zooming” let’s hope she spends some time on the ground where we see her instead of high up in the trees where SuLin seemed to spend most of her time.
Hooray, for the Atlanta cam being back – the update yesterday had an adorable picture of Lani sleeping on her climbing structure with her ” do-nut’ in the rain. But she didn’t go crazy like MeiSheng & SuLin did the night it rained in SD. I find the difference in their personalities interesting & wonder if this part of so many of the studies you are doing. MeiXiang was not a happy camper when Tai started walking, he’d take off & she’d drag him back. Lun Lun was also anxious about Lani. But then when Tai started climbing Mei let him get get so far up before she dragged down. Lun was worse with Lani – in fact it looked like she caused more falls by yanking Lani down -first time mothers, maybe. Bai just seems so laid back – been there, cubs have done that. Love em all.
November 27th, 2007 at 8:39 pm
Oh dear, it looks like Zhen is stuck under a piece of bamboo – maybe a barrier Bai put up???
November 27th, 2007 at 8:52 pm
Bai has her paws full tonight as Zhen has no intention of settling down & being cuddled – it’s been a battle for the last 10 minutes or so.
November 27th, 2007 at 8:54 pm
The darling Zhen Zhen is absolutely tormenting poor Bai, who only wants to have herself a snooze. So cute.
I keep having concerns about the little blurb that the Chinese are reporting that Mei Sheng is having some jet lag (??) problems. Would love to read an update and explanation. He is soooooo loved and a little reassurance would go a looooong way on this issue.
Thanks in advance for any info!
November 27th, 2007 at 10:40 pm
Poor Michael, who I’m sure was trying to be funny when he said pandas can’t talk, is getting beat upon by those of us who are regular bloggers on this site. Read his comments again -” panda fraud” , funny to me!! We all have different ideas, Bruce was being funny when he said Tai named his new cuzzin” Zoom Zoom” (TOO CUTE), while I said, ” of course pandas talk among themselves. How else would we know that the panda world didn’t care if Zhen was called ” Bright Star” What does a panda sound like – to me a male sounds like James Earl Jones, who has that wonderful belly laugh – this is Yang Yang in Atlanta or Morgan Freeman ( NZ) & a female is elegant like Princess Dianna. Don’t we wish>>>>>
November 27th, 2007 at 10:45 pm
Awww, am now seeing Zhen & Bai exhusted & cuddled up together. What a day & night for both of them – it’s just the beginning.
November 27th, 2007 at 11:54 pm
I was looking thru the archives for the Panda’s, and compared Su Lin to Zhen Zhen at the same age. They are about the same length, or height at 16 weeks. However, Miss Z, also known as Miss Fluffy Butt, outweighs her sister by 2 pounds. No wonder she had such a time trying to hold her end up to walk. I think she is going to take after her Momma, and not Daddy Gao Gao. But, things change. I don’t know what happened but it seems all of a sudden Zhen Zhen woke up with 2x’s more energy than last week! She just can’t sit still. Bai Yun was sleeping in the den on her back, one paw over her head, and the other hanging onto Zhen Zhen’s butt, so she couldn’t leave the den. Too funny and cute. These animals are just amazing and wonderful.
November 28th, 2007 at 5:44 am
I know Zhen Zhen is now her official name but Zoom Zoom is now in our heads (like that music you can’t get rid of!). She has taken off and there’s no stopping her now! For those who missed the AZ pandacam for that week, lcnessie has a new video on youtube which is just wonderful…the Lani & Luni show goes on. Tai is eating his breakfast with his visitors and Mei and Tian look like an old married couple…a good day in PandaLand!
November 28th, 2007 at 7:01 am
Bruce and Sooperpanna Cuzzin Tai, thanks for a major giggle! The Zoom Zoom nickname is great! In the nuclear industry we have a nickname for small, fast-moving particles; we call ‘em Zoomies. The first time I saw little Zhen Zhen motoring around, I thought ” You go, little Zoomie-girl!” What fun to watch another Panda cub explore her world! Whatever she does, and whatever her personality turns out to be, I’m sure we will all be enchanted.
Named and Walking!
She has her name, Bai’s Precious child.
She’s up on legs and we’re beguiled.
Fun times ahead for Panda fans!
Watching our Zoomie on the cams!
She’ll lead Bai Yun a merry dance.
Can’t wait to see that Cubbie Prance,
The waggling tush, that little bounce,
That extra female cubbie flounce!
Will she be Princess of the Trees?
A climber and a camera tease?
Will she be bold like Cousin Tai?
Or like her sister, sweet and shy?
A bouncy wrestler like Mei Lan?
Stay tuned, you Panda cubbie fans,
“Cause we’ll soon see. But until then,
Just watch and love precious Zhen Zhen.
November 28th, 2007 at 8:32 am
To all pandafans:
There are pictures of the arrival of Mei Sheng in Wolong on the Wolong Panda Club website. Google ‘Wolong Panda Club’, click on the first link. When on the Wolong panda club page, click on the article ‘Mei Sheng reaches Wolong and moves into…’ Lisa is also pictured with Mr Hang Zhemin.
Nice close up of Bai Yun having breakfast right now. Thank you Meerkats!
November 28th, 2007 at 8:37 am
Sorry for my spelling, it’s Mr Zhang Heming.
November 28th, 2007 at 8:50 am
Read this today – somethng new for the experts to ponder—–
Experts amazed by panda’s sexual appetite
(China Daily)
Updated: 2007-11-27 08:59
A female panda at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding in Southwest China’s Sichuan Province has caused a sensation by her love of life’s little pleasures.
The panda, Qi Yuan, is 8 years old and the mother of three cubs. In May, she mated with a male panda, but did not give birth, as expected, this autumn.
She made up for it, however, by getting jiggy with another male earlier this month. Panda expert Wang Chengdong, from the Chengdu research institute, said pandas usually mate just once a year, in spring. He said Qi Yuan was clearly an exceptionally sexually active panda and would hopefully give birth this time around.
November 28th, 2007 at 8:58 am
It is interesting to me to watch how mellow Tai Shan has become since he is on his own. I wonder if the solitary life makes a panda more mellow or not. Watching Sheng interact with Su Lin at the Howdy Gate I realized that he became much more lively in the presence of another bear, and so did she in reaction to his prompting.
As I see Mei Lan grow up and Lun Lun be less receptive to her playful prompting, although Lun Lun sometimes still initiates play, I can see the maturation process going on before my eyes. I wonder if Mei Lan will mellow out too when it is her turn to be weaned early next year (2008). Once again all us pandaholics will go through ” growing pains” with her.
This brings me to Zhen Zhen. We are all anticipating a very lively cub with much interaction between Bai Yun and Zhen Zhen. Since I didn’t have the privilege of watching Bai’s previous 3 cubs at this age, I don’t know how much they interacted with her. I know that Su Lin spent most of her time up in the trees, and rarely did I see her playing/wrestling with Bai Yun. She definitely was more mellow with her mother than Tai was with Mei Xiang.
I have read that Mei Sheng was much more interactive with Bai Yun than Su Lin was. So, we wait and see whether it is a factor of personality or sex that determines how much a cub interacts with its mother as it matures. Mei Lan leads me to believe it is a matter of personality, not sex. As fiesty and zoom zoom locomotive as Zhen appears to be now, I am leaning toward a very active cub who Bai will enjoy playing with in the year to come.
November 28th, 2007 at 9:37 am
To answer #31 question if they brought Zhen Zhen out for the naming ceremony. No they did not, she is with her mom and will be until mom is ready for her to be seen by her adoring fans.
November 28th, 2007 at 10:13 am
Great pictures this morning of Zhen Zhen mouthing bamboo. It must feel great on all the teeth coming in.
November 28th, 2007 at 11:59 am
Little Zhen Zhen is famous…. Was at the gym last night and on the TV’s, low and behold her picture/story made the Vancouver, BC news…. Ahhhh how sweet it is. (I’m sure the ladies thought I was nuts, as I let out a happy gasp!!), then of course had to tell baby’s whole story and about Mei going to China.. I think I may have well let’s say ” swayed” a few to check out the Panda Cams… But, must spread all the Panda News…..
She’s all curled up in a little ball right now, just snoozing away…. Mommy better get her rest while she can. ha ha ha..
November 28th, 2007 at 2:24 pm
Thanks to the Meerkats for the close-ups of Zhen Zhen the last couple of days. I feel like I could reach out and ruffle her fluffy coat. Also love the debut photo with the red background–reminds me a lot of Su Lin’s.
When I see the pictures of the pandas next to the pandacam screen, I am amazed that SDZ has had SEVEN of these gorgeous creatures during the years. What an accomplishment to care for and nurture that many representatives of such a rare species in one place–including raising four cubs. We pandalovers are so fortunate to be able to reap the benefits of the zoo’s long commitment to the bears.
November 28th, 2007 at 2:39 pm
I think Zhen Zhen is perfect for this absolutely ” precious” panda cub. Tai Shan’s got some serious competition for cutest panda! I voted numerous times on Zhen Zhen, and am glad it was the winning name. It’s also amazing to think at how successful the San Diego Zoo’s been with breeding giant panda. Four cubs is a number to behold! Thanks to all the wonderful staff who have worked so hard to have this cub. Though I am just a single panda fan, I think I speak for us all in saying that Zhen Zhen is cute as you can get! Good job, Bai Yun. You’ve done it again!
November 28th, 2007 at 3:00 pm
Zoom Zoom is awesome Thanks Cozzin Tai!!
November 28th, 2007 at 5:09 pm
Zhen Zhen is so cute, nice name. Thanks for all the updates, I read them every day, and check the Panda Cam. Other cams, too! Also, thanks for a better photo of our new Zhen Zhen. l Hope to get over to San Diego, when she’s available for visitors!
November 28th, 2007 at 5:17 pm
Just been checking on little ‘Miss Vavoom’ – I think her ‘Zoom Zoom’ has run out of steam for today as she is still resting in the corner of Bai’s bedroom, what a busy three days those little legs have had.
Margaret 87#
I have been fortunate to have seen all 4 of Bai’s cubs grow from birth, like human families there has been slight differences in their characters.
Bai’s first cub Hua Mei was always charismatic and Bai spent many hours attending to her needs – she had an extended stay at SDZ and developed a ’smiling face’ like her mom, it was so painful when Hua Mei eventually left for her homeland.
Mei Sheng was a ‘mommies boy’ he did not like the time when it came for separation from Bai, he loved extra cuddles from his mom.
Su Lin is now a beautiful ‘lady’ who adapted to independence more quickly than our lovely Mei Sheng – like all human children they developed in different ways.
I feel certain that Zhen Zhen – ‘Zoom Zoom’ will keep us all on our toes, including Bai, with her antics in the forthcoming weeks, especially when she displays her ‘Vavoom’ and Bai spends her days chasing her to bring her under control.
Congratulations to all the staff and keepers at SDZ, you have done a wonderful job by caring for all the Panda’s and the four cubs that Bai has given us….
November 28th, 2007 at 8:34 pm
I find it interesting that both Tai Shen and Zhen Zhen are attracted to sleeping on the drainage covers. I wonder why their preference is to those spots among all the other (perhaps more comfortable) sleeping places; any guesses?
November 28th, 2007 at 8:42 pm
How fortunate we’ve been to have so many panda cubs to watch. As Mei Sheng grew up, we had Tai ” the terror” & Su Lin (2 in one year), then came Lani & now Zhen to love. As one grows up another one has been there to marvel over & compare. I think in a couple of months Lun Lun (ZA) will start trying to wean Lani -I read that many panda are weaned around 18 months & girls seem easier than Momma boys.
Knowing we have Zhen to watch zooming around & what antics she’ll perform will have us tuned to the cam all the time.
November 28th, 2007 at 8:47 pm
Love the name Zhen Zhen and also cuzzin Tai’s nickname for her (thanks to Unkie Bruce), Zoom Zoom! It’s fun to see her moving around so much now and we’ll enjoy seeing her unique personality develop, too.
We’re all so fortunate to be able to share this special time when the SDZ does its part in nurturing these lovely bears and makes sure that they have a better chance of surviving the challenges they face in China. It certainly gives us some hope for the world and its wildlife.
November 28th, 2007 at 9:33 pm
I had been waiting and waiting for the time her name was determined. It was a precious moment for Zhen Zhen, wasn’t it? It was for me, too.
Everyday I watch her with the Panda Cam and the picture showing her growth little by little but her seady growth gives me a lot of evergy and peace of mind.
I wish she will be growing in good health.
November 28th, 2007 at 10:49 pm
Although not a frequent contributor to this fabulous blog, I can claim to have read every entry since the birth of Su Lin. Thanks to all who make this possible, SDZ staff, fellow bloggers, Meercats and not least the Pandas. Pamela G and P.Wong have written some wonderful pieces, poems and conversations showing the cyberspace knowledge of Mei Sheng and his dad!
As Zhen Zhen, Zoom Zoom or Zoomie has found her footing after a strenuous weekend of practice we are comparing her with our previous cubs. When Tai and Su were born 18 days apart, when ever Tai achieved some new skill we would anxiously wait for Su to follow suit. Last year we had Mei Lan and this year Zhen. On Super Bowl Sunday, 2/5/06 I have many Postcard pictures of Su nursing, playing all over Bai and then taking to her climbing structure. What will Zhen treat us to on that day in about 2 months time?
There are similarities and differences in these unique bundles of love and we are so very, very fortunate to have such an intimate relationship with the Pandas and people represented here from around the world.
Thank you to everyone and blessings to everyone as we approach the Christmas Season.
November 29th, 2007 at 3:24 am
Poor little Zhen Zhen, everytime i looked on panda cam yesterday (wednesday) she was asleep in the corner of the room. She’ll soon work out that if you keep on ” zooming” around that it catches up with you and you just have to sleep. I’d like to think it was because she was celebrating getting her name and also finding her little paws!
I bet her weight gaining will slow down now that she’s up and about.
I hope that Mei Sheng will soon recover from his ” jet lag” . Hopefully he should be out of quarantine in the next few days. I wonder what he will think of ” real snow” .
November 29th, 2007 at 7:07 am
9:05 am here in Michigan and our little miss precious is already ” Gadding” about outside the den! She is an early riser! And she is looking much more ” stable” this morning…..zooming around and not looking so wobbly!!
You go girl!! Get out there and see what this big bright world has to show you!!! Have a good day sweet one!!!
November 29th, 2007 at 7:54 am
It appears that miss Zhen Zhen is not spending much time in the den these days. Once mobile she and Bai Yun seem to spend more time out in spaces. I imagine the hard concrete floor is a bit cooler and harder than what she was use to in the den. But when you are tired out from your new skill of walking and keeping up with mom, any safe clean quiet place to sleep will do.
November 29th, 2007 at 8:59 am
# 95-Hazel–How wonderful it must have been to watch all of Bai Yun’s cubs grow up–you must have so many lovely memories. Thanks for sharing your perspective.
Also, thanks to all the bloggers who have kept me laughing over ” Zoom Zoom,” ” Miss Z,” ” Miss Vavoom,” and all the other names for Precious. And it was great to read Pamela G’s latest poem about the baby. You all are very creative. I can’t wait to read what other nicknames Zhen Zhen acquires as she goes out into the world.
November 29th, 2007 at 9:22 am
# Michael
Apparently, you’ve never received a BEAR-HUG in your entire life. That’s why you don’t know how to give one. Why don’t you go play with Tai Shan, Su Lin and Mei Lan – they can show you how to do it.
Bai Yun, Mei Xiang and Lun Lun can teach you a thing or two about BEAR-ETIQUETTE and a thing or two about growing up to be a nice bear, I mean gentleman.
Or, you can hang around Gao Gao, Tian Tian and Yang Yang and learn how to be BEAR-SLAPPIN-HAPPY.
The best thing for you to do is go to SDZ Panda Bear Shop, buy a couple of stuffed panda bears and practice doing bear-hugs. I assure you it is great therapy.
November 29th, 2007 at 9:34 am
#105, You made me laugh out loud… Perfectly said… Too funny….
November 29th, 2007 at 10:43 am
the new check-up video is great our little Zoom Zoom was up on her feet and moving along, everyone seemed to enjoy her starting to be mobile. They did the exam on the floor mat
November 29th, 2007 at 11:03 am
Just watched ZZ at her exam yesterday and can’t believe how BIG she’s gotten. What a good girl she was. If I’d been there I would have stayed on the floor and played with her, but I guess the handlers can’t do that. She really is a precious little girl.
November 29th, 2007 at 2:20 pm
We may have to call her Zoom Zoom or ZZ. I note the reporters are already misprounouncing the name but I suppose that is not unusual. I kind of like ZZ myself. She is so cute pulling herself up to walk a bit. She needs her rest because once she is fully able to walk she is never going to be still though she might want to take over big sister Su Lin’s tree.
November 29th, 2007 at 3:47 pm
Hmmm – the last few times I have checked on Zhen Zhen – she’s been sitting in the corner. Wonder why Bai Yun gave her a ” time out” – too much tugging on mom’s ear while she tried to nap?
November 29th, 2007 at 3:47 pm
Just watched the new video of Miss Fluffy Butt’s exam. I would LOVE to be able to hold her. Watching ZZ play yesterday was great! Thanks to the camera personnel for job well done!
November 29th, 2007 at 3:51 pm
Oooh – completely off topic – but I just checked in on the Polar Cam and noticed that it’s Snow Day on Saturday at Polar Bear Plunge. You know I will be on the web bright and early to check out all the fun!
November 29th, 2007 at 4:51 pm
Dear Denise #96,
I also was tickled by the drainage sleeping location
I suspect that Miss Zhen ended up in that corner because the floor might be a bit lower in that area and it became a bit much to roll her way out. Therefore, she decided to take a nap 
What a Cutie she is!
To the SDZ Staff: The latest exam video is Marvelous!
To All: If you haven’t seen Mei and Lun on you tube…watch the LC Nessie Video titled: playing in the bamboo forest…Mei Lan is 5 months old in that video. It will give you all a hint or two about the next ’steps’ Zhen is going to make
Sincerely,
Bobbie Wood
November 29th, 2007 at 5:20 pm
Thanks Darlene, I’m glad you enjoyed it.
November 29th, 2007 at 5:26 pm
Oh wow, i’ve just watched this weeks exam of Zhen Zhen. She wriggled so much but she is so cute.
I can’t believe how big she is now. I noticed the keeper had a slice of apple and what looked like bamboo leaves. Is she able to have them yet or does she just lick them or play with them?
She is now growing so fast, i can’t believe she’s now 17 weeks old. Oh what i’d give to have a cuddle of her. The keepers are so lucky when they get to have a hold of her at her weekly exams.
November 29th, 2007 at 5:35 pm
Yes, snow day is coming for the polar bears! Perhaps Chinook will take a roll in it to get some of the dirt off her. I tend to think she prefers being ” brown” . Too funny to see the bears together – 1 chocolate and 2 vanilla! I swear there is not a square inch of white on her when she decides to get down and dirty. No wonder the keepers spend so much time cleaning the plunge!
November 29th, 2007 at 6:47 pm
Conversation with Gao Gao #22
Gao Gao:
(sings ” Kangding Love Song,” Chinese folksong loosely translated by P Wong)
Galloping horses along mountain paths among slivers of wispy clouds,
High above, brightly shining on beautiful Kangding Town,
O delicate crescent moon…
Shining on beautiful Kangding Town.
Li family daughters with their beautiful figures,
Zhang family sons with their loving ardor.
O delicate crescent moon…
Sons with their loving ardor.
Firstly, they love their beautiful figures,
Secondly, they love their homemaking artistry.
O delicate crescent moon…
They love their homemaking artistry.
The daughters of the world are for me to love,
The sons of the world, they’re for you to implore.
O delicate crescent moon…
They’re for you to implore.
Tourist: Hello, Gao Gao.
G: Oh, hello, Mr. Tourist.
T: Hey, you’re singing the song I heard earlier today.
G: Yes, it’s one of my favorites.
T: Too bad Madame Bai Yun didn’t get to hear it…
G: Oh, but she did.
T: Huh?
G: I made some secret arrangements to pipe it into the den area.
T: Really?
G: Didn’t you notice?
T: Notice what?
G: That when they played the song…
T: Huh?
G: That darling Precious started zooming about the premises?
T: You mean she got to listen in on her naming ceremony, too?
G: Yup.
(back in the den area)
Zhen Zhen: ZZZzzzzz.
November 29th, 2007 at 6:59 pm
I sure hope Michael gets a ” sense of humor” for the Holidays!! Yes, pandas do communicate, they make me smile everytime of see them on the panda cam!!!
November 29th, 2007 at 7:23 pm
Well, I see the December Wish List is posted- thanks to Marla, our beautiful San Diego Zoo elf! A couple of you guys sneaked in and have already bought panda toys, I see! Here’s the link:
https://www.sandiegozoo.org/sl/wishlist/index.cfm
So many wonderful gifts, I can’t begin to choose – and what a GREAT feeling to spend a little or a lot…and know you’re helping an innocent animal, quite possibly one facing extinction.
Now I must go watch the latest zoom-zoom video..and that’s even while the Cowboys game is on! (I do have my priorities….)
Paula in TX
November 29th, 2007 at 8:13 pm
Aggghhh – our internet server was down all day today so missed Miss ZZ’s zooming today – will check time lapse. But several have recalled the antics of other cubs-one night I was watching Tai who was just learning how to climb trees. Okay, he got up the tree fine…..now how to get down…..ooopppsss…..help, help I can’t get down!!!! One of the keepers had to get a ladder & get him down. There are several videos on youtube with his keepers luring him out of trees, As the NZ tried to make sure Tai was secure inside by 5pm, they always groaned when Tai climbed a tree in the afternoon(where he fell alseep) as they knew the keepers were in for a long night. Another night Tai was high up in tree I watched a keeper using everything in her power to entice him down -she called, circled the tree, begged & pleaded, she had an apple on a stick, got Mommy Mei Xiang there to give him a talking to – nothing worked until 11:30pm when he finally scrambled down…you were waiting for me….and the best one was the night of a terrible storm & here again Tai is sound asleep high in a tree – it’s pouring rain, thundering & lightning , the tree is swaying, the keeper & Mei Xiang are frantic. Finally Tai SLOWLY came down from his perch & then wanted to play with his poor, exhausted keeper before heading inside where he hassled mommy for a while Yep Tai ” the terror”
So, what kind of a personality will Miss ZZ (zoom zoom) have. What fun we’ll all have in the few months – what do we know so far. She’s been very quiet & laid back until she wants something & then makes her wishes known. While other cubs seemed to have struggled more with walking once she figured out to get her back legs up she took right off. The fun is just beginning.
November 30th, 2007 at 7:52 am
Where is ZZ’s Chinese character posted?
Moderator’s note: We don’t have it posted on the Web site.
November 30th, 2007 at 7:59 am
I invite you to read or re-read Miss Pamela’s poem from Dec 06 just go to archives and search ” good benefits’
Iv’e been checking to see who’s been naughty or nice and it seems that everyone has been really good this year and you know what that means, TREATS and GOODIES. All the animals are getting ready to hang their stocking, the pandas are black the zebras are stripped and polar bears are white and then there are all the mulit-colored ones, what diversity. From the smallest to the biggest, stockings are everywhere with hopes of being filled. So my question is , whats the chance that all the stocking will be filled, just alittle something will bring so much joy to all our animal friends and I’m sure bring joy to your big hearts and who knows just maybe Panda Claws will put something in your stocking. Miss Pamela,That poem still remains in our hearts this time of the year.
Moderator’s note: Look for the poem ” A Christmas Visit from Panda Claws” in comment #2 from the Good Benefits blog: http://www.sandiegozoo.org/wordpress/default/good-benefits/
November 30th, 2007 at 9:16 am
#113 – That is a good rationalization of why ZZ is sleeping over the drain. I’m sure the floor slopes, and she was no doubt tuckered out after her ” walk.”
I have thought that Tai Shan possibly liked the drain because it was probably cooler–there should be a breeze coming up from there. It’s great that it is so close to the viewing area. Good planning!
November 30th, 2007 at 9:31 am
I love zhen zhen and I adore the new picture of her in the panda index. I can’t wait till her and big mama start playing together. I love pandas and thank you for the webcam. Love from jersey! Xoxo
November 30th, 2007 at 10:01 am
#96, 113, 123 – #123 got it right. I visited Tai Shan in October and the volunteer who talks about the pandas said that Tai Shan started sleeping over the grate in the hottest part of the summer because the cooler air came up under him and he has enjoyed sleeping there ever since. It’s great for the visitors because it is right near the glass and you can almost feel like you can reach out and touch him.
November 30th, 2007 at 10:11 am
Arrrgh! It’s going to be so hard to call her Zhen Zhen. I just keep calling her Cutsie like I did when she didn’t have a name. Why must they make us wait and THEN get used to a real name?!?! Yes, Moderator, I DO know that it’s Chinese tradition, but STILL. Poor Michael #30, Why is everyone picking on him? He made a funny comment! So did the rest of you, what’s different about his that lets you pick on him? I’m sure he has read every one of those mean comments. His poor heart is scarred. My point is… No picking on people! He reads the stuff, too.
November 30th, 2007 at 10:19 am
Pamela….you are truly gifted. I just read your Panda Claws story from last year. I am fairly new to the SDZ blogs, and realize there is so much to read. I’ve started at the beginning and when I get down and need a pick-me-up the blogs are a great place to visit.
I printed off your poem about Bai’s Cub #4, superimposed it over my favorite pix of Bai and it’s now haning on the wall in my Panda room. Thank you sssooo much for that. Now I’m going to have to print off your Panda Claws one too! Great holiday decoration!!
Can’t wait to see more of ZZ’s zooming around. I have watched Tai since his birth and can’t wait to see ZZ messing with Bai the way Tai did with Mei Xiang and Mei Lan is still with Lun Lun. Great fun is ahead.
November 30th, 2007 at 11:05 am
When can I get a flight to Kansas City? I think I’m in love with Bruce!
CJ
November 30th, 2007 at 11:32 am
Just how long is Lisa going to leave us in suspense? Did Mei Sheng willingly get in his crate to be flown to Chengdu or didn’t he? And what happened when he got to Wolong?
November 30th, 2007 at 11:56 am
Maybe it’s just me, but Zhen Zhen looks much smaller in her official portrait compared to her most recent exam video. Maybe her portrait was done earlier and being held for release until after she was named? No matter! She’s still the cutest little thing around.
The team looked like they were all thoroughly enjoying themselves during the last exam, even while trying to measure a very squirmy little girl. Well done!
November 30th, 2007 at 12:10 pm
Awwww! The cuteness factor just went off the scale! Zoom Zoom is rolling around in ‘her corner’ by the grate. I’m not sure if she’s got a small piece of bamboo to play with or not. If not, then she’s just playing with her paws – putting them in her mouth, and more. Beyond adorable! Tai Shan nailed this one on her nickname – she figured out her feet and hasn’t looked back! Definitely Tai’s cousin!!
November 30th, 2007 at 12:14 pm
Zhen Zhen is OBSESSED with the drain cover. I’ve been watch her play on it for a long time – and I’m not sure if she is trying to pry the lid off of it – but she is one very determined panda. Boy is she going to be pooped – I expect a crash and moment now – followed by a looong nap!
November 30th, 2007 at 1:53 pm
Kris #116 – I agree with you about how Chinook is always dirty. Oh, how I wish I could be there when they are given snow. I think they will be in heaven!!
November 30th, 2007 at 2:37 pm
Deborah #121, I hope this answers your question.
You can see Zhen Zhen’s name in Chinese characters by clicking on the video link ” Our Precious Panda Cub” at the top of the page.
Watch closely after Mr. Carmi Penny’s speech when they unveil the first banner showing the Chinese characters, then the second unveiling showing the translation ” Zhen Zhen” , and the final unveiling showing the English meaning, ” Precious” .
The naming ceremony was very enjoyable and entertaining. We were very happy and proud to have attended this memorable event.
November 30th, 2007 at 2:38 pm
Tai Shan is very happy that his little cousin Zoom Zoom is trying to be like him – even sleeping on the drain grate. He hopes that miss Zoom Zoom gets a black rubber tub to play in soon too!
November 30th, 2007 at 2:59 pm
Run, Run, Zhen Zhen, have Fun, Fun!
How to remember the proper way to pronounce her name!
#126, I think the reason they wait 100 days is to be sure an infant cub survives. I think our forefathers and foremothers did the same thing before they had a baby christened. Often they would christen more than one child in the same family at the same ceremony, at a time distant from the births. Infant and child mortality for our ancestors was common.
November 30th, 2007 at 3:15 pm
I see Miss Z is living up to another part of her name……….zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz! Too pooped to Panda. Fell asleep on the grate and has been there morning and afternoon.
November 30th, 2007 at 3:17 pm
All this talk about drain cover and bamboo with ZZ brings back memories of Mei Lan when she started to walk at about this time last year. I had forgotten that she liked to play with drains, and the water ” fountain.” I remember her lying on her back with all 4 legs in the air playing with the water fountain. Lun Lun would come and bat her away from the drains. I also remember Lun dragging her by one of her rear legs in Dec – Jan when Lannie would get into something or a place that Lun did want her in. I hope Bai Yun doesn’t start that. It worried me every time I saw it. I always thought mothers moved their young by the backs of their necks.
I loved Pamela’s Poem last year too, Panda Claws, and hope that there is an update now that Mei Sheng is in China as you whispered in his ear last year.
November 30th, 2007 at 3:28 pm
zoom zoom’s cousin mei lan says zoomie needs toys!
yes, mei lan talks too and she talks to cousin tai on the special secret panna phone in her special secret panna studio where she practices her ballet and has a vapors couch and a wall of mirrors. she has special magic panna baway thoeth an everything.
just a note about panda speech…they lisp and can’t pronounce the letter ” l” …it’s the fangs
a note to cinjin: bruce in KC is handsome as well as funny!
November 30th, 2007 at 3:43 pm
Zhen Zhen is exploring the bedroom right now. She is watching, attempting, hesitating and then trying again. SOOOOOOOOO CUTE !!!!! my heart is melting!
thank you for the close up, Meerkats!
November 30th, 2007 at 4:01 pm
Great black and white camera work on Precious today, Friday. She has made it in and out of the nest on her own.
November 30th, 2007 at 4:03 pm
Who could look at this ” Precious” panda baby and not fall in love with her? Today is the first day I’ve had a chance to see her moving around so much. As she was trying to climb over the ledge from one room to the other and not quite making it, I found myself scrunching around in my chair trying to help her! What a pick-me-up each time I watch Zhen Zhen. How fortunate we are. Thanks SDZ, and thanks to your panda staff. They’re wonderful!
November 30th, 2007 at 5:55 pm
#135 Bruce – Tai sure did spend hours in his plastic tubs (& I spent hours laughing as he fell in & out of it). Seemed llike everyday he was into to something -always good for a laugh.
#139 labwitch – ok, I can see Lani on her panna phone talking to Tai about their cuzzin zoom zoom. Too funny.
November 30th, 2007 at 7:38 pm
Awwww Zhen Zhen is so cute I love Panda’s so much! And Zheb Zhen is the cutest panda I’ve ever seen!!!!!!!! Even in Florida I have seen the pana’s at the zoo and haven’t seen ” precious” yet However pictures can show a-lot!
November 30th, 2007 at 9:06 pm
I’m really glad you picked Zhen Zhen because the panda really is a Precious thing. They are very Precious animals. Thank You
November 30th, 2007 at 9:50 pm
I watch Zhen Zhen every day on the panda cam. I was visiting the zoo the day she was conceived when her mom was showing ” interest” in her dad! Ever since I’ve felt this precious little girl was part mine
I love the name (of course I voted for it). I look forward to watching our baby girl grow up and be as sweet as her brother and sisters before her.
November 30th, 2007 at 10:40 pm
Zhen Zhen,.. I love it. So tiny and so precious. SDZ was fantastic and I’m so glad I can keep reading about this little tiny bear. Good luck Zhen Zhen,… and congratulations on those first few steps. Blessings to you and SDZ !!!
December 1st, 2007 at 2:25 am
I wonder how Bai Yun is going to handle ZZ when she gets too frisky. I remember Bai Yun flipping Su Lin over whenever Su gets to mischievous.
I read in Atlanta Zoo diary that Lun Lun gives MeI Lan a stern look and Mei understands it. Talk about BEAR-ETIQUETTE. On the other hand Mei Xiang just gives in even if he steps over her just to get through the small window. Boy, isn’t he spoiled.
December 1st, 2007 at 6:59 pm
LOL at the commercial preceding the pandacam – yea to the Zoo for hopefully bringing in some Revenue for the pandas! I wish my 2 boys were young enough for the Panda Robot, but maybe they will buy one for me!
Speaking of buying…
https://www.sandiegozoo.org/sl/wishlist/index.cfm
How wonderful to see so many items on the December Wish List already gone this first day of December! Tax-deductible, folks! I bet little zoom-zoom and all the other critters will have so much fun with their new enrichment items and other gifts. ‘Tis the season! I’ve only been gone 1 week, but I sure miss San Diego…what a beautiful city.
Paula in TX
December 1st, 2007 at 9:11 pm
While I’m not so fond of the commercial as Paula #149, all will be forgiven if we can see more of the pandas on panda cam. Hours of shots of empty rooms today…Meerkats, where are you?? And isn’t there a camera that will cover the other side of that door that camera #11 looks towards? It is amazing that ZZ seems to be growing up so fast (must be all that beauty sleep she’s been getting)–she looked so big in her latest exam! We’re supposed to have some snow here on the East Coast tonight–wish I could send some for the pandas to roll around in.
December 2nd, 2007 at 2:47 pm
#117 P WONG
So that’s the song that was piped in. I heard it too. No wonder they’re so happy. (Sigh.)
December 2nd, 2007 at 3:55 pm
Does anyone know when Zhen Zhen will make her public debut? I think I remember reading something about her being out sometime in January.
December 2nd, 2007 at 4:53 pm
Precious she is! I love the panda bear more than anything in the world. I loved that the community got a chance to get involved with the pandas. I was counting down untill it’s one-hundreth day. I had the whole eighth grade at my school vote online the day the names were posted. We could not have chosen a better suiting name for our little Zhen Zhen. And thank you San Diego for really helping to keep the pandas a thriving species. I
December 2nd, 2007 at 4:56 pm
… hope one day I will have the honor and privelige of working at the SanDiego Zoo.
December 2nd, 2007 at 7:09 pm
Hello fans of Zhen Zhen,
This past weekend, I had my 6 1/2 year old Grand-son come to visit and we looked at little Zhen. ” ZEN ZEN!” , he read with delight. Therefore, my fellow padaholics, Zhen has a new nickname at my home 
Somehow, I simply love it!
I love the nicknames! Little Miss Zoom Zoom and all others
Lotsafun, huh!!!
Bobbie Wood
December 3rd, 2007 at 10:48 am
# 149 Paula #150 Frances – while I’m happy that the SDZ is getting more revenue for their research programs I find it very frustrating to find the commercial video gets stuck & it seems to take forever to get to the panda cam. Plus one would think with all this advertising they would have more cams – All I saw today was black – Miss ZZ must have been out exploring.
#150 – Hey there Frances, I’m sending snow to SD – we got 8 inches & we’re not even in the ” snow beltâ€. Now we have freezing rain. But will put snow in bottle & ship off (don’t we wish we could)
December 3rd, 2007 at 10:21 pm
Thanks, # 156 Maureen, for taking care of the snow–we didn’t have that much.
I know sponsorship is a necessary evil, but I agree with the other bloggers who have taken exception to the loud sound and the added difficulty of loading panda cam. I think that most of us would contribute to keep panda cam going–make it part of the wishlist. I wish Robo Panda well, but I want to mellow out and laugh and awww with Zhen Zhen, Bai Yun, Su Lin, and Gao Gao (who was hilarious lying on his side with his eyes covered this afternoon). I guess everybody will have to remember to turn down or mute the sound while the commercial is going.
December 4th, 2007 at 6:39 am
Margaret#138, Miss Margaret when I spoke to Mei Sheng last christmas about going home he said ” Panda Claws I think I am beginning to understand that I am a Panda and have a responsibility to my kind” Now as I check to make sure Mei Sheng’s transition has gone well he tells me” Panda Claws as hard as it was for me to leave it was getting harder for me to stay. My mom and my sister have done so much for our kind, as will my sisters Su Lin and the new one Zhen Zhen, but now it is my turn for this is who I am, a Panda. My friends have made my journey easy with all their love and prayers and I keep them in my heart” As you can see Mei Sheng will be fine. Panda Claws
December 4th, 2007 at 12:50 pm
looking at ” little miss thing” perched on the threshhold between the area where the den is and the next area mom has open to her….she looks like she is sitting there saying…
” unh..unh…this is such a big step! But mom goes over this so easily and it looks like such a wonderful place to explore..lot’s of things for me to get into….unh…unh…I just have to try harder…..it seems my legs are not quite long enough..! oh come on! I want to follow my mo but I keep rolling back off and into the same old area!”
she is just adorable rolling around and trying ot explore!! and mom is just letting her figure it out for herself! You go Bai!!
December 4th, 2007 at 12:53 pm
Okay – I don’t know what’s cuter – ZZ walking towards us, or walking away from us!! She makes my days a LOT better to get through.
December 4th, 2007 at 8:25 pm
I just saw ZZ’s latest video. Wow, she is so cute. I need a panda baby!
December 4th, 2007 at 8:41 pm
I watched the pandacam today and saw Zhen crawl over the small step to go outside! Not sure if it was the first time, but it took her a while to get her ..umm… somewhat large back-side up…finally, over and then out of sight! Mama disliked this and immediately came into the den — and how cool it is to see how small Zhen is only when her mom walks by! What astonishing beauty. Thanks, web-cam folks!
Paula
December 4th, 2007 at 9:01 pm
Even the casual panda cam observers (as opposed to those of us who are true fanatics) in my office today were totally charmed by ZZ trying and trying to get over that sill and cheering for her when she made it over and marveling as she turned and started trying to go over the other way. More of Bai Yun’s very special ” how to be a baby panda” training! I agree with Rhoda #160, but she forgot ZZ sleeping, ZZ under the bamboo, ZZ any time with Bai Yun. Just more precious every day.