Conserving Ursids: Giant Panda
Posted at 10:13 am May 8, 2008 by Suzanne Hall
Of the eight living species of bears, the giant panda is the only one currently classified as endangered on the International Union for the Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species. This assessment is based on the estimation that less than 2,500 mature pandas live in the wild today, and this population is fractured into small groups of no more than 250 individuals apiece. Clearly, the most significant conservation threat to the panda is human encroachment: this results in less available habitat overall and fragmentation of remaining habitat.
Habitat pressure from an ever-increasing human population is a common problem for many endangered species. In China, where the population is thought to have exceeded 1.32 billion last year and continues to grow at a reasonably slow rate of 0.6% per year (as of 2003), nearly 8 million people are added annually. Housing and feeding these people, and supporting the amazingly fast economic development of China, requires resources. The clearing of land for agricultural purposes represents a significant threat to the panda today.
Fortunately, the Chinese government began taking action to protect the panda in the latter half of the 1900s. A system of panda reserves was created to set aside habitat for the bear, whose populations had already contracted into the shrunken spaces allotted to them. Unfortunately, the subpopulations have been isolated from one another, separated by farms and restricted to high mountain areas.
Some corridors have been created recently that could allow for movement of bears between subpopulations, and efforts to replenish bamboo in low-lying areas of some reserves have begun. Steps such as these aim to mitigate the impact of past habitat fragmentation, but the current small groupings of bears and their relative isolation from one another remains a great challenge to the species. Not only does such fragmentation limit genetic exchange and reduce the potential for mating opportunities, but it makes the panda especially vulnerable to food shortages.
As you know, the panda subsists nearly exclusively on bamboo. Usually, this food source is an abundant, fast-growing plant that literally surrounds the bears in their habitat. However, the bamboo life cycle is such that at intervals the plant will experience a mass die-off, affecting nearly all plants of that species. When this occurs, pandas must switch to alternate bamboo species to fill their stomachs. Unfortunately, another side effect of habitat fragmentation is that switching to another species of bamboo may not be a viable option for some panda subpopulations. Chance plays a role in determining the abundance of various bamboos in a particular pocket of habitat, and if a panda was unlucky in that it lives in an area with a low diversity of bamboo species, it could be stranded without food. Without good corridors connecting pockets of habitat, the pandas within areas of mass die-off may starve.
According to the Red List, the most significant factor in conserving the panda today is habitat restoration. To this end, China has worked to increase forestation in and around reserves. Several programs banning logging and discouraging hillside farming in previously forested areas have been implemented. According to a 2006 report of the United Nations Food and Agricultural Organization, these progressive policies have resulted in gains in forested area in China. Continued progress with such efforts should ultimately benefit the panda, as well as other species that share its habitat.
How can you, as a concerned global citizen, contribute to efforts to improve the outlook for this endangered bear? Since the government of China is the largest agent in promoting positive changes for the giant panda, it may seem that an ordinary person might not be able to have an impact. However, it is possible to offer support to organizations that work with the Chinese government to encourage conservation efforts for the panda. The World Wildlife Fund has a long history of such partnerships with Chinese ministries responsible for maintaining the panda population and currently has several habitat-oriented conservation efforts in place. Additionally, supporting efforts to promote panda research within China, using Chinese scientists, can increase pressure on the Chinese government from within. The San Diego Zoo collaborates with the Chinese Academy of Sciences, promoting the work of Chinese researchers who are studying the ecology of wild pandas.
The bottom line: preservation of wild populations of pandas is primarily dependent upon the restoration of panda habitat in China. The Chinese government holds the cards in this effort. As a global citizen, you can make the greatest difference by finding a way to contribute to continuing and future efforts to increase forestation, set aside more reserves, and reduce habitat fragmentation. With improved efforts in these areas, we may soon see the giant panda removed from the endangered species list.
Suzanne Hall is a senior research technician with the San Diego Zoo’s Giant Panda Unit.
Listen to an iZoofari Chat with Suzanne about panda conservation…
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May 9th, 2008 at 10:36 am
Suzanne, thank you once again for a very interesting piece. I’m sure I remember many years ago hearing that Pandas were in trouble because their bamboo had died off . Being quite young I didn’t think or realise what could happen as a result. I am glad the Chinese have taken saving their Pandas so seriously. How awful would the world be without them?
May 9th, 2008 at 11:39 am
While it won’t raise enormous amounts of money, we can set our search engines to www dot goodsearch dot com, a program sponsored by Yahoo. The World Wildlife Fund and Pandas International are two of the charities that get a penny every time we perform a search or purchase items from their partner vendors through the GoodShop program. This program has raised over $2400 for the WWF; much much less for PI. PI is my designated charity. Every little bit helps our beloved black and white critters.
May 9th, 2008 at 11:44 am
I should have double checked before my previous submission. Both San Diego and Atlanta Zoos participate in this project.
May 9th, 2008 at 11:54 am
Thanks , Suzanne for another great informative piece, I remember a special on researchers who put barbed wire acrossed panda corridors so that way they could determine how many pandas crossed that area by the have on the wire. They did test on the hair and the results gave them an array of information such as sex, approxament age and relationships with in the group they studied. I’m glad more corridors are being established and the Chinese are implementing forestry programs. Happy Mothers Day everyone and especially to our big mama Bai.
I would like to wish a happy birthday to Jenny the Gorilla at the Dallas zoo who turned 55 years old today. This is a testament to the great care the keepers give their charges
May 9th, 2008 at 1:05 pm
Mary #2,
WWF is a leader in work focusing on restoration of panda habitat and, by extension, wild panda populations.
May 9th, 2008 at 4:15 pm
Is it possible for a person from the US to volunteer his or her time in China to help plant more bamboo?
May 9th, 2008 at 5:56 pm
Suzanne – Thanks for another informative blog about our beloved pandas & what China is doing to help preserve the species. The big problem will be trying to educate the people about the pandas needs – bamboo & room to roam.
May 9th, 2008 at 6:12 pm
Dear Suzanne,
Thank You for another wonderful article about the Giant Pandas and their habitats,and what is being done to preserve them. We are all truly blessed by the articles the SDZ staff provides us. Keep teaching us!
Denise in St. Louis: Bless you for wanting to help plant bamboo in China! I think it probably would grow in St. Louis as well….but
beware! Read the SDZ articles on bamboo and how it grows and spreads. Wouldn’t we all enjoy planting and then having a Panda in our yard!!
Everyone: Do Not Forget to WATCH our Polar Bears have their Snow Day!!!
May 9th, 2008 at 6:52 pm
Thank you Suzanne for the detailed information concerning the pandas. I believe all we can do is hope and pray that China does the right thing to increase forestation and set aside more reserves so that the panda species will survive.
On a lighter note, I would like to resubmit the following:
Snow Day Photos: There are some wonderful photos of snow day at the zoo by kjdrill. Just Goggle
Baby panda Zhen Zhen’s first snow.
After enjoying the video, check out the slideshow that contains 87 photos. Included, there are some photos of Zhen Zhen interacting with panda keepers, Lindsay and Angie. Also in the montage, there are photos of Su Lin playing in the snow, and a few of Gao Gao eating his boo. Kjdrill was sure to get all our sweeties in the set. Lots of fun!
May 11th, 2008 at 12:04 pm
Suzanne — Bamboo flooring and furniture are becoming increasingly popular…How do I make sure that a bamboo product was not made by ruining the bears’ habitat?
May 11th, 2008 at 12:12 pm
Sammi (UK) – I just read that the Edinburgh Zoo may get 2 pandas next year – the agreement may be signed at the Olympics. If so maybe you could get there to see them.
Maureen
May 11th, 2008 at 8:50 pm
Conversation with Gao Gao #34
Tourist: Hello, Gao Gao.
Gao Gao: Hello, Mr. Tourist.
T: Now what’s going on here? You’re on your PDA again.
G: Oh, I’m managing some construction projects.
T: Construction projects?
G: I’m building tu lou complexes.
T: Huh?
G: You know, Chinese Hakka style housing.
T: Huh?
G: You see, here’s one of ‘em.
T: Shaped like the Roman Colisseum?
G: Here’s another.
T: Looks like motel building with square shaped foundation and central courtyard.
G: Yup. Only these will be fortresses.
T: Fortresses?
G: The walls are built with rammed earth 1 meter thick.
T: Oh?
G: There will be no windows on ground level.
T: Huh?
G: We’ll have well water and bamboo groves with LED lighting.
T: Oh?
G: The 2nd floor will be food storage and refrigeration equipment.
T: Impressive.
G: The 3rd and 4th floors will be VIP suites.
T: VIP suites?
G: Yeah, with trees, rock structures, caves, artificial ski slopes.
T: You aim to acquire ice making machines?
G: And there will be turrets.
T: Turrets?
G: Yeah, fitted with artillery.
T: Artillery?
G: To scare off snow leopards and other intruders.
T: So these will be closed communities?
G: Well, not quite.
T: You’ll integrate the communities?
G: We will link these buildings with catwalks on 4th level.
T: You sound like a madman.
G: No, I’m a romantic.
T: No kidding.
G: I’m building the ultimate harem complex replete with bamboo corridors.
May 12th, 2008 at 4:28 am
Has anyone heard if the panda centers have been affected by the earthquake in China???
May 12th, 2008 at 5:57 am
The Pandas would love PA today, it is snowing! I wonder if it is possible for the Panda staff, or anyone at all, to let us know if the Pandas and caretakers in Chengdu are ok since the earthquake? One more question from the knowledgeable bloggers, I can’t get LCNessie’s videos at all on Youtube, is it me or are they just gone?? Thanks so much, and Happy Panda day to all!
May 12th, 2008 at 6:30 am
My thoughts go out to all the people affected by the deadly earthquake in Sichuan province. I hope that all the staff and beloved animals are safe and well.
May 12th, 2008 at 6:31 am
Bad news of a horrible earthquake in China right outside of Chengdu. Please let us know if the Reasearch Center sustained any damage and if the panda’s and researchers are okay. Especially Mei Sheng and Hua Mei!
May 12th, 2008 at 7:04 am
Oh no, there was 7.8 earthquake in China – epicenter was in Chengdu – our hears go out to the people of China & of course are worried about the pandas & their keepers.
May 12th, 2008 at 7:05 am
Oh no, there was 7.8 earthquake in China – epicenter was in Chengdu – our hearts go out to the people of China & of course are worried about the pandas & their keepers.
May 12th, 2008 at 7:11 am
I just heard about the big earthquake in China, centered very near Wolong, with lots of human casualties. Communication doesn’t seem to be good, but I hope someone can keep us posted about the condition of the pandas and keepers there. Fingers crossed.
May 12th, 2008 at 7:17 am
Any word on the research center in Chengdu after the earthquake?
May 12th, 2008 at 7:26 am
Suzanne– Can you provide an update on whether the China panda facilities were impacted by the earthquake? Thanks
May 12th, 2008 at 7:39 am
Just read about the earthquake in China. I know that the panda reserve is in Sichuan China. Any news as to how the reserve survived?
May 12th, 2008 at 7:40 am
Hi! Got some very bad news to tell all of the pandafans. Don’t know if any of you have heard this news yet or not, but MSNBC, CNN, and Fox News has reported that Sichuan Province, China, has had a severe earthquake that registered a 7.8 on the Richter scale today. The epicenter was about 100 miles from Chengdu, and the Chengdu panda research center is not too far from there. I am very worried about the panda center, the keepers, volunteers, researchers, and the pandas over there, and whether there has been any severe damage there. Please be praying for them. I think Atlanta Zoo has a cooperation agreement with Chengdu, and I’m hoping that they have heard from their researcher that’s been there doing vocal studies. So, keep your fingers crossed, you all! The Chinese news agency, Xinhua News, has said that the death toll there could be in the thousands. With the start of the Beijing Olympics about 3 months away, this is not what China needs right now! And the situation for the pandas at Chengdu is unknown at this time. I’ll be checking the Atlanta Zoo website to see if there are any news that they have received from Chengdu. Also, Atlanta, Georgia, had another round of tornadoes again over the weekend, and hopefully, the zoo escaped this latest storm! Atlanta has already been thru this back in March.
Haven’t been on the pandacam yet. Wanted to get on this comment line to let you all know about the Chengdu, China earthquake.
Chari Mercier
St. Pete, FL
May 12th, 2008 at 7:51 am
While I don’t expect anyone to have any news quite yet, could anyone with updates let us know how the Wolong Panda Reserve was affected by the earthquake in China? The epicenter was in that area. I’ll have to go through the notes from the MSU researcher who was in the area last winter. I think her coworkers lived in the county that was most severely affected. You know we’re worried about our pandas.
May 12th, 2008 at 8:07 am
Great story. I was dismayed to hear this morning that the huge quake in China was centered in an area not far from the Panda reserves. I hope that all are well. I’m sure that everyone was frightened and the loss of life is terrible. Politically we have issues with China but we share the concern about the people and pandas dealing with this quake.
May 12th, 2008 at 8:37 am
with the news of the earthquake in China especially in the area of Chengdu I just read a report from the panda reserve that the buildings shook but no major damage and the pandas are allright. They are checking all the buildings to make sure that they are safe and secure. Sadly they are finding bodies in the high school that collapsed and a large number of children ars missing. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Chinese people at this sad and difficult time.
May 12th, 2008 at 8:47 am
I’ve just found out there’s been an earthquake close to Chengdu. Does anyone know if the panda’s are allright???
May 12th, 2008 at 9:02 am
Any word as to whether the terrible earthquake in China affected WooLong?
May 12th, 2008 at 9:26 am
Heard about major earthquake in panda reserve region. Were there any injuries at research stations?
May 12th, 2008 at 9:29 am
Is there any news from Wolong? According to the BBC, it is right at the epicenter. So much tragedy…
May 12th, 2008 at 10:00 am
I sure hope the pandas and their keepers in Wolong are safe and well after today’s big earthquake. We are all anxious for any news about them. Our thoughts and prayers are with all those who were affected.
May 12th, 2008 at 10:03 am
The quake in China is massive. So many people have died or are missing that I am also concerned about the pandas since it was only 92 km from Chengdu. Could someone pass on any information they get regarding the pandas.
May 12th, 2008 at 10:07 am
I heard about the earthquake in China today (7.8) and hope the pandas are ok. I’ve just checked on the panda club site and it says the cam is out because of internet problems – the earthquake? Anyone know any more, information is sketchy at the moment.
May 12th, 2008 at 10:29 am
Hi, I hope somebody can give an answer to this question… Do you know if the areas in Wolong and Chengdu were damaged by the recent earthquake? Any news from the condition of people and pandas in that area?
Any info will be greatly appreciated it. Thanks!
May 12th, 2008 at 10:29 am
Please, have you heard anything from China post-earthquake?
May 12th, 2008 at 10:47 am
Does anyone know if everyone is alright at the Panda research facilities in China (huge earthquake)???
May 12th, 2008 at 10:54 am
About the earthquake in Sichuan, I feel very sorry for the people.
And, I am worried sick, BBC news reads ” …the endangered giant panda may have been affected.” and ” …- but the centre could not be reached by phone.” What’s next for the pandas, I worry.
May 12th, 2008 at 11:42 am
Su Lin’s got snow. Did she steal some from the Polar Bears? She is going absolutely mad and rolling and tumbling and standing on her head. Love her.
May 12th, 2008 at 11:53 am
RE: earthquake in China
About 1,200 pandas — 80 percent of the surviving wild population in China — live in several mountainous areas of Sichuan.
The earthquake hit one of the last homes of the giant panda at the Wolong Nature Reserve and panda breeding center, in Wenchuan county, which remained out of contact, Xinhua said.
The Wolong PandaCam, a live online video feed showing the activities of the pandas at the nature reserve, stopped showing footage of the animals late Sunday night.
May 12th, 2008 at 11:53 am
I just heard about the 7.8 earthquake in China. They said that in addition to about 9000 people having died they also talked about the Woolong Panda Reserve. Their Cam went dead and there is no transmission. Has SDZ heard anything yet?
The San Diego Zoo responds: This morning (May 12), a major earthquake hit Sichuan Province in China. The epicenter was just 56 miles (90 kilometers) from Chengdu. We have received word that the Wolong Giant Panda Research Center was not seriously affected. Our research technician, Jennifer Keating, is safe and sound in Beijing.
May 12th, 2008 at 12:10 pm
Hi, again! Finally got on the pandacam. Saw Su Lin being her usual fun self acting like a little kid again! She was high up in a tree, then climbed down from the tree, ran around her exhibit area, played with bamboo and tree limbs, climbed and walked on the low tree branches, then went to the pool and sat there to cool off. It looked like at one point that she as going to lay down and catch a nap. NOPE! She fooled me when she decided that she was not having fun doing rollovers and somersaults! Haven’t seen ZZ yet, tho. Will probably check the cam later to see if I can see her before it gets dark.
I checked the Wolong Panda Center website to see if they had anything to say about today’s earthquake in China, and nothing yet. I know that they felt the tremor since it was felt as far as Shanghai and Beijing. Hope that they weren’t too rattled and the pandas weren’t too upset about this event. News reports are saying that nearly 9,000 people have died up to this point, and rescue efforts in going on now. Also found the Chengdu Panda Research Base website thru Google, and there was not anything about the quake on their website news either. I just hope that everything is ok there! Phone lines and electricity are still out over there.
Keep your fingers crossed and do some praying for China, ok?
Love to the pandas, their keepers at both Chengdu and Wolong!
Chari Mercier
St. Pete, FL
PS: P Wong, I read your newest conversation between Gao Gao and the tourist about the building that Gao wants to build. That was very cute, and I think I got the message from this one! I think Gao was thinking of building a huge house that would protect the pandas from everything that is bad in this world! What do you all think? That’s my guess, anyway!! BYE!!!
May 12th, 2008 at 12:10 pm
Many thanks for the update. Glad Jennifer is safe; I’ll look forward to hearing more. Thanks again.
May 12th, 2008 at 12:18 pm
Thankyou for the News Update on Wolong and the situation in China… I’ve been on pins and needles all morning waiting for word.
What a site on the webcam right now to lighten my heart, Zhen Zhen and Bai are rather playful… Just what the Dr ordered….
May 12th, 2008 at 12:22 pm
Glad to know everyone is ok at Wolong. Have just watched the news and it is bad for the Chinese people. So many killed and many more injured. According to the news, their homes are not earthquake proof because this is not usually an earthquake area. Rescue teams went out immediately. My thoughts are with them at this awful time.
May 12th, 2008 at 1:09 pm
Thank goodness everyone at Wolong is alright. Thank you for the update.
May 12th, 2008 at 1:23 pm
Is the area the Mei Sheng is in stable as well? He’s not specifically in Wolong any longer, is he? I haven’t read the blogs in awhile, any news on him, especially now?
Thanks, and glad Jennifer is safe..
May 12th, 2008 at 1:37 pm
Thank you, Moderator, for the update on Wolong. Thank God our precious pandas and the people who care for them are okay — also Jennifer. The NZ website said they had heard from Chengdu and they were not seriously affected. Not the case with many of the people in China. Whatever will this do to the Summer Olympics?
May 12th, 2008 at 2:14 pm
Maureen #11, thanks for the info, i will try to find out about that. How exciting it would be if Edinburgh Zoo did get pandas.
So happy to hear that Jennifer Keating is safe after todays earthquake in China. I hope that the pandas are safe aswell. I just wish they would give us some latest news on Mei Sheng, even more so now.
May 12th, 2008 at 2:15 pm
ZA reports that their staff member is safe at Chengdu. The NZ & all the zoos I’m sure are ready to help.
May 12th, 2008 at 2:32 pm
Maureen,#49 i have been on the website for Edinburgh Zoo and the news is that they should have two adult breeding pandas there in 2009. I will keep checking for any more news.
Thank you so much
May 12th, 2008 at 2:49 pm
P. Wong, Thanks for GG’s latest conversation. He is a sage ” old” man after being born and surviving as a cub in the wild. He needs his harem to be secure because when it is his turn to return to China he will be very busy guy and will want protection for his ” ladies” and his cubs from any intruders such as snow leopards, humans, earthquakes, etc. He can blissfully enjoy his pampered life as stud extraordinaire with plenty of real snow, lots of native bamboo, and the climate that the pandas are built to enjoy. That day is a long way off, and he now enjoys the tropical life with annual ” snow day.” But, he still needs fortification against natural elements such as Tsunami and Earthquakes which can hit SD too.
Moderator’s note: We are actively attempting to get information about the status of Mei Sheng and the other pandas located at Bifengxia and will share that information on the Panda Cam page.
May 12th, 2008 at 3:25 pm
My prayers go out to all who have been affected by the horrific losses created by nature worldwide. Thank you moderator for putting the news that is available with regards to Wolong up on this site.
Indeed Su Lin was really showing off around 11:43 Pacific time today! Watching the tree limbs ‘tolerate’ her is almost as amazing as her climbing and hanging upside down!!
May 12th, 2008 at 4:12 pm
I’ve just read the e-mail sent by ” Panda International” and reported the damages in Wolong.
They said the Chengdu Airport has been closed and 2.300 cell phone towers were knocked down by the quake.
The road to Wolong is heavly damaged and the access has been cut off, so emergency workers can’t get in.
The needs in the area to help the pandas and the care takers will most likely be great.
May 12th, 2008 at 4:35 pm
Barbara # 26 – I just read that the China Wolong Giant Panda Protection and Research Center ” was out of contact” . This statement was made by the State Forestry Administration on Monday.
The article also mentioned that all communication services linking the center with the outside were out. The Forestry Dept. of Sichuan Prov. Gov. also had no information from the center.
I pray that we hear from our contacts in Wolong as soon as possible. Our prayers are with everyone affected by this horrific tragedy.
May 12th, 2008 at 5:24 pm
from ZA : Dr. Ben Charlton, doing vocal sound research in Wolong until last week is safely back in Chengdu. ZA has heard from all their staff at Chengdu and they are all doing well. There has been no contact with Wolong.
May 12th, 2008 at 6:26 pm
Please make the news from Wolong a headline on the zoo website. We, of course, are heartbroken about the loss of human life, we Panda lovers are very worried.
Thank you
May 12th, 2008 at 6:34 pm
Bobbie (#52), I watched some crazy antics this afternoon as well but I am pretty sure we were watching Zhen. When the cam zooms in close, she looks just like her sister. Can anyone comfirm? Moderator?
May 12th, 2008 at 6:45 pm
Hi to Lisa and everybody else! I got back on the SDZ website and the pandacam page and read the little news bulletin that was written about the China earthquake, and there’s a new update under the main statement that said that the staff here at SDZ could not independently confirm anything for sure about Wolong Panda Center and Chengdu Panda Center. Lisa, thanks for your small update about the situation in China. I knew that the Chengdu Airport was shut down due to the quake thru CNN, but I didn’t know until now that a large number of the cphone towers were knocked out. Now I know that nobody has been able to call anyone by cphone because of that damage. I knew that landline phones and electricity has been out in a wide area all day ever since the 7.9 quake hit. (The USGS upgraded the quake magnitude up to 7.9 about an hour after it hit based on their data info.) I also read from one of you about the wild panda population where the quake hit, and I sure do hope those pandas were able to feel and hear what was about to happen and started to move to safer areas. Animals have this sixth sense about this because their hearing is so much more sensitive to noises underground, so animals have this sense of impending danger and start moving to safe areas. I hope that’s what the wild pandas did in this case. Won’t really know that until the researchers are able to get out there to check on them after things are settled down somewhat. I hope that we will hear from both Wolong and Chengdu real soon to let us know if they were able to hold up thru this. I don’t even know how many major aftershocks have occured in that area, but there have been alot of them. Gonna also go back onto the Atlanta Zoo website and see if they have heard from Chengdu themselves; National Zoo has an agreement with Wolong. Will let you all know if I see anything from them. Just keep praying for the Chinese people in Sichuan Province. They really need it! I do commend the Chinese government for the fast, active role that they are taking in starting rescue efforts and getting the people affected by this quake some relief supplies and food in the hardest hit areas.
Love to all the pandas in China and the US,
Chari Mercier
St. Pete, FL
May 12th, 2008 at 6:46 pm
Well, I don’t think the Chinese government will refuse help from the US like Myanmar has done. As we have ships near the general area we could have search & rescue teams there in a a short time. Our helicopters could reach Wolong & other isolated areas rapidly. My heart goes out to all affected by this disaster (which seems worse than orinially reported – first it was 7.8 eartquake now it’s a 7.9. It’s my understanding that each 10 of a percent is 10 times worse. )
On a happy note I did see Miss Z happily sprawled out ” eating” her bamboo this afternoon.
Like all of us will wait for more news.
May 12th, 2008 at 7:04 pm
Panda lovers the world over:
The earthquake in China, with the epicenter near the Wolong Panda Research Center, is disastrous to the people and animals who live there. It has been reported that the road to the center is blocked and help cannot reach those who need it as this time. We must pray for the Pandas, their keepers and all staff at the Wolong Center, including San Diego Zoo’s researcher how is currently working there.
Early reports indicate that up to 20,000 emergency workers have been dispatched to the affected area. Many are travelling on foot to reach the remote areas. Let’s keep them safe so they can provide the help that all victims need.
So much work has been done by the Chinese and other groups, like the WWF, in building new corridors for Panda survival in the wild. The San Diego Zoo and the National Zoo have played a very large part in research at Wolong for breeding of the captive population. The San Diego Zoo has entrusted two of their most precious cubs – Hua Mei (who has since given birth to 3 set of twins!) and Mei Sheng (who traveled to China just last Novermber) – to the captive breeding program at Wolong. I pray for their safety. I didn’t get the chance to know Hua Mei, but I did know Mei Sheng and consider him a part of my family.
We must hope that the devastation of the earthquake has not destroyed all of this work. Whatever the outcome, we know for sure that the conservation work will continue. Pandas are the most beloved animals in my world, and yours.
May 12th, 2008 at 7:09 pm
i just heard about the earthquake in China. Oh i do dearly hope that the pandas and the people are ok. My hope to them all.
PS Has there been any new news about Wulong yet? And how is little MeiSheng doing
May 12th, 2008 at 7:10 pm
Hi, again! Just checked the other 3 zoos’ websites (MZ, NZ, AZ), and all of them are waiting for more word about their designated panda research centers’ situations. Apparently, Chengdu Panda Center has faired a little bit better as far as whatever damage may have been done there, and it looks like Chengdu Panda Center does not have too much in the way of structural damage. Nerves are probably a little frayed, tho! The one thing that I just found out is that Wolong was closer to the epicenter than Chengdu is; I thought it was the other way around! National Zoo is also waiting on any communication from Wolong Panda Center as well. AZ and MZ have been trying to get in contact with the Chengdu panda center all day as well for more info.
If any of you have any more news, please let all of us panda lovers know, ok? Gonna try to find out anything new on the cable news channels tonite. Will also google Panda International to see if they have any new updates about the panda research centers.
Gonna go. Love to everyone working with pandas and prayers for the Chinese people,
Chari Mercier
St. Pete, FL
May 12th, 2008 at 8:00 pm
I’ve moved directly into panic mode..Thank you, SDZ for being our liason to our beloved pandas. I pray they are all OK.Please let us know as soon as information can be gathered.
May 12th, 2008 at 10:43 pm
Wolong is still ‘out of contact’. It is located at the very ecicenter of the earthquake. Some posters on a very popular chinese site are saying Wolong is not seriously damaged.
Pray for all…
May 13th, 2008 at 3:29 am
Re: Earthquake. While we await confirmation that the Research Center and everyone there is OK, do we know how the natural habitat of our Pandas was affected ? My prayers are going out to everyone over there affected.
May 13th, 2008 at 4:53 am
The latest news on Chinese news channel (English speaking) have said that Wolong was closer to the epicentre, and that there are about 15 British people missing who were visiting the Wolong Panda Centre. The roads to Wolong are inaccessible. They said that they are very concerned about the pandas there. They are trying to get a way cleared to get to them as soon as possible.
I am so relieved that you are trying to find out about Mei Sheng and obviously the other pandas. Hua Mei is at Wolong, i hope she is safe and her babies – all of them.
Pandas international have said that they will keep us informed of any information they are able to get.
I think the best thing we can all do now is wait and pray very hard not only for the pandas, their keepers but all that have been affected by this terrible disaster.
May 13th, 2008 at 5:03 am
Suzanne, is Shi Shi anywhere near the epicenter and any news on how he may be doing?
May 13th, 2008 at 5:08 am
I couldn’t sleep last night. I’m worried for all the pandas, their keepers and the scientists at Wolong. I’m especially worried about Mei Sheng, Hua Mei and her babies!
Please keep us posted on how they’re doing! I can hardly rest easy not knowing. How far is Bifengzia from Wolong?
May 13th, 2008 at 5:57 am
Hi all,
I searched all Chinese news and as of this morining 4:50AM in US, that is May 13, 4:50PM in China, Chengdu Panda Center remains worried about WoLong, because they have not get in touch yet, and the situation there with staff and 64 pandas is unknown. What we know is that the Chengdu and another panda center are alright, no damage. But Wolong was out of contact.
The epicenter is not really in Chengdu, but actually more close to WoLong. WoLong is one of three towns around epicenter and lost in touch as of yesterday.
But I guess pandas are fine. Pray…
May 13th, 2008 at 6:10 am
Ok, the truth is, after I did some research, Wolong is actually a town in Wenchuan county, the epicenter. So Wolong is in epicenter.
May 13th, 2008 at 6:14 am
Rose#54 our local T.v. station reported that a young lady from the U.S. his in Chengdu and that they had been up to the centers and all the people and pandas are safe. She reported that the pandas really didn’t react much at all, they also had some pictures of the pandas happy eating and playing. As glad as we all are about our pandas the situation else where is devastating she reports and now they are having rain which is making rescue attempts evev more difficult. I thank god that we are able to get the information that we do. I have set my computer to get E-mail alerts on the situation. My prayers and thoughts are with the Chinese people in this time of need.
May 13th, 2008 at 6:18 am
A very sad event indeed. Thank you to all panda fellows who provided informations and news about the situation in Chengdu and Wolong and the status of the staff and resident pandas. I hope for the best.
May 13th, 2008 at 6:28 am
BBC online news article ” Quake Fears for Key Panda Reserve” (5/13/2008) says Chinese media indicates panda bases in Chengdu and Ya’an were not harmed by earthquake disaster. Ya’an is south of Wolong and southwest of Chengdu. Bifengxia is in Ya’an. Mei Sheng is probably safe. The article also states Xinhua news agency said the State Forestry Administration (SFA) directed rescue efforts toward Wolong panda reserves. So we can pray for these efforts.
May 13th, 2008 at 7:23 am
According to State Forestry Administration latest news release (May 13, 2008 21:50 China time) on Xin Hua Net, contact has been established through satellite phone. All the pandas (86) in Wolong are safe and sound!!!
May 13th, 2008 at 7:42 am
As I’ve written before, MSU had a panda researcher in China over the winter. She’s home now, but all of her assistants live in the area hardest hit by the quake. If you want to follow the news, as they get it, you can google ” MSU Special News Room” and look for ” To catch a panda” . As would be expected at this early date, they don’t have much info, but will be updating it as they can.
May 13th, 2008 at 9:09 am
On one of the morning talk shows they were interviewing via phone an American Exchange student in Chengdu. She was telling of their experience and how that they had gone out after the quake to inspect. One of the places they went was ” to the Pandas” and said it was as if the pandas didn’t know that something major had happened. They were continuing to play and eat their ‘boo—that all seemed to be fine. But they did not elaborate as to which pandas or where. Our prayers go out to the Chinese people and to the caretakers of our beloved Pandas. So happy to hear that Jennifer is well.
May 13th, 2008 at 9:18 am
Hi! A couple of updates here. Just got on 2 websites to check on the status of the China earthquake and the 2 panda research centers. I got on the USGS website last nite and this morning, and found out that about 30 aftershocks since the 7.9 quake were between 4 and 6 magnitude on the Richter scale. The cable news networks have mentioned that there were well over 300-400 aftershocks after the main event. That’s enough to rattle anybody’s nerves! No wonder that the Chinese are outside sitting on the sidewalks, streets, and in parks; they’re too scared to get inside the buildings! Also, the faultline that was responsible for this deadly quake is called the Longmenshan Fault which runs very close to Chengdu and Wolong on the USGS map. This is apparently a very active faultline there. Almost all of the aftershocks were shallow, about 6 miles deep with a couple of them at around 7-11 miles deep. Checked the other 3 zoos’ websites for any updates from them, and only the NZ site’s panda page had a May 13 update on what they were able to find out about the 2 research centers. First off, the Chengdu Panda Center is in good shape despite the fact that they were pretty close to the epicenter of the quake. They apparently did not suffer any real very serious damage, and the staff, volunteers, keepers, and all 60 pandas are doing fine so far. They have not heard anything about the Wolong Panda Research Center at all, and they are working hard to try to establish some type of communication with them to see how Wolong came thru this. This is a little worrisome for me because this research base is in that remote area that the rescue people and Chinese troops have been trying to get to for over 18 hours. From what I’ve heard on CNN this morning they have gotten to that area and are pushing their way into the hardest hit towns as fast as these mangled roads will let them. Death toll is up to 12,000; about 18,000 are buried under rubble in Miangyang. I am still hoping and praying that the Wolong pandas and the wild pandas came thru this ok, but we will all have to wait for any new updates on that. I also got on the Panda International website and read their first statement about the earthquake. Will get back on there to see if they have any more recent news about the pandas. If any of you hear of anything about Wolong, the wild pandas, any new updates, please let all of us pandafans know, ok? I’ll do the same. I’ll keep monitoring the news and the websites for any new updates. Keep praying for the people of China and their rescue/recovery efforts that is still ongoing right now.
Love for the pandas,
Chari Mercier
St. Pete, FL
May 13th, 2008 at 9:33 am
HF #71 thanks for the great news confirming that all pandas and staff at wolong are safe, now if only we could find out about our baby boy Mei Sheng and be sure that they are all right in Bifengxia.
May 13th, 2008 at 9:39 am
Maureen, Michgan; update about US aid going to China. The Chinese government has told the US government that they will accept any and all humanitarian aid that we can get to them. The US government has released about $500,000 in relief aid right now with more coming in the next few days. I do agree with you about the Chinese government getting on top of this disaster as fast as they did compared to the stupid military government of Burma, who are still stalling in getting humanitarian aid to the Burmese people. China has had a very good history in getting their rescue people and military to the disaster areas after the event happens whether it is earthquakes, mining disasters, flooding, hurricanes, anything. They deserve our kudos for working very hard to get to those hardest hit areas, including Wolong. The 20,000 plus rescue workers and military personnel have finally gotten to the hard hit towns and are pushing to get to other hard hit areas today. Keep on praying for the Chinese people, Wolong Panda Center, and the rescue people that are working very hard to get people out of the rubble. Gonna go to check pandacam and get some laundry done. Will check back later to see if there are any new updates about the China quake and Wolong.
Chari Mercier
St. Pete, FL
May 13th, 2008 at 9:41 am
It is great news to hear that the pandas at Wolong and Bifengxia are probably fine, but how are their keepers who live outside the research bases themselves. I pray they and their families are safe too. Captive pandas without keepers are not ” fine.”
May 13th, 2008 at 9:47 am
It is 9:43 am and this report was 1 hr and 23 min ago on At&T news that the pandas are safe at Wolong!!! The report said ” more than 80 giant pandas at China’s most famous park, the Wolong centre, were safe and well” . A total of 86 giant pandas did not sustain injuries.
May 13th, 2008 at 9:53 am
Moderator, #51, thank you for checking on Bifengxia and Mei Sheng, as well as Wolong. How far apart are Wolong and Bifengxia? I think I read it is a two hour drive, and with the high mountainous terrain that is logical. It takes time to traverse high mountain roads.
Latest photos I have seen of Mei Sheng (2/2008) included a very substantial concrete walled exhibit. Hopefully that concrete is earthquake ” proof” and will have sustained him IF Bifengxia did get damaged. He is a resourceful panda, as we all know. So, once the tremors were over he probably resorted to his high tree perch for comfort. From there he would have been able to see all around the area. Too bad he can’t speak ” human” language and tell the keepers and the other pandas what is going on and how it all looks. Sometimes being a great climber may have its advantages. For comfort now, maybe we can all picture him as the Scout for the group.
May 13th, 2008 at 9:54 am
This was listed just 23 minutes ago:MAY 14, 2008-
News from Wolong: Giant pandas safe after earthquake
As reported earlier, the epicenter of the Sichuan earthquake was not only near the city of Wenchuan, but it was also very close to the Wolong Panda Reserve. Xinhua informed us that some pandas at other facilities were safe, but the status of the Wolong pandas was still known.
Luckily we have good news. We received this email from Karen Rose, Chairman of Pandas International:
We have a report from the Bifengxia Panda Base that they received a satellite phone call from the Wolong area.
The caller reported that the pandas at the Wolong Breeding Center are safe ( about 80 adults plus cubs) and the staff is safe. The caller reported that 20 people are dead in the Wolong area. That was before the last large aftershocks.
We also know that the chief veterinarian and assistant director for Wolong was at the Chengdu Panda Base at the time of the earthquake and he has emailed that he is safe.
May 13th, 2008 at 10:35 am
I just read the following on CNN’s Site…. I had been hoping and praying after reading all the blogs, but with CNN posting it, it has to be true………………… Our beloved black and white friends are safe, now we wait to hear about the staff at Wolong….
Also in the area, all 86 animals at the Wolong Giant Panda Protection and Research Center were safe, Xinhua reported. The center is one of the biggest Panda refuges in the world.
May 13th, 2008 at 10:46 am
There are multiple websites regarding the earthquake and the pandas in Wolong. Just Goggle – Are Pandas in Wolong Safe?
The articles say that the 86 giant pandas at the Wolong Center are confirmed safe, and all the baby pandas have been transported to safe places.
Thank God. I must say that my prayers were answered. More prayers are needed for all the thousands of people working so hard to save as many lives as possible.
May 13th, 2008 at 10:46 am
The BBC reports that the Xinhua news agency said that a rescue team from the State Forestry Administration (SFA) had been set up to direct efforts at panda reserves. And that soldiers have already entered the hardest hit areas of the province. The Chinese people deal promptly with disasters. I continue to pray for the people of China and the caretakers of our beloved pandas.
May 13th, 2008 at 10:52 am
Margaret, #79 — you expressed just what I have been thinking. Captive pandas — although it’s great that they weren’t injured — are strictly dependent on their caregivers. I hope and pray that the keepers and their homes and the buildings at Wolong are all safe. Hopefully all of the bamboo is grown nearby and they don’t have to go too far for supplies, since it might be a while before the road is dependable. Good to hear they are accepting help from other nations. Helicopters might be the answer.
May 13th, 2008 at 11:04 am
This is update information about the Pandas in Wolong from National Zoo. I hope Mei Sheng and Hua Mei (and her cubs) are going to be alright…
” May 13, Afternoon
We just found out via satellite phone that all 86 giant pandas at Wolong are safe. We are relieved at this news but have not heard about Wolong’s staff or their families. Our thoughts are with them and the earthquake’s many victims. We will post an update when we find out more.”
May 13th, 2008 at 12:25 pm
NZP reported on their website this afternoon that Wolong’s 86 pandas are safe. They do not yet have word on their keepers and their families.
” May 13, Afternoon
We just found out via satellite phone that all 86 giant pandas at Wolong are safe. We are relieved at this news but have not heard about Wolong’s staff or their families. Our thoughts are with them and the earthquake’s many victims. We will post an update when we find out more.
May 13, Morning
We have still not gotten any news from our colleagues at the Wolong Nature Reserve, but we know that the area was hit hard by Monday’s earthquake. There is no phone access at Wolong, and the reserve’s only road to Wenchuan (and Wolong) was heavily damaged. We will provide an update when we learn about the welfare of Wolong’s pandas and staff.
The director of the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding has confirmed that all Chengdu staff, their families, and the base’s more than 60 pandas are fine.”
May 13th, 2008 at 12:26 pm
National Zoo also has posted on their website that the pandas are all safe.
May 13th, 2008 at 12:37 pm
So glad to hear all the pandas are safe – but no word on the staff & their families -what a disaster – the death toll keeps rising. Our prayers are with all the Chinese people.
May 13th, 2008 at 12:41 pm
#87, Unfortunately helicopters are having trouble getting there too because of the rainy weather, and the mountainous terrain. Rescue and emergency personnel are having to go to Wolong on foot, which will take a very long time.
I don’t mean to play down the seriousness of this event. But, on the lighter side, I really wish that Pandas could talk and tell us from their perspective what this experience was like, along with the other animals in the forests of Sichuan. It is known that animals can sense things like this long before humans. I wonder what goes through their heads and how they instinctively move to safer ground. There were reports about this at the time of the Tsunami as well. (I don’t mean in fictional poetic form, I mean I really wish they could talk). I wonder if the pandas who had access to tall trees really did climb up there for safety as cubs instinctively do.
I note that the cubs were moved to safer places, which leads me to believe that there was some damage to the structures in Wolong. I don’t recall hearing of any cub births yet, just estrus and breeding. That may be a good thing, so the cubs will be protected by being in utero. And, I wonder how the stress of the earthquake will affect implantation of the fetuses and if that will delay births later in the summer and into the fall. Unfortunately, this will provide more research topics and material. That is good for research, but sad that it had to happen to conduct the research.
My heart goes out to all the Chinese people, with families stretched out over so many miles. It is gut wrenching to listen to reports of parents waiting at the collapsed schools to find out the fate of their children. I can’t imagine the excrutiating pain that the whole nation must be suffering.
May 13th, 2008 at 12:47 pm
From AP News:” Thirty-one British tourists panda-watching in Wolong and initially reported missing were safe and in the provincial capital of Chengdu Tuesday night, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said in a statement. No mention was made of another group of 12 Americans in the area on a tour sponsored by the World Wildlife Fund and out of contact Tuesday.”
May 13th, 2008 at 12:52 pm
Cnn has just posted a piece that the main concern now will be getting food and other supplies to the reserve in wolong. they also say that they can feed the pandas high fiber biscuits that will supplement the shortage bamboo.They are also concerned about the wild pandas and they aren’t able to yet to determine how much damade has been done high up in the mountains. The Chinese has worked so hard to establish corridors and bamboo areas, I just hope that none of this was destroyed and the wild pandas are safe. I do hope and pray for the people and the staffs families of this area and all of China . Any news that we get is a welcome relief, Thanks to everyone for all your info and to the staff for letting us know what’s what. I have one question if need be could we take pandas in a emergency situation.
May 13th, 2008 at 12:57 pm
China’s panda preserves reported safe
By CHRISTOPHER BODEEN | Associated Press Writer
3:13 PM EDT, May 13, 2008
CHENGDU, China – All the pandas at the world’s most famous panda preserve were reported safe late Tuesday, more than a day after China’s worst earthquake in three decades closed off the remote, mountainous area.
The Wolong National Nature Reserve and panda breeding center is the only place in the world where the rare animals can be seen in such large numbers. But Chinese officials and zoo officials overseas had worried about the fate of the center’s 86 pandas since Monday’s devastating earthquake rattled nearby areas in central Sichuan province.
Late Tuesday, officials at Wolong used a satellite phone to contact the State Forestry Administration and report that the pandas were safe, the official Xinhua News Agency said. It said all panda cubs had been taken to safety.
Thirty-one British tourists panda-watching in Wolong and initially reported missing were safe and in the provincial capital of Chengdu Tuesday night, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said in a statement.
No mention was made of a group of 12 Americans in the area on a tour sponsored by the World Wildlife Fund. Kerry Zobor, U.S.-based spokeswoman for the WWF, said they have not been able to contact the WWF members.
Pandas are a national symbol for China. They are loaned to other countries as friendship offerings in what has become known as ” panda politics.” They are so rare and so slow to breed that any large-scale loss could have been critical to the population.
More than 60 pandas at another breeding center in Chengdu are safe, and the center reopened to tourists Tuesday morning, Xinhua said. Another eight pandas at a preserve in Ya’an, about an hour’s drive west of Chengdu, were reported safe as well.
But the Wolong center is deep in the hills north of Chengdu along a winding, two-lane road that reports say was wiped out in places by the quake. Earlier phone and e-mail contact had failed.
Pandas are among the world’s rarest animals. Both the Wolong and Chengdu centers are part of efforts to breed giant pandas in hopes of increasing the species’ chances of survival. About 1,600 pandas live in the wild in China’s mountainous west and another 180 live in captivity.
The Wolong center offers visitors the rare chance to play with young pandas, while wearing sterile gloves, booties and gowns for the pandas’ safety.
It is also difficult to reach, even in the best of times. Rescue workers only reached nearby areas by foot Tuesday, a day after the quake struck.
” We are terribly concerned and we are hoping the report is true,” said Suzanne Braden, director of U.S.-based Pandas International, which supports Wolong with medical equipment and supplies. ” I am waiting for confirmation that someone has actually made it to Wolong.”
Braden said she feared that medical supplies and other equipment needed for newborn cubs were lost in the quake and that enclosures in the reserve might have been damaged. ” We certainly don’t want captive pandas to get out into the wild,” she said.
May 13th, 2008 at 1:00 pm
Just another little news from the Memphis Zoo, It seems as though the researcher who helped with the AI on LunLun just returnrd to China last week They reported that it was for work on a project, could that project be the AI on their panda, It seens like a coincidence that she was here and the panda cams were down. Let’s hope
May 13th, 2008 at 3:02 pm
Fingers crossed for continuing positive news (on panda care staff, families, facilities, supplies….).
I’m wondering if the cubs that were moved were last year’s babies?
And, last but certainly NOT LEAST…THANK YOU so very much SDZ for providing this blog that has given all of us panda fans a place to touch base, get updates and hope!
May 13th, 2008 at 3:25 pm
Suzanne #97, I agree with you totally on your post. I have found more info on this blog than anywhere…
A HUGE Thankyou to the moderator for posting all the comments from all of us concerned Panda Fans!!
May 13th, 2008 at 4:47 pm
Hi, you all! Just got back on the SDZ site, read the 5/13 update on the pandacam page, and some of the more recent comments on this page. I’m very glad that the pandas at Wolong came thru this huge quake in pretty decent shape, but nothing was mentioned about any building damage at the research base, such as the panda bedrooms, clinic, offices, etc. Hope there was not too much structural damage, but given the place that they are at, I’m not too sure. I’m also a little bit worried about the staff, keepers, volunteers at Wolong since they haven’t been heard from yet. Been watching news reports off and on all day on the cable news channels and have been getting some updates thru them. Apparently with the roads so badly mangled from the quake and some of them blocked due to landslides, some of the military personnel had to parachute themselves in the epicenter zone to get to the badly damaged areas. Once everyone got there, tho, there was no time to rest! They got right to work to get people out from under tons of rubble and concrete in those small towns and villages that were apparently totally destroyed from the quake. There are some reports from the Chinese news agency that alot of those towns and villages were totally wiped out. I also heard on CBS News a while ago that there were 12 Americans on a panda tour that have not been heard from yet, and that news came between 6:30 and 7pm EDT. My guess is that they were at Wolong. Keeping my fingers crossed for them and that they were able to survive this quake. Weather was bad with rain in China to where helicopters couldn’t fly, but they are hoping for better weather tomorrow so that the choppers can get out there with more personnel and relief supplies. They also need heavy epuipment in there to help with the rescue efforts.
Hopefully, we will hear from the people at Wolong by tomorrow. I know that this has been an agonizing wait to hear from them, but we will all keep praying that they are ok and that the buildings at the Wolong center were not too badly damaged. The epicenter zone will no doubt see a huge increase in the death toll in the next 24 hours, so keep on praying for them and the rescue people that are finally in there to help them. Rebuilding and healing from this disaster will take a very long time and this will be a long haul for the Chinese people even after the Beijing Olympics. I’m also glad that Jennifer Keating is in Beijing, but I’m sure that she is very worried about her colleagues at both Chengdu and Wolong research centers. Hope that we can get a write up from her letting us know how she’s doing and tell us of her experience going thru an earthquake.
Gonna go and check pandacam, check out Pandas International for more updates, and the news websites for any more news on the situation. I am glad that all of the pandas at Chengdu and Wolong got thru this pretty well. I’m praying more for the people at the centers who have gone thru a very traumatic 2 days.
Love to the pandas,
Chari Mercier
St. Pete, FL
May 13th, 2008 at 6:09 pm
I, too, have been devastated by the tragedy still unfolding in China from the massive 7.9 earthquake, yet have been heartened by the concern of all the bloggers about the fate of our beloved pandas, their devoted keepers, and staff members at Wolong, Chengdu, and Bifengxia.
The news that all the pandas are safe, is such a relief, but how about their keepers…? Has anyone heard any further updates, and if any of the rescue teams have been able to reach the villages and towns around the epicenter of the quake? That any person or animal survived such a horrifice event, is a miracle in itself; I sincerely hope that outside aid is permitted into these regions to help those who are in such dire need of assisatance
I agree, that there has been more shared information on this blog than anywhere, and I am grateful to all of you for keeping us updated as the events continue to unfold.
Thank you, too, San Diego Zoo staff, for all your efforts in keeping us abreast of any information as it it received. You must be frantic about the pandas’ plight and how they will be able to survive this tragedy; I fear this nightmare is just beginning…we cannot even begin to understand the suffering of the Chinese people; the news photos are unbelievable to see. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
May 13th, 2008 at 6:15 pm
I just finished reading the pandas international newsletter for today. ” Fans of the pandas born at San Diego — we can assure you that Mei Sheng is safe as he had been moved to Bifengxia. Hua Mei is at Wolong and we hope she is also safe. ” Wolong was still not in contact and they are concerned that with all the cubs coming in June that there are enough supplies for emergencies. They also indicated they would be updating daily so if you haven’t signed up for the newsletter, now is a good time.
Thank you SDZ staff for the continued updates. And thank you all the pandaholics for your updates as well. What a great tool to help keep all of us who are so concerned not only for the precious Pandas, but for the citizenry as well updated/informed. My prayers are with everyone in China no matter how near or far they are from the epicenter. God Bless!
May 13th, 2008 at 7:02 pm
I am grateful for the updates here, too.
Praying for the people of China, their pandas and the rest of their land and creatures.
May 13th, 2008 at 7:16 pm
#95 Judy – Let’s all pray that when word is that all the pandas are safe & the cubs have been moved it’s true. We don’t need to be worrying about enclosures & equipement being damaged & pandas escaping into the wild – we all know that our Mei Sheng is the escape artist.
#97 – the other Suzanne – also have to agree with you about the moderators who have allowed many to quote other sources not usually allowed here.
In some way it seems heartless that we are all so concerned about the pandas when the loss of human lives is horrific. I cried tonight when I saw the poor mothers waiting for word on their children at one of the collapsed schools. At that time only one was found alive & only 50 bodies recovered – over 800 kids still missing. But I’m as worried about our pandas & their keepers & their families as we all are.
From what I can tell Wolong was difficult to reach in the best of circumstances so we must give much credit to the Chinese goverment for getting help there as soon as they did.
May 13th, 2008 at 7:23 pm
Just received a Special Update from Pandas International. They received 2 reports of satellite phone calls out of Wolong to the Bifengxia Panda Base reporting that the Wolong Pandas are safe. Another satellite phone call to Sichuan Forestry Dept. said both the pandas and caretakers are OK and the cubs have been moved to another safer area. Included in one of the phone calls was the information that 20 people died in the Wolong area. Pandas International are trying to verify all info and obtain first-hand reports.
Chinese news has been reporting that the Army marched for 24 hours to get into the epicenter area and that paratroopers will soon be dropped along with supplies. They are not reporting details of just where the Army is working. The weather has been very bad and caused numerous mudslides. The road to Wolong shows it has been demolished. It was a hazardous road in the best of times.
Since Wolong is so close to the epicenter of the 7.9 quake, they believe there will be damage to the breeding center. They hope to be prepared to provide replacements of the everyday medical supplies the pandas need plus additional surgical equipment and machines. They are concerned that delivery of the vitamin and nutritional supplements, grain and bamboo will be delayed for the adults for some time due to transportation and funding difficulties. Births are expected in June and they hope the nursery is intact and has utilities including electricity for the incubators. There is no telling what affect this will have on pregnant females.
Fans of the pandas born in San Diego — we can assure you that Mei Sheng is safe as he had been moved to Bifengxia. Hua Mei is at Wolong and we hope she is also safe. Pandas International stated ” please check back daily for updates” .
We now know that all the pandas are safe, so let’s hope and pray that everything quickly gets back to normal.
May 13th, 2008 at 8:23 pm
Yes, absolutely! I agree with Suzanne and Darlene (#’s 97 and 98) – thank everyone SO much for all the effort put into gathering information about our beloved pandas. This site has really served as a mini-CNN for me today. I had a very busy day at work and couldn’t do as much research as I wanted to, so I’m thankful all I had to do was check out the SDZ panda site often for updates. Thank you everyone..
I’m continuing prayers and hopes for the Chinese people and am so hopeful everything is OK for the pandas. What a terrible tragedy this is.
May 13th, 2008 at 8:25 pm
For a more lighthearted moment in the midst of all the distressing earthquake news, everybody be sure to check out Cute Overload today (May 13) for some totally adorable pictures of Su Lin playing in the snow! I have to giggle every time I see these… they’re priceless.
(And my thanks to those who have taken time to scout around for information since the earthquake. I don’t post here often, but it was the first place I came to find out if the pandas had been affected.)
May 13th, 2008 at 9:01 pm
Kris #57 & Bobbie # 52
Hope this clarifies panda ” who’s who”
I was also watching the Panda Cam between 11:39 AM until 12:11 PM on 5/12/08.
At 11:39 AM, I noticed Su Lin on C28 running and playing in a pile of wood shavings on the ground. She was acting very frisky. I started sending myself postcards to document her wild and crazy antics. From the wood shavings, she climbed up her favorite tree. There she started acting silly stretching from tree limb to tree limb. swinging back and forth while hanging by her back legs (upside down). Finally, at 11:50 AM, Su Lin on C28 decided she had enough exercise and immediately went into her pool to cool off. Shortly thereafter, the Panda Cam switched over to Zhen Zhen on C5. Zhen Zhen looked so cute sitting in a pile of shredded bamboo. She looked like a mini Bai Yun. Very sweet.
May 13th, 2008 at 9:14 pm
Three Cheers for the Moderators and those who run the Blogs!
Hooray!
Hooray!
Hooray!
You’ve been working hard to get all our reports together.
And, where was everyone when I was doing research reports in school??? I think this site should win a gold medal … ” The Best Panda Info Researchers”
Thanks to everyone for the updates.
Keep praying for the people and animals of China!
Love, Joy
May 13th, 2008 at 9:38 pm
Late tonight (or I guess it’s early Wed. am – during the primary results) CNN had a segment of the horrible damage in China but they did have some shots of pandas lounging & happily eating bamboo. I did miss if if it was Chengdu or Wolong but all pandas seemed well & unconcerned.
May 13th, 2008 at 10:46 pm
Like all of you here, I have been worried sick about the babies in China- especially Hua Mei and Mei Sheng- last night I sent an email to whoever I could at the Panda International website- and I did notice on their site just now when I came to work that there is a message to all of us worried aboutour babies ” Fans of the pandas born at San Diego — we can assure you that Mei Sheng is safe as he had been moved to Bifengxia. Hua Mei is at Wolong and we hope she is also safe. ”
And hopefully I understood right when I read that Hua Mei is also safe- my prayers are with all the keepers and the people of China and pray for the safety of these beautiful creatures.
May 13th, 2008 at 11:05 pm
ok so we’re happy to hear that everyone at wolong is ok, but i have to hope.. what is the chance that if the facility is damaged badly enough that they cant house all the pandas, that we can get pooper back? I’ll go get him if he needs a ride home..
May 14th, 2008 at 1:03 am
China’s official news agency Xinhua reported:-
” GIANT PANDAS IN WOLONG BASE CONFIRMED SAFE AFTER EARTHQUAKE
2008-05-14 01:39:47
BEIJING, May 13 (Xinhua)– The 86 giant pandas raised at the China Wolong Giant Panda Protection and Research Center, about 30 kilometers from the southwest China earthquake epicenter, were all safe and well, the State Forestry Administration (SFA) confirmed on Tuesday.
All the panda cubs had been transported to safety, the Wolong center told SFA by satellite telephone after being out of contact for 30 hours.
All 144 pandas raised in three panda research bases in Chengdu, Wolong and Xi’an — all in the quake zone — were unharmed.
China has more than 1,590 pandas living in the wild in Sichuan, Shaanxi and Gansu provinces. Their safety is still unknown, Xinhua learnt from the administration.
Sichuan, the worst hit province, is home to 75 percent of China’s wild pandas while Shaanxi has 17 percent and Gansu 7 percent, according to the administration.
The SFA urged the panda reserves to step up safety checks to protect staff and pandas.
Local bases should closely monitor pandas in the wild, and provide promptly rescue injured pandas, the SFA said. “
May 14th, 2008 at 1:14 am
I’d just like to add my thanks to everyone who has posted info about the pandas. I agree with Darlene and Suzanne in that this has been THE place to come for information.
Watching the news covering the earthquake, it is unbelievable how quickly the death toll has risen. And I know its going to get even higher. I feel so sad for them, they are heartbroken and some of them look so confused. On the plus side, at least they are getting help – they all seem to have tents and food, unlike Burma (as previously mentioned) where 400 people were expected to live on one bag of rice!! Apparently another cyclone is said to be building up around Burma – that is definitely not good.
My thoughts too are with the people and pandas of China. I am sure they will come back stronger.
Please, everyone, keep us informed about the pandas – and, of course, any news about Mei Sheng.
May 14th, 2008 at 5:39 am
The latest news: Wolong, the town, was seriously damaged as it is in epicenter. Almost all buildings are down. No further information about the panda center.
May 14th, 2008 at 5:55 am
I hesitated a long time before writing this, especially since we have heard the good news that the captive Pandas at Chengdu and Wolong are intially safe. But…….I have some experience in development and participation in disaster scenarios, both natural and man-made, and there are still a lot of things to worry about:
The hardest-hit areas are just now being entered, many of them on foot. Foot solders, especially if they have to travel for several days, can’t carry much in the way of relief supplies for the thousands of people – much less the Pandas – who will need basic items like food, water and shelter. The road to Wolong has been destroyed in many spots, which means that moving heavy items like generators and equipment needed to rebuild infrastructure won’t arrive for some time. And even with helicopters (some of which can not easily reach badly hit areas because of the rugged terrain) the needs of people must come first.
It sounds like the Wolong Panda station workers are essentially ok, but frankly, if I were a parent with a child in school when the quake hit, I would move heaven and earth to leave my job and get to my child…or any loved one, which raises the question as to how many people are left at the Wolong station to care for 80+ Pandas. It takes a lot of bamboo and biscuits to feed that many bears.
Does Wolong station have emergency generators? Are electical wires still intact? Can biscuits and Panda bread be made without electricity?
What water sources are available there? Earthquakes, especially in such rugged terrain, often dam, bury, or divert water sources, or even swallow them entirely. Have water pipes survived the quake? Again, 80+ bears need a lot of water. I think about a reduced staff, hungry, worried, and exhausted, hauling water for their charges, and pray they don’t have that burden on top of everthing else.
And there is no way of knowing right now what the quake has done to the bamboo stands, although we do know from reports that there were bad mud and rock slides in those steep hills around the epicentre. So even the wild Pandas’ habitats – and possibly the Pandas themselves – have possibly been affected, although there is no way to know how much.
The people of China have been dealt a horrible blow; thousands dead, thousands more badly hurt, homeless and hungry and heartsick. I saw a reporter interviewing the emergency manager of a town. When the reporter asked how many were dead, the manager replied many, including his parents, his wife, and his children, and he began to cry. Then his beeper went off, and he had to continue his work. What can anyone say in the face of such devastion and such courage? Sometimes, in spite of all the planning, in spite of all the scenarios, in spite of all the training and hard work, there is just no way to be prepared for the scope of such horrific tragedy. And all you have is the ingenuity, courage, love, and stubborn will of people who refuse quit. They deserve our help, our hearts, and our prayers for the long road ahead.
May 14th, 2008 at 6:34 am
Pandas International update 5/13 PM
Cubs are due in June and they hope that power will be available for the incubators as needed. They are also preparing to provide any necessary everyday medical and surgical supplies as they may have been destroyed.
The added a note at the end of the letter, ” Fans of the pandas born at San Diego — we can assure you that Mei Sheng is safe as he had been moved to Bifengxia. Hua Mei is at Wolong and we hope she is also safe. ”
Since word has been received via satellite phone that the adult pandas and cubs at Wolong are OK, we must hope that Hua Mei and her cubs are therefore OK.
May 14th, 2008 at 9:28 am
A new update from Pandas International is available, read it all on their website. For those who inquired about the 12 WWF tourists out of touch since the earthquake, they have been located and are safe.
More prayers needed for the Chinese people as they try to deal with this tragic situation.
May 14th, 2008 at 10:02 am
NZP update ” May 14
We have gotten direct confirmation that the pandas at Wolong, Chengdu, and a preserve in Ya’an are safe. We do not yet know about staff and their families. We have heard that some reserves in Sichuan province were damaged by the earthquake, which caused some of the reserves’ observation decks to collapse. Damage to roads has seriously limited access to the reserves.”
Thanks Moderator for relaxing the ” rules” regarding quotes during this very stressful time. It helps to keep calm in the USA. I can only speak for myself, but I find that I am very restless, finding it difficult to sit and concentrate knowing that there are so many grieving, injured, and trapped people on the other side of the world. At this point, the best thing we can do is pray for their rescue, comfort, and strength. What we can do later will come out in the press, on this website, and through Pandas International I am certain.
Until then we must continue to HOPE.
May 14th, 2008 at 10:04 am
Hi! Checked a couple of websites this morning on any new updates about the China earthquake and the panda reserves. NZ has a new update that was written this morning (May 14), and they now know that all the pandas at Chengdu, Wolong, and a small reserve at Ya’an are doing ok. They still have not heard from the people at Wolong reserve and are still trying hard to get in contact with them. NZ feels that there has been alot of damage there, and are waiting word from someone at Wolong to let them know what their needs are going to be. With roads still impassable because of severe damage and rock slides, getting there has been very difficult. Also checked Pandas International , and they don’t have any new updates up yet. Wrote an email to Memphis Zoo to see if they had any news, and they haven’t heard anymore than what we all have heard so far. They are also trying to get into contact with the reserves as well. And NO, Ya Ya has not gone into estrus YET!! The panda keepers at MZ are monitoring her hormones and behavior daily, and they will let us know on their panda updates when Ya Ya will be in estrus. This panda is keeping all of us in suspense!! I also asked them to write up more updates on their pandas, so I hope that they will.
Still keep praying for China. I hope that the weather there has gotten better for the helicopters to fly in with more rescue personnel and relief supplies. They are expecting another 30,000 Chinese military personnel to get there to help in the rescue efforts.
Have not gotten on pandacam yet, but I’m going to after I finish this. Just wanted to write in to let you all know what I just found out about the China quake and the panda reserves. At least that all the pandas are in good shape based on the info that we all have read so far. Just very worried about the Wolong people and the 12 Americans on the panda tour that are still not heard from yet. There were about 30 British people that were on a panda tour, but they have managed to get to Chengdu safely.
Will keep checking for more updates. CNN and MSNBC have reported that the death toll in China has gone up to nearly 15,000 and will be going up even more when they really dig in. There have been survivors, too, which will give everyone some amount of hope!
Chari Mercier
St. Pete, FL
May 14th, 2008 at 10:29 am
Pamela G—just read your statement, and you are right on everything that you said. China will be going thru a long haul in this huge, monstrous recovery effort even after the Olympics are done in Beijing! I saw pretty much the same stories on CNN that you saw, and I just about cried for that emergency worker who lost his whole family in the quake. But, even with the huge losses in his life, his main priority was to get as many people rescued from under all that rubble as possible, and he went right back to work after that interview. That is a dedicated person to his people! I’m also glad that SDZ has allowed all of us to write in our thoughts and comments on anything that is on our minds and about the pandas. This HAS been one of the best resources of info on the web! Thanks to SDZ and WAP for letting all of us write in as often as we do!!
Gonna go, and please keep praying for China! China may be an atheist, communist country, but God loves them as much as He loves everybody else, including the military government in Burma! Let’s all keep praying for the Burmese people as well, ok? They are in dire circumstances due to the selfishness of the military junta there. I’m also concerned about some of the endangered animals in Burma that may have been seriously affected by Cyclone Nargis. Some of those animals are on the endangered species list.
Chari Mercier
St. Pete, FL
May 14th, 2008 at 11:05 am
On a lighter note – I seriously can’t imagine Mei Sheng ” barely noticing” an earthquake of ANY magnitude, let alone a 7. A darling boy, but a bit skittery!
The pictures of the devastation are just heart wrenching. I particularly cry for the parents of lost children – and children with lost parents.
May 14th, 2008 at 11:33 am
I just want to thank the moderator. There are many, like myself, that do not contribute knowledge to this blog but read it constantly and find comfort in the knowledge that the pandas are safe.
May 14th, 2008 at 12:14 pm
I am so happy that out boy Mei Sheng is safe, and TONYMO #111 i’ll go with you if you don’t mind and bring him back!! lol
I am so thankful that i signed up to Pandas International so as to receive the latest information about the pandas. There was at least 20 people killed in Wolong that they are aware of at the moment. The British tourists are still missing at Wolong.
I have been also watching the Chinese English speaking channel CCTV 9 and going on their website to get more information. They are very concerned about the dam that has now got cracks in it, they hope to ‘patch it up’ other wise they fear the flooding that would bring even more devastation. It is just by Chengdu. Let’s all hope and pray they manage to secure it for the time being at least. I dread to think what would happen if the dam did flood Chengdu and other surrounding areas, it doesn’t bare thinking of.
How helpless do we all feel?
May 14th, 2008 at 12:23 pm
I will be in San Diego this next week and plan on being at the zoo all day Sunday. Knowing what devastation has occured due to the earthquake and that supplies will be desperately needed, will there a place for us to leave donations for the pandas in China or is it best to work through Pandas International ?
Donna in Port Richey, FL
May 14th, 2008 at 12:24 pm
I can’t stop crying — seeing and reading about the families that have lost love ones — and worrying about our babies Hua Mei and Mei Sheng. Oh P. Wong — I wish you could talk to our babies now and let them know that we are thinking about them — and hope they are safe — and that they could let us know how they are. It’s just heartbreaking — I wish they were home in San Diego.
May 14th, 2008 at 12:35 pm
On a much, much lighter note — this weeks MSNBC Animal Tracks has 2 photos from the SD Zoo / WAP — one of a new baby flamingo and another of Su Lin (although I think it may be Zhen Zhen) sliding down a snow covered slope. Very cute… and definitely brought a smile.
May 14th, 2008 at 12:52 pm
We here in California have experienced earthquakes, as have the pandas here at the Zoo. A relatively minor temblor last spring interrupted Gao Gao’s eating, causing him to race up a tree, then down, then up another with amazing speed, where he stayed and vocalized aggresively to the back of the exhibit. The plexiglass panels on the fence were rattling loudly and he appeared to associate this with his discomfort. (As a comparison, it rocked the narrator in her chair and half of the guests were clutching the railings; the other half didn’t feel it.)
May 14th, 2008 at 12:56 pm
Sammi and TONYMO count me in too…..
I had read that the British Tourists were located and safe? Now that we know the Staff at Wolong is safe, we can only imagine what they are going through. Their dedication to the Panda’s must be truly amazing, as we have to wonder if they have lost homes and family members and yet we can rest assured that they will see that the bears are cared for.
Does anybody know of the status of any wild Panda’s? I wonder and hope that they all headed to higher ground and are safe as well.
Another question? What would be the best way to donate directly to the Wolong Ctr, through Panda’s International or will the SDZ set something up? Thanks for any info anyone can provide.
Moderator’s note: Please check back for an update regarding donations to help the panda facilities in China.
May 14th, 2008 at 1:14 pm
My big, big thanks to all of you, i.e. SDZ staff and all you panda lovers and bloggers who kept us so well informed of the fate of the Chinese people and our beloved pandas. My heart goes out to all of them and I hope that the situation is not going to deteriorate more bearing in mind all the people who are still buried under the masses of rubble. Let’s hope that the staff at Wolong is also well. I kept checking the websites for information about the 86 pandas at Wolong and was very relieved when I heard that they are all unharmed. However, I dare not think what might have happened to the pandas in the wild….. #118 Margaret, you are right the only thing we can do is HOPE!
May 14th, 2008 at 1:45 pm
#117, Judy, thanks for the update that the Americans who were visiting Wolong are also safe. Damaged buildings can eventually be repaired and rebuilt. Lives can not. So we continue to watch, wait, and hope that the keepers and their families are also safe.
May 14th, 2008 at 2:07 pm
Hey all you fellow pandaphiles (?pandaholics), let’s all think very seriously about donating our tax incentives or whatever we can to one of the worthy panda causes mentioned on this site (SDZ, Pandas Int’l, WWF), even if we just donated a few weeks ago! They will be needing $$$ galore and every bit we can donate WILL help and somewhat alleviate the helpless feeling we’re all experiencing now. Let’s really get the dollars flowing when the immediate dust settles a bit, so they can get the equipment and supplies they always need, and now more than ever. Think about all those little Precious’s on the way! makes me choke up to picture them arriving so tiny and needy and the caretakers not having formula and incubators for the twins or others their mothers can’t take care of…They need us!!
May 14th, 2008 at 2:13 pm
Pamela G – you’re so right-guess we all so releived to hear the pandas were safe (that means right now) that we forgot the long term effects of this disaster. It’s too discouraging – way too many ifs – how have the pandas in the wild been affected, has their food supply been affected??? How can the military try to provide for the needs of thousands of humans also deal with the pandas at the research centers that are practically inaccessible. I see the SDZ & NZ have volunteered to help if they could get there. I fear this is going to be a long, difficult time that will probably affect this years breeding season. And now I just heard about the dam with cracks – Tons of prayers are needed along with millions in aid.
May 14th, 2008 at 2:36 pm
TonyMo #111
I’m with you! Let’s get out Pooper Back!!! They can send a female also and we can have more babies here at San Diego. I think now we should start building a bigger Panda Exhibit, so we could keep all the Pandas. I worry about Mei Sheng all the time. I also wonder now of they will have enough of bamboo. We could help China more by getting more Pandas, and of course just for exchange of great care given to them instead of $$$$$$.
My heart goes out to all the people in China. Such heartache. I’m glad the Soldiers are able to work fast and do the best they could. I’m so happy that the pandas are fine. I been there with San Diego Zoo and that road is really sad. Wolong is beautiful, but is’s very hard to get to. They will probably have to use helicopters for a very long time. The people need to be cared for before any roads get put together.
Thanks to everyone at San Diego for giving us all the updates. It’s like our family is there too.
May 14th, 2008 at 2:51 pm
NZP update :
” May 14, Afternoon
We recently got word that the staff at Wolong, including those doing field monitoring as well as tourists visiting the reserve, are all safe. There have been no reports of staff casualties at any of the panda reserves, but the infrastructure at all reserves has been damaged. Everyone who has suffered from the earthquake has our deepest sympathy.”
I am thankful to hear that none of the Wolong staff or visitors was hurt. I also extend my deepest sympathy to the Chinese people in their horrific loss of loved ones.
May 14th, 2008 at 6:36 pm
It is indeed gratifying to hear that everyone is safe . It is indeed a terrible tragedy that is unfolding here and we are all very aware of the great suffering the Chinese are going through. We are concerned not only for the pandas naturally but for the people closest to them and for all the Chinese people in this terrible time. We Californians and most likely every other state or country that is along the Ring of Fire can sympathize to a degree since we face possibly the same thing one day. Our buildings may be better but a quake that size here in California will do major damage and there will be a large loss of life so we pay close attention to what is happening over in China and how it is handled. We know some of the fear that comes when the earth starts shaking. It is hard to explain that feeling to anyone who hasn’t been in a quake. Still many members here live in places that have their own brand of terror, the tornado, hurricane, cyclone and more.
So we know that the staff at the panda stations scrambled to protect their charges but we also know they took great risks to do that. We thank them for all they do and wish we could do more for them and China.
May 14th, 2008 at 6:56 pm
My thanks as well for the updates, as I am just heartsick at this tragedy and all its implications. Apparently Phoenix, Arizona is a sister city to Chengdu and the Well Fargo Banks in the city have set up an emergency relief fund, where we can go to donate money to the city to help in the re-building effort. I have done so, and am posting this blog in case there are other Phoenix lurkers out there, who might want to do the same. My cooncern, now that we know that our wonderful colleagues at Woolong are safe, is for those wild pandas, whos fate we might not, if ever know. Keep saying those panda prayers.
Carol Blake
Phoenix, Arizona
May 14th, 2008 at 7:21 pm
Ellie #127–thank you for injecting a bit of humor at this time of tragedy. Now we know what it takes to make Mr. Mellow stop eating and start climbing.
I join everyone else in sending sympathies to all who are suffering.
May 14th, 2008 at 7:22 pm
Hi, you guys! Been reading the latest updates from some of you and SDZ, and it’s great that the pandas at all of the reserves have survived this quake. I knew that there was going to be some severe damage since these reserves were in the quake epicenter zone. Margaret (#134), thanks for the NZ update about the Wolong staff, field workers, and tourists have come thru this quake safe and alive over there, with no injuries or deaths. That is great news, and now I can relax a little bit! One other piece of great news: I heard on CBS News tonite that the 12 Americans that were on the panda tour were found alive, safe, and sound! YIPPEE!!! That makes me feel real good because I was so worried about them! Now that we all have had some great news about the pandas and the people at all of the reserves, we need to get something together to make sure that the supplies and equipment are replaced at the reserves. I read the moderator’s note about SDZ and WAP working on getting a relief effort going to get the reserves what they need to take care of the pandas, especially the females that are due to have babies this summer. Moderator, if we can’t get to SDZ with any donations, will you accept cash donations as well? Let us know, ok?
The Chinese military and rescue personnel have been working very long hours and very hard to get people out of the rubble, and they have also stopped several leaks in a large major dam in that region, averting another huge tragedy. Plus, there have been miracle rescues of people and kids that have been under rubble for nearly 2 days coming out alive. One of them was a woman that is 8 months pregnant! That is remarkable! A lot of hope in the middle of a huge disaster!
Gonna go. Will check Panda International to see what they have on their updates and what their plans are for relief efforts for the panda reserves.
My prayers to China, love to all of the pandas,
Chari Mercier
St. Pete, FL
May 15th, 2008 at 3:37 am
Michelle (#133)- I guess I thought the same thing as you when I read that- I think he should come back home now- he’s visited long enough- when I finally heard that they were all the pandas were safe I said to myself- now we need to get this worked out right now way ahead of schedule- they need to be informed that there is no way that Tai Shan and Su Lin can come visit them when it’s their time- their aunties just wont allow it. The need to stay right here where they are so we know how they are all the time. I had no idea I could get so attached to these adorable animals until I watched Tai squeezing his rear through a window on YouTube- hooked since then- cried like a baby when Mei Sheng left and cried when I was worried about them before hearing they were ok…my prayers do go out to those poor people who have lost so much though.
May 15th, 2008 at 7:01 am
YES! We in Phoenix are sister Cities with Chengdu.
from the city’s web site :
The city of Phoenix and Phoenix Sister Cities are working to help our friends in Chengdu, China with relief efforts from Monday’s massive earthquake. Tax-deductible donations can be made at all local Wells Fargo bank branches to the ” Chengdu Earthquake Relief Fund.†Phoenix and Chengdu have teamed as Sister Cities for more than 20 years, with frequent visits, exchange programs and other partnerships.
” Our hearts and prayers go out to our friends in Chengdu and their families,†said Phoenix City Councilman Michael Johnson, the Council’s liaison to Chengdu. ” We’re continuing to work closely with our friends there on many important cultural and civic issues and we want to help them in their time of need.â€
Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province, is about 60 miles from the earthquake’s epicenter.
” We will be working with Chengdu officials to assess their needs and assist them during this critical time,†said Paula West, executive director of Phoenix Sister Cities.
For additional information, contact the Phoenix Sister Cities office at 602-534-3751.
information is available at the City of Phoenix Website.
I know that the moderator may have to XXX some of that out (YEP!), and i respect her rules if she has to, so if that happens just google CITY OF PHOENIX and you can find it from there.
As for all of you who volunteered to help me go bring our boy home.. LETS DO IT!!!
May 15th, 2008 at 9:21 am
A three-year old girl survived after 40 hours buried in rubbles, because of her parents protecting her using their bodies. They both died.
In a kindergarten, a teacher was found dead but a kid in her arm and body is alive.
In another collapsed school, two teachers were found dead but four students under their arms survived.
A teacher saved 53 students but lost her daughter.
A doctor and a nurse, while dedicated to save injured kids, know that their kids are also buried underneath the rubbles, don’t know whether they are alive or dead.
Soldiers are crying when they hear many kids’ voice ” uncle, save me, save me” but can not help much to get them out because of a lack of large equipment (quake destroyed the access).
Another kindergarten, teachers saved 30 napping toddlers by passing them out one by one, but the last three were killed with the collapse of the building. The teacher remains heartbroken after that, dreaming three kids asking for help when sleeping, and woke up sobbing….
A miracle: a father learned that the school where his son stays collapsed, and bicycled there, using his hands to dig in the rubbles for four hours and finally saved his son.
May 15th, 2008 at 9:36 am
I hope all the employees and researchers at Wolong and other facilities are OK, as well as their families, friends and neighbors (especially those in Tibetan tribal villages nearby).
May 15th, 2008 at 10:06 am
Many thanks to the moderators for keeping us posted and for allowing all of our posts. And just as I was wondering to whom I should send my donation: the moderator pops up with a note to check back for an update on donations! You people at SDZ are awesome!!! This is truly the place we come for info on our beloved pandas as well as a source of help.
Regarding the wild pandas, the only thing that I have found online (at Shanghai Daily) is that 40 wild pandas were rescued by the ” forest police team” in the Wolong National Nature Reserve.
My heart goes out to the people of China…..
May 15th, 2008 at 10:20 am
Cheryl – #126
Viewing the photos on MSNBC Animal Tracks really uplifted my spirits. The pictures of the animals from all over the world are spectacular.
Animal Tracks is now in my ” favorites folder” so that I’ll be reminded to check on it weekly. Thanks for sharing.
May 15th, 2008 at 10:23 am
I just rechecked the MSU Special News Room and there’s an update. As I’ve mentioned in previous blogs, a grad student from MSU was in the Wolong area last winter trying to collar wild pandas so they could learn more about their patterns. Even though the area she was working in had previously had many wild pandas, her team was unsuccessful in even finding much evidence of pandas, much less catching one to collar. Jack Liu, leader of MSU’s Center for Systems Integration and Sustainability project there, is now speculating that the pandas may have sensed that the earthquake was developing and avoided the area. We can hope that, if that is the case, the wild pandas may be less affected than we suspect. Also, MSU’s panda research team has expanded an existing fund, HELP PANDA (Health and Education for Local People in Protected Areas and Destitute Areas) to also provide assistance to the earthquake victims. Now, especially since SDZ has been so generous in providing this blog which has been so valuable to all of us, I completely support donations to whatever fund they establish. I just wanted to let folks know about this other project which will also benefit our beloved pandas and the people who share their world.
May 15th, 2008 at 10:32 am
Hi! Just writing to let you all know that I have signed up for Panda International’s email newsletter. Hope to get some news from them soon about what they plan to do to rebuild the panda centers and other relief efforts. Carol Blake, Phoenix–you all are doing a great thing starting a donation fund for China thru one of the banks in town. That will help! So, like Carol says, anybody in the Phoenix area that want to donate to the China relief fund at Wells Fargo Bank, please do so. The reserves will be needing much needed supplies and equipment to replace what was lost and damaged in the quake. With alot of female pandas due to have babies in June, these supplies can’t get there quick enough!
Been getting some news updates about the rescue efforts in the quake zone. The rescuers are finding more people alive in all of the destruction! Some of them have been under that rubble for more than 50-72 hours. Emergency medics had to amputate a person’s both legs in order to free her from under extremely large, very heavy concrete beams in order to get her out. She’ll miss her legs, but I know that she is grateful to be alive. Rescue efforts are still ongoing, and the US will be sending their relief supplies in there. Unfortunately, the Chinese government and rescue personnel fear that the death toll will go much higher when they finally get the big equipment in the quake zone to start clearing away the heavy debris. No doubt that there will be bodies under all of that destruction that will need to be ID’d soon.
Just got on the pandacam, and saw Gao Gao (GG) eating his boo. He looked very relaxed and comfy!
Gonna go. Will check back later on. Praying for China and Burma!
Chari Mercier
St. Pete, FL
May 15th, 2008 at 12:24 pm
I recommend subscribing to the pandasinternational dot org newsletter available on their home page. They have Earthquake Updates with -Survival at Wolong -as well as the newsletters to your e-mail address. I suggest using their website for updates since I find the newsletter updates are not updated as often as their homepage updates are. The home page now has archived updates which is helpful to use.
When I got my newsletter today they were reporting yesterday’s update which was distressing since the State Forestry Department, the only official authority releasing information about China’s pandas, are reporting many reserves in Minshan and Qianlaishan were seriously damaged and many protection stations have collapsed. They report that the Wolong pandas are safe. However, the official government Xinhua news agency has started to report the General Brigade of Sichuan Forestry Armed Police rescued 40 trapped pandas from the Wolong Nature Reserve in Wenchuan. Pandas International is seeking confirmation and further information. At this time Pandas International believes our sources have verified the staff at the Wolong Reserve has survived and are working hard. They are waiting for further reports before confirming the health and well being of all the Wolong pandas and their cubs as of May 14.
I also recommend that you use the Google News site and if you have customized your own Google News page you can keep track of topics of your choice and I have everything from Wolong Earthquake, Wolong Pandas, China Earthquake, China Dams, etc. These sub topics yield a vast array of news articles, not all of which are duplicated which is why I suggest searching and entering different topics into your Google News Search / at the bottom of your search page you will see offerings of whether to add this search to your customized Google News page.
Finally, bless all the SDZ blog monitors for allowing so much generosity in reporting news here. This site has given the most information that I have been able to find anywhere on the web. You know our hearts are with the caretakers of our Panda family as well as their panda family. I hope we find a panda-copter and pilot and can somehow get food and medicine into Wolong from the air. We need panda angels for this work. There are so many issues involved to keep an eye on, not the least of which are the needs of the people as well as the pandas.
News is like a roller coaster. Just when you think all is well there is further news that it may not be. I use a God Box to keep my stress issues in perspective. It’s where I put requests for help dealing with things over which I have no control. Since the only thing I can control is ME, it does no good for me to get stressed out about things that I cannot control. All it would do is make me sick with worry and frustration. That’s how I handle stress, hope it may help even one person is why I offer it here with love. I have just placed a note in it to ask God to take care of the people and pandas in China during this crisis.
May 15th, 2008 at 12:39 pm
Didn’t Wolong just do a bunch of renovations in the last year or two? I remember reading someplace they had made a lot of improvements to the facility. I hope there is not a lot of damage to the primary structures.
May 15th, 2008 at 6:59 pm
Hi, you all! Got my first 2 Pandas International email newsletters today. I created a special folder on my email inbox–Pandas International News–and that’s where I am sending my PI newsletters to for future reference. Haven’t checked my cable news channels much today because I’ve been busy with other things, but my heart and prayers are still with the Chinese people and the pandas. I’m gonna be watching one of the news channels later tonite, probably CNN, to get any new updates on the situation in China. I’m expecting the death toll to go up some more, but I am also hoping and praying for more miracle rescues as well. Lili(#141), I liked your comments on all of the rescues that you have read/heard about from China. Those are remarkable rescues, and the Chinese rescue workers and other peoiple helping out should be very proud of themselves on the hard work that they are doing in getting these people out. LIke I said, still praying for more survivors, but it’s been about 3-4 days since the quake hit and survival is getting slimmer.
One more thing from Panda International; they said in their update today that they will be working 15 hours a day, or longer if it’s needed, to try to get supplies and other necessary things over to the reserves in China. They are asking for donations as well.
If I do hear of anything brand new about the situation in China, especially about Wolong and the other reserves, on the news tonite, I will let you all know. I’m also with some of you about Mei Sheng! Let’s get him back to SDZ ASAP!! Don’t know if that will ever happen, but it’s worth a try! Let’s not forget about Hua Mei either!
Gonna go. Talk at you later on!
Chari Mercier
St. Pete, FL
May 16th, 2008 at 1:35 am
Cathy, thank you so much for your very informative post. So many different stories coming out. Although I’m not religious, your way of dealing with stress is a lovely idea and I have adapted it to myself and put a little virtual note under my pillow. My thoughts are with the people and pandas in China.
May 16th, 2008 at 7:49 am
As my thoughts and prayers go out to all involved in the earthquake disaster, my mind began to wander down a similar path as TonyMo’s (#111). I can’t help but wonder if the situation might make conditions unfavorable for sending Tai Shan to China when originally planned. However, if Mei is pregnant there may not be enough enclosures at the NZ to accomodate them all. As with Mei Sheng, the thought of sending Tai out into the big, bad (and dangerous) world makes me feel so helpless.
July 3rd, 2008 at 12:28 am
As everyone knows, there are about 1,590 wild pandas live in China, especially in Sichuan there are 154 captive pandas in Chengdu, Bifengxia and Wolong. And Wolong nature reserve is a very important base for panda. However the earthquake occurred in Sichuan on May 12 let Wolong panda base seriously destroyed. Fortunately no dead body found till now except one. Almost all captive enclosures are collapsed, so most pandas of Wolong now have been transferred to Bifengxia for the security reasons to pandas.
January 14th, 2009 at 1:49 pm
i am totally with you