New Digs for Pandas!
Posted at 10:22 am December 12, 2008 by Ellie Rosenbaum
Wednesday, December 10, marked the return to “home base,” the left-hand or south viewing area for giant pandas Bai Yun and Zhen Zhen after a 10-day absence. The reason for this was readily apparent: a renovated cave area, lots of pruning and clean up, and newly-planted shrubs provided a refreshed and renewed environment for mother and cub. And what an interesting environment it was! Not only were there new structures and plants to be investigated, but each and every smell left behind by the construction workers, the gardeners, and their equipment had to be olfactorily investigated, especially by Zhen Zhen.
For the first half hour, structure was less important than scent as the little bear carefully walked the area and the climbing structures, inspecting each new bush and every branch where strangers had placed their hands or feet, and all of the newly configured rocks. And then, in true panda fashion, she went to sleep. Bai Yun, meanwhile, entered and ate, in true Bai Yun fashion, before even considering the inspection process.
Once the morning preliminaries were observed, however, it was an exciting morning. Napped and refreshed, Bai Yun made a serious study of the new place. (She did have to adjust her bulk around the new boulders on top of the former cave, not a major issue.) There was scent marking to tend to, with ZZ following suit, serious tree marking and body rubbing against the pine tree, and maneuvering around the new bushes to reach her favored “toileting” spots. Formalities observed, it was then playtime.
We often see cubs rear up on their hind legs facing Mom to solicit play, but it is rare that I have seen Bai Yun reciprocate. Wednesday, though, that’s just what she did. Several times throughout the rolling, romping, playful morning, Mom and cub reared up in mutual play, tumbling and rolling around the exhibit. Judging by the level of activity that the exhibit changes elicited, I’d say that the additions were a great success and will keep the gals busy for many happy days to come…although I won’t bet on the longevity of the new bush to the left of the cave.
Ellie Rosenbaum is a panda narrator at the San Diego Zoo.
Watch the pandas daily on the San Diego Zoo’s Panda Cam!
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December 12th, 2008 at 12:14 pm
Oh what fun! I wish I could have witnessed this!
December 12th, 2008 at 1:15 pm
It was great fun to watch them both explore every inch of the new space and figure out where to go next. ZZ seemed especially intent on finding good napping spots. They seem to have settled into their new space nicely and are very relaxed, especially ZZ snoozing in the branch over fans heads.
When will you be doing renovations in the next yard in preparation for the musical bears for 4 pandas come next Spring?
December 12th, 2008 at 1:27 pm
Oh, how great for the pandas. When I have a minute, I’ll have to watch the time elapse of their playing. Watched Panda Tales AGAIN! ZZ is destined to be a star.
On the serious side………still upset about the ZA cam. I haven’t heard back from them after emailing them. I like the idea of subscriptions someone mentioned on the last blog. Or a commercial for the sponsor prior to going to the cam.
December 12th, 2008 at 3:17 pm
Congratulations to all the staff at SDZ!!!!!! I just read the fantastic news about the new 5 year loan extension regarding our beloved pandas. You guys and gals all rock. If there is anything you need please just ask as I will grant you any wish I possibly can.
Anyways, congratulations again.
Lee
December 12th, 2008 at 3:19 pm
I saw Little Missy this morning rolling around in the mulch, it was perfect….
I just got my newsletter from SDZ it says “our favorite Panda is here for at least 5 more years”.. Now, my question is, is that they are all my favorite, so is this all the Panda’s or Zhen Zhen (as her pic was displayed)…. Would like to make the loan signing ceremoney, but will have to wait for pictures…..
Moderator’s note: We’ll be unveiling more details on Thursday. Stay tuned!
December 12th, 2008 at 3:32 pm
That it was a very playful day for Bai Yun and Zhen Zhen
I was lucky to catch them playing together it was sooooooo very cute to watch them frollick all over each other 
Happy holidays to all you panda lovers and to the care takers at SD Zoo
Merry Christmas to Gao Gao,Bai Yun, Su Lin and of course Baby Zhen Zhen oxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo
Love and peace
marlene snyder
December 12th, 2008 at 4:36 pm
What an exciting day for Zhennie and Bai! Thanks for the blog on their experiences. The exhibit looks fantastic and very homey for mom and baby girl too. I love the rock sculpture around the little den two of our favorite bears love to rest upon. It seems like it was only yesterday it was only a plywood stand for Mei Sheng to shelter under when he made his public debut. Zhennie certainly seemed to enjoy the new environs as I witnessed on the cam. I just wished I hadn’t missed Bai Yun. She was busy eating when I saw her.
Thanks for sharing with us the exciting day’s activities with us who happened to miss it!
December 12th, 2008 at 4:54 pm
I envy all of you who are able to see these wonderful creatures up close and personal. All the animals at the Zoo and the Park are very lucky to have caretakers who don’t just do their job, but do their jobs so well and with so much love. Obviously the Chinese agree, and thankfully they will be signing a new agreenment with the San Diego Zoo. Here’s hoping they agree again in 5 years, and there will always be Pandas at the San Diego Zoo. Keep them wonderful blogs coming!
December 12th, 2008 at 6:02 pm
Ellie – thanks again for another wonderful update – boy, our pandas are surely loved by all.
Agghhh – so we have to wait until Thurs. for more info on the Panda Loan agreement – there must be info out there somewhere – come panda lovers – we needed some good news after hearing the ZA cam will be gone the end of the year. For a ZA Xi Lan panda fix check out 12/11/08~Xi Lan is Trying to Stand-Up on youtube-hate the fact we’ll be missing all the fun yet to come.
December 12th, 2008 at 6:48 pm
Wow! That was quick! New structures and everything!
December 12th, 2008 at 8:09 pm
The plywood “manger’ built for Mei Sheng has become a play area for Su Lin, as she is in the classroom area. A special tour of Japanese students saw her have fun there this past week!
December 13th, 2008 at 9:38 am
I received my newsletter with a pic of Miss Fluffy Butt with an appealing look in her eyes, advising that our beloved Panda’s are in desperate need of a new Bamboo Cooler – despite the ‘credit crunch’ they need a replacement so they can continue to ‘crunch’ their bamboo.
I made an online donation and feel certain the pandaholics will do their utmost to ensure they have a replacement Bamboo Cooler as soon as possible.
As a pandaholic going back to the days when Bai Yun and Shi Shi arrived, I was very pleased to learn that the Chinese will be signing a new loan agreement to keep our panda’s.
However I am ‘apprehensive’ regarding the Moderators note – #3.
I wonder what the Chinese will decide regarding Bai, Su Lin or Gao Gao’s possible return to China, especially as their country is still in ‘recovery mode’ after the devasting earthquake on May 12th.
I am keeping my fingers crossed it is all good news and our panda’s will also soon have a new Bamboo Cooler.
Moderator’s note: Thank you for your donation, Hazel. And it’s all good news regarding the panda loan agreement!
December 13th, 2008 at 9:44 am
I am never fortunate to be able to watch such playful goings-on…always too late or too early. Regarding the Panda Tales program – I too have missed the viewings here in San Jose, CA (Dec. 6 & Dec. 7). So, my husband went to our Direct TV menu and he searched for “Panda Tales”. Luckily it was still out there somewhere….he pressed ‘record’ and we now have Panda Tales saved on our DVR. We watched it the other night and we laughed so much at little ZZ and her antics. On the other hand, I am saddened to find out that Xi Lan will not be on Panda Cam after Dec. 31. HEARTBREAKING NEWS!! Hopefully something can be done for Atlanta Panda Cam. I am sure that with the economy as it is that luxury would have to be cut before other things. The main thing is that our pandas are kept well and healthy. Thanks to ALL of the panda keepers out there. MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL!
December 13th, 2008 at 10:32 am
Hey everyone! For anyone who checks out the wish list regularly there is an urgent need for a new bamboo cooler for the pandas! Please check it out!
That is awesome news on the loan for the pandas! I can’t wait to hear the details!
Happy Holidays to our wonderful pandas and to those who care for them!
December 13th, 2008 at 10:55 am
In regards to the AZ cam, I, too, would be more than willing to donate $25 or more a year to be able to continue to watch them. I was so looking forward to watching Lun Lun become Mommie Monster again.
December 13th, 2008 at 11:45 am
The new digs for the pandas looks great and they are enjoy everything. Great to hear you will have 5 more years of pandas at your zoo. I sure hope this is true for all the US zoos. It’s still so sad about the AZ losing their webcam. As one of the blogs mentioned if everyone who was a memeber of panda international gave 25 dollars they could save it for another year. I would be more than willing to do this, not just this year but every year it would be well worth it sure hope something can be worked out.
Love to all the Pandas and Panda fans
December 13th, 2008 at 12:31 pm
The new digs are nice but I feel so sorry for little Zhen as she cannot seem to find a comfortable place to sleep in the trees. I think she misses her big hammocks she had before. It is too bad they cannot put one in for her as that the one that is there is not large enough for her and their doesnt seem to be room for the two of them on the the big rock that Bai sleeps on. It was fun watching them on the ground when they first came in.
December 13th, 2008 at 12:34 pm
Fantastic news about the 5-year loan extension. That has made my Christmas. My husband has just told me, however, about the urgent need for a refrigerator for the pandas’ bamboo as the current one is breaking down. As soon as I am able, in about two weeks, I shall donate to the ‘fridge wish list’ and lets hope as many of us as possible will, so that the pandas continue to get their favourite boo. If I have to go without something, then I will, animals come first.
Their new quarters sound, and look, really lovely. I’m glad they’re enjoying them. Today it has been raining all day and has been dark and dismal. Really depressing. Wish I was there.
December 13th, 2008 at 4:59 pm
Ellie, you are such a wonderful story teller!! Thank you for allowing us the virtual experience of witnessing the beloved pandas’ cavorting, rolling, tumbling, and playing around. I can imagine, for them, it would be like what us humans would do when we move into new homes – sniff, feel, sit around, look out the windows, etc. I agree with you about the bush to the left of the ‘cave’ – I don’t think it has a long life ahead. Reminds me of when Mei Lan in Atlanta first got a taste of the outdoors. One very young sapling suffered much abuse in her hands, but oh what fun to watch her tackling that little tree!
I watched the ‘mulch rollover’ on the time-lapse – man, that was one dirty cub climbing back up into her aerie. Amazing how she can shake those mulch bits off in a short time and appear so pure and pristine again – at least on the webcam. I had the rare treat of watching Zhennie on the cam for four hours straight yesterday (Friday Dec. 12) in the afternoon. She was mostly up in the branches by her hammock playing a game of “how many sleeping positions can I assume on these branches without falling down”. So, I saw various limbs hanging down one, sometimes two, at a time, with the occasional head drooping over a branch. How she keeps her balance up there, I don’t know, but what entertainment she is!!
This afternoon (Saturday Dec 13) I see SD is getting some rain (I’m guessing from the umbrellas parading across the viewing ramp). Doesn’t seem to affect the pandas much – Gao continues to pace around his enclosure, and mama and cub are still climbing and munching out in the open. Su Lin also doesn’t seem to mind the rain. It’s great for the new plantings and the sod. Maybe it will give that ‘bush by the cave’ an extended lifeline (one can only hope).
Thanks to the panda lovers who are doing their part in trying to find options to keep the AZ panda cam running after Dec. 31st. It will be very sad to lose the real time contact with Xi Lan and Mei Lan, as well as Lun and Yang. I’m sure all the emails and phone calls have shown AZ how far reaching the effect of their panda cam decision is; I would think they would be pleased to see how much support there is for their panda cam and also how much the many panda lovers understand the reasons behind their decision. Thanks to the internet, and to the SDZ blogs, this news is reaching far and wide not just to us in North America but around the world. Let’s hope and pray for a positive outcome!
December 13th, 2008 at 6:58 pm
Ok – I got the scoop from reading the SanDiego Union – the Chinese have agreed to a five loan extension at a much lower “rent a panda” rate. I think they were forced into this arrangement because of the earthquake that damaged so much of the pandas’ habitat & they really would be hard pressed to care for any more pandas at this time. After reading about the damage to Wolong I felt sure that our pandas would be able to stay with us. So with all that’s going on in the world we panda lovers got some much needed good news
December 14th, 2008 at 8:34 am
What a thrilling time to watch the antics of Mother and Cub in the new area. I missed some of it because I am on vacation and not at my usual computer with my “favorites” addresses, and I had a difficult time finding the PandaCam with the new web site. But now I found you, and I am enjoying watching as I sip on my morning tea, afternoon tea, and evening hot cocoa… and everything in between!
I’m looking forward to maore zaniness, and I know I won’t be disappointed.
Love, Joy
December 14th, 2008 at 10:26 am
I just saw the PBS Nature special on the San Diego Zoo’s Pandas. It was absolutely delightful and I highly recommend it to anyone. I actually taped it and watch it when I want a smile. Also lots of great and interesting commentary from all who take care of them.
December 14th, 2008 at 1:52 pm
I hope the panda keepers have a Merry Christmas with their pandas!I can’t wait to see what the agreement is! I think Su Lin can stay for another few years! I hope so! She is my favorite panda!
December 14th, 2008 at 2:55 pm
I agree with everything Kathy Foster #8 said–congratulations on the extension. Can’t wait for the Tuesday announcement!
and glad to see Bai and Miss ZZ still exploring and loving their new digs. Mr. Gao Gao and Miss Su seem pretty content too–happy times in San Diego pandaland.
Moderator’s note: Details about our new loan agreement will be announced on Thursday, December 18, at 11 a.m. Please join us!
December 15th, 2008 at 7:27 am
Great news that at least ZZ will be here for 5 more years. SDZ has lots of room for the pandas, and it will help Wolong’s overcrowding while they rebuild their new facility for Bai Yun and Gao Gao to return to. Since ZZ won’t be of breeding age until then, she is the one that is in the best position to stay. Hopefully Su Lin will be able to stay for a couple more years until she is old enough for breeding. Mei Sheng went to China to breed, but he was obviously too immature this year. We look forward to hearing his breeding news in the Spring.
We will be anxiously awaiting the announcements on Thursday that we have all been hoping to hear for months since the current agreement is about to expire.
December 15th, 2008 at 8:21 am
What a great shot of ZZ and Bai this morning through the leaves. Thank you for making me smile. I want to be a Meerkat!
December 15th, 2008 at 10:18 am
Hi, I’m back again. The SDZ was quick to take me up on my offer (see #4 above) and I am glad to help. They badly need to replace their bamboo cooler and it is not cheap. I have done what I can and am now asking all the bloggers to help. We have been discussing saving the Camera at Atlanta (I also check in on little Xi Lan each day) but this problem is much bigger. SDZ has just been granted an additional 5 years of these beautiful pandas and they have to eat. The camera makes US happy but the cooler is needed to make the PANDAS happy and that is what really matters. We all know pandas are very picky in the quality of the bamboo and we also know how much they must eat to survive. They need help now. Not in China, not in Atlanta but in San Diego. Can we help out? I think so?
Sorry about the rant but I am passionate about the pandas. They mean as much to me as my cat, Cairo, does.
Let’s all help and I promise, we will feel better.
Lee
Moderator’s note: Thanks again, Lee! For those interested in helping the San Diego Zoo with our panda bamboo cooler needs, here’s the link: https://www.sandiegozoo.org/sl/wishlist/
December 15th, 2008 at 10:45 am
WOW what a great early Christmas present knowing that the Fab 4 will be with us for 5 more year who could ask for more.I caught animal planet yesterday and it was showing Growing Up Panda, it was filmed in Chengdu and showed YA Ya giving birth to her !0th Cub, what a great mom she is.So much has changed in the way pandas now survive after birth and more pandas are now being born thanks to research and better understanding of their cycles and hormones.
December 15th, 2008 at 11:17 am
Can anyone tell me if Su Lin will be on exhibit Thursday, 12/18/08?
Moderator’s note: The keepers aren’t yet sure of this week’s rotation schedule.
December 15th, 2008 at 12:09 pm
#17 Connie, there is still a hammock in the tree for ZZ. However, she appears for the moment to prefer to sleep sprawled out on the branch. She walks past the hammock out to the branch, grabs her arms around it in a hug and lies down for a nice nap.
December 15th, 2008 at 12:25 pm
I just watched the cutest exchange between Lun and Baby Xi. He was such a wiggle worm, and Lun seemed amused at his squirming. It was endearing to say the least. Then Lun took her leave, and Baby Xi was all over the place. Any day those back legs are going to actually hold that tummy up. I can’t believe we’ll not have the pleasure watching him grow on a daily basis. Has anyone who emailed ZA heard back from them?
December 15th, 2008 at 12:55 pm
There is our “big” man Gao. All curled up in his “hut” as I call it having a rainy day nap. Perfect way to spend a rainy day if you ask me!
December 15th, 2008 at 2:07 pm
Great to see Princess Su Lin munching away in the wooden “cave” in the back area. I remember ZZ in there when she was first outside. How time flies in year. You can tell it is raining that both Gao and Su Lin are seeking shelter. Like father like daughter. I guess since her big brother is no longer there for her to play with up in the trees she decided to take after dad instead.
December 15th, 2008 at 2:07 pm
Looks like it is pouring like crazy! Is that poor Su sitting in the shed trying in vain to stay dry while she eats her lunch? I thought she liked the rain..? Maybe it is too much of a good thing. It looks like it is really coming down! Saw a muddy little Z climbing way high in a tree. She looked like she was trying to get closer to the rain.
December 15th, 2008 at 2:28 pm
Xi Lan is trying so hard to crawl/walk. He got his legs up under him this afternoon, but then they fell back again. I predict he will be walking within a week. He is in the nest box and Lun is sitting just outside the box in the same room busily eating her boo. She seems not be be paying any attention, but he is intent on moving around. He started toward her, but then decided to check out the entry with the bars across it instead. What a cutie. Brings a tear to my eyes remembering last year at this same time when ZZ was learning to get her legs under her, and how determined she was to accomplish the feat. It is amazing and happens so quickly once they get the “hang” of it.
December 15th, 2008 at 2:47 pm
I made a small donation to the Panda Cooler. Hope the goal is met soon, for the sake of the Pandas!
Moderator’s note: Thank you, KK!
December 15th, 2008 at 5:57 pm
I just love those pandas, and if they need a new bamboo cooler, I am doing what I can to help, my Christmas gift to them and their keepers. Times aren’t the best, but some other less important things can wait…the pandas’ bamboo can’t! Happy Holidays SDZoo from one of your adoring pandafans! Hope all of us fans can give some to help them reach their goal, this is so much more immediate than China’s needs after the earthquake. Having met the pandas, and seen their old cooler, I feel they are very much a part of my world, and I have been so entertained and delighted by ZZ’s antics since her birth. Thanks Ellie for the nice blog about the sprucing up of the left viewing area, it looks great! Ha ha Susan (UK), you wrote it was rainy and dreary in Merrie Olde England and wish you were in SD, where it looks like it’s raining today! Maybe you’d like our arctic snow & ice? We’re having a “snow week”, enrichment for us Northwest webfoots! I bet ZZ would love this, she has a built-in slider!
Moderator’s note: Thank you for helping with our bamboo cooler needs, Marti!
December 15th, 2008 at 6:22 pm
Ellie, another good article from you that keeps us pandaholics updated with fasinating stories about these adorable animals. I am glad that princess ZZ and her mommy were enjoying this + more happy days!!!
#27 Lee thanks for bringing the Panda Cooler to my attention, I donated. I can’t believe that I missed such an important news.
Moderator’s note: Many thanks, AC!
December 15th, 2008 at 7:56 pm
Interesting info from China & the panda loan agreements —seems like there have been 31 cubs born this year to pandas related to the Chenghdu Research Center —including ZA’s XiLan. Because the earthquake damaged so much of the wild panda’s habitat & badly damaged the Wolong reseacrch center China is really unable to care for any more pandas so the US is able to benefit from their misfortune —especially as there is no info as to how the wild pandas are doing
December 15th, 2008 at 8:48 pm
You’re welcome, moderators and SDZ. Since you were so nice, I just made another small donation!
I would still donate to the ZA Panda Cam, but this is a MUCH more urgent need and, as someone mentioned earlier, VERY important for the Pandas at the SDZ. As much as I want to see Xi grow up “live” at Zoo Atlanta, I want the Pandas to be cared for, here and everywhere.
I told my hubby I was doing this. My 50th birthday is on 12/22. I’d rather give to the Pandas than to myself, this year. He thinks I’m nuts, but went along with it. Xi Lan was born on hubby’s birthday, so he’ll pretty much go along with anything regarding that cub, and, now, Pandas in general! I’ve created another Panda Lover. (And Panda Tales was shown here in San Antonio and I LOVED it!)
Priorities stink sometimes, when one is not receiving “instant gratification” that many of us (I count myself in that group) have become accustomed to! But, the thought of helping these wonderful creatures survive? It becomes instant when I really think about it! And tremendously gratifying!
Happy holidays to all!
–KK–
Moderator’s note: On behalf of our pandas, we thank you!
December 15th, 2008 at 10:24 pm
Wow–more rain at SDZ this evening. Bai Yun eats and waves her bamboo, Miss ZZ sleeps on her branch. A rainy night in pandaland and more mud to play in tomorrow!!
December 16th, 2008 at 8:49 am
Pandafan #19 – I really enjoyed your account of Zhen’s adventures on Saturday. It was a great day of watching her antics on the ground and on the tree branch. Great job Meerkats for capturing the action.
Saturday’s rain was just a drop in the bucket. Monday we had more rain and it was the worst I’ve seen in years. It was very windy, very cold and we had steady rain all day. Hopefully, the weather will be a little dryer today. It’s still too cold for me but I’m happy for the pandas. They definitely enjoy the winter climate and don’t mind the rain. Well, it’s the rainy season here in San Diego, and we certainly need it.
I’m also very concerned about the bamboo cooler. Clearly, it must be replaced. Let’s all work to keep a steady supply of fresh bamboo for our wonderful pandas whose stay in San Diego has been extended for five years
I contacted ZA regarding their impeding panda cam cancellation. I received a reply stating that they will get back to me. Hopefully, they will come up with a solution for this very sad situation.
December 16th, 2008 at 8:53 am
Quick question…………where is C7? I’ve been watching ZZ and Bai this morning, and perhaps it’s just a camera angle I’m not recognizing. Thanks!
Moderator’s note: C7 focuses on the left-hand or south exhibit where Bai Yun and Zhen Zhen spend their day.
December 16th, 2008 at 10:00 am
I share the views of many panda fans here in the sadness about the ZA cam (thank you ever so much SD for this cam and area to communicate)… BUT! I keep thinking that the $ we would all donate to keep the cam for our viewing pleasure would be VERY much appreciated in other panda helping areas! The SD bamboo cooler, donations to build new reserve in China, milk for the babies…. But boy would I ever miss the cam!
December 16th, 2008 at 10:37 am
Rose (#42), I am so glad that you got a response from ZA. I emailed them also and didn’t get a reply and I know there were some other bloggers that mentioned they too, had emailed the zoo and hadn’t heard anything back. Please keep us posted!! Moderator, I have a request, if it is at all possible. I also made a donation to the bamboo cooler. Obviously this is an urgent need for SDZ. I was wondering if you would be able to put some sort of donation tracker on the website so that we can see how close we are getting to reaching the goal for the cooler. For example, I have seen some websites (like the American Cancer Society) use a thermometer to illustrate how much they have received towards a goal. Would something like that be at all possible..?
Moderator’s note: Thank you for your question. As of right now (Dec 16 at 11:41 a.m. PST), we have raised $63,730 towards our goal of $112,550. We are still in desperate need of support at any dollar amount. We are hoping to raise the $112,550 needed for our giant pandas in the next week or two as their old bamboo cooler is on its last leg.
As this appeal was something we had to toss together as quickly as possible, we did not have time to form one of those donation thermometers you see on other Web sites. That said, if you go to our online bamboo cooler donation page, you will see for each donation level ($5, $25, $100 and $1,000) there is a line that indicates how many contributions are still needed. Once all of the “number needed” amounts read zero, we will have reached our goal. Thank you again for your question and your support!
December 16th, 2008 at 10:44 am
I agree Suzanne (the other one), the $$ are very much appreciated especially with this cooler emergency in SD; I have a belief that animal lovers, especially those of us sensitive to the plight of pandas (and polar bears, etc) have bigger hearts than bank accounts, that we all are making a sacrifice of other expenses in these tight times (I am unemployed and not getting unemployment checks either) when we donate to our beloved animals. Helping SDZoo keep their pandas (who we get a lot of benefit out of watching) happy seems like we are contributing not only to this zoo and these animals but to the common good. We are all enriched by pandas’ presence on this planet, and blessed that we can watch them on our home computers, even if it is on dial-up! (which works quite well with SDZ’s pandacam, not so ZooAtlanta’s).
December 16th, 2008 at 11:01 am
I disagree, Elle, I think Bai is rather active when it comes to initiating play with ZZ. I have been impressed because of her advanced age. She keeps up quite nicely. ZZ will either keep her young or wear her out. The one thing I love about bears is that they seem to actually enjoy their offsprings. However, I have also seen them mow over their cub to get to a fresh piece of bamboo.
December 16th, 2008 at 11:55 am
Hey Marti # 37, how are you doing? Yes, I laughed when I realised it was actually raining in good old San Diego! Bet it wasn’t as depressing as here though – it rained ALL day and I had to have the light on at midday so I could see my cross stitching. My cats blamed me for the rain and gave me dirty looks all day. I wouldn’t care if it was pouring if I had pandas and polar bears to visit. I feel terrible that I actually haven’t got any spare cash at the moment for the cooler, but I’ll definitely be giving on Christmas Day.
December 16th, 2008 at 1:05 pm
Wow!!
Are my eyes deceiving me?? It looks to me like $64,000 has been raised towards the bamboo cooler!!
Way to go Pandaholics – we CAN do this!!
December 16th, 2008 at 2:09 pm
BEAUTIFUL close up of ZZ on the cam right now, just breathtaking. I also donated to the bamboo cooler – I live in NY and probably will never get to SDZ to see these beautiful creatures but I can help out monetarily. I want to add my heartfelt thanks to SDZ for providing this cam and blog.
Moderator’s note: Thank you for helping our pandas, Michelle.
December 16th, 2008 at 2:13 pm
Hi Susan! Happy holidays to you & family! We’re slippin’ and slidin’ here in the usually gray rainy Northwest, I think I’d prefer the usual (like what you had, dreary winter rain) to the forecast of freezing rain with snow and more arctic temps tomorrow…But look what a nice sunny day it is in SD, gorgeous Bai Yun is munching away in sunshine and her equally gorgeous cub has been snoozing all morning on a branch! I wonder why they were both on cam in their ‘bedroom’ until so late today (9′ish), pacing around, nosing around the door and window–was something special put out there, like scents or treats? Or was it just still being spruced up until then? Little ZZ went right up her tree and zonked, like she was awake all night! (maybe she was?) Her hammock situation has been very altered, where’s the panda-camo one? The other day she was chewing on a loose strap of that one made out of recycled firehose, the little mischief! That’s great that so much has been raised in a short time, half way there! Yes, we CAN do this! Yay us!!
December 16th, 2008 at 2:21 pm
I’m glad Rose heard from ZA. I think the webcam in ZA is very important to the preservation of the panda in the big picture. It’s a wonderful educational tool in so many ways. Perhaps someone who really didn’t know about the ZZ and the great work SDZ is doing just happen to watch Panda Tales; they check out the panda cam; they check out other panda cams. There’s a disaster in China; there’s a need for a cooler in San Diego, etc. , they see that donations are needed. I’m not saying this very eloquently, but I believe not only do the cams entertain us, they spread the love for our giant pandas, and the urgency of the preservation and conversation efforts.
December 16th, 2008 at 3:26 pm
Thanks for the head’s up on the bamboo cooler situation, I just called and made a donation. Wish I could do more, but it looks like a lot of pandaholics are stepping up for this worthy cause!
Rose, thanks for the info on AZ cam situation. I have not received any reply to my email of last week, so I’m very glad to hear that they are taking our comments into consideration.
It’s hard to believe I ever led a panda-free life, lol! They bring such joy and wonder! God bless them all and their terrific keepers, too!
Moderator’s note: Thank you for your donation!
December 16th, 2008 at 3:30 pm
Well said – Marti #46 and Linda #52
December 16th, 2008 at 4:39 pm
Panda bears bring us all so much joy, and ask for nothing in return. We take a yearly trip out to SD and make sure that we visit the SDZ each time we go. Last year was a special trip. We were in San Diego the day before Zhen Zhen’s debut and visited with Su Lin and Gao Gao. The exhibit was virtually empty so we got to have the two bears all to ourselves for over 2 hours. It was amazing. Then we went back to the zoo bright and early the next morning to see our little girl come out in public for the first time. We even saved the Union Tribune’s front page from that day with Zhen Zhen’s little eyes peering out. Little did I know that Zhen’s debut day would be a memorable day in another way. That evening, we went to Coronado Island to watch the sunset (still bubbling from the excitement of seeing Bai and Zhen), where my boyfriend proposed. It was fitting that our engagement day started out with a trip to see our favorite bears. Although, we won’t be able to make it out to SDZ for our engagement anniversary as we hoped, we will be thinking about our bears and hope that the small donation we made today will help ensure that a spiffy new cooler will be brought by santa this year.
Moderator’s note: Thank you for sharing your special day with us and for helping with the ‘boo cooler!
December 16th, 2008 at 7:27 pm
Rose N. #42- I’m a Zoo Atlanta member and I emailed them also about the Panda Cam situation. I don’t know if waving my membership card will add any more weight but it’s worth a try. Oddly enough I did get a mailer from them asking us if we could donate to some of the charities in the Atlanta area.
December 16th, 2008 at 8:57 pm
Late this afternoon, I received an email from Marla entitled “Panda Bamboo Cooler Update dated today 16 Dec. ‘08. The update states that as of right now (Tue, 16 Dec. 2008 16:58:06 -0800) “we have raised $64,345.” As most of us have already made a contribution, Marla thanks everyone and urges us to forward this information on to anyone we think may be able to help. Marla also says, “If everyone that sees this email gives only $5 we could have a new bamboo cooler funded by the end of this weekend”. How wonderful is that. As Joan #49 stated, “We can do this”.
I have contacted some of my local and out-of-state friends and asked them; if possible, to try and send at least $5 or more to help the SDZ pandas obtain the desperately needed bamboo cooler as soon as possible.
As Joan #49 stated, “We can do this”.
December 16th, 2008 at 9:32 pm
That ‘boo cooler is definitely a priority. I keyed in my donation online yesterday, and today I got an email update from SDZ on how much has been raised. We’re gonna do this, panda lovers. Our pandas need their ‘boo. And if something comes up on the campaign to bring back the ZA panda cam, I’ll be in on that, too.
December 16th, 2008 at 9:35 pm
I can’t wait to see the newly renovated enclosure on my next visit! I certainly pray that you will reach your goal to have the necessary fundings to get the new cooler! ZZ was so cute today, she is so smart that while napping, she had her paw over her eye to block the sun, wow, I was really impressed by her intelligence!
December 17th, 2008 at 5:34 am
Congratulations on raising over $64,000 since last Friday towards the bamboo cooler. I received your update email, and will be sending another donation in lieu of a holiday gift. I wish that I could send more, but due to layoffs I am currently unemployed. I have not heard from ZA, and one PU member who was told to call the Panda Curator was told that they were not allowed to transfer any calls to her. The marketing person told another member to get pledges for donations, and then have the people send the money in all at once. They don’t want donations trickling in, and I don’t think that they want to post a plea on their website. Maybe they don’t want the cam? My limited donations this year will go to SDZ, NZ, Memphis and Pandas International. Thank you San Diego for all that you do for these beloved pandas.
Best wishes to everyone for a joyous holida.
December 18th, 2008 at 12:40 pm
Wow — great close-up shots of little Zhen Zhen up in her favorite branches — taking a little rest. She was just stretching and yawning — and the shots are so close-up and clear — that I can count all her teeth. She is so cute and cuddley — just a joy to watch. It’s actually a bit sunny today — so I’m sure she’s enjoying the respite from all the rain we’ve had lately. She better take advantage of her dry perch today — as more rain is on it’s way. Thanks for the close-ups — they are a treat!!
December 18th, 2008 at 12:50 pm
I don’t like to post stuff about other zoo’s on here, but if anyone missed Xi Lan being taken out into the dayroom for the first time yesterday, please go on to YouTube. It was the funniest thing I have ever seen. I can’t imagine what was going on in Lun Lun’s head. Thank goodness Nessie posted it online (with music). I think even the staff at the San Diego Zoo might enjoy it. I don’t think Xi Lan did though. Boy, pandas sure are durable.
December 18th, 2008 at 1:06 pm
I think this blog must be down; but I’ll try anyway. I just received a confirmation that my email to ZA was deleted without being read. I understand they can’t answer everyone but it wasn’t even read.
December 18th, 2008 at 1:58 pm
Did something happen yesterday to the panda blog? I wrote two comments and both of them disappeared and so did most of the other blogs.
I made a donate to the panda cooler Tuesday and also to some of the animals wishlist. Hope you get your quota before the cooler goes out.
I sure wish there was a way to get a fund going to save the webcam in AZ. Yesterday I got to see Lun Lun take Xi Lan for the big tour and out to the dayroom for a early viewing for some lucky visitors to the zoo. Even the staff at the zoo was very surprise by this.
I was just watching Bai and ZZ having a good time together playing and rolling around they are so much fun to watch.
I hope everyone is about ready for the big day coming up in just 7 days I bet all the animals are counting the days for all their goodies.
Well Merry Christmas to All
Moderator’s note: Yes, our blog section had some technical difficulties yesterday (12/17) that have now be resolved, we hope! Thank you all for your patience.
December 18th, 2008 at 4:01 pm
So glad that the blog site is up again. Here is what I was trying to send yesterday.
My heart was in my stomach Wednesday norming when I opened the AZ cam. Lun Lun had Xi Lan in the large inside yard and was carrying him around by the scruff of the neck. Up and down and up and down the wood structure. I wa afraid she was going to either put him down on one of the logs or drop him. What a sight! Then she spent the next 10 minutes dragging him around the floor as if she was out for her morning walk. Lun just wouldn’t let him go. It was a sight to see. I wonder if pandas get “road rash”?
One good thing came out of Xi Lan’s new yard. I then saw him standing up on all 4 legs. The traction must be so much better here than on the cement. He actually was looking around and probably quite proud of himself. I hope someone is able to put this on youtube so everyone can see it.
Now onto Thursdays news. What is the new news re the extension of Bai, Gao et all?
Moderator’s note: The newly extended cooperative agreement spans five years, allowing the adult giant pandas (Bai Yun and Gao Gao) to stay in San Diego. Young pandas born in San Diego will remain at the Zoo’s Giant Panda Research Station until they are four years old. An important aspect of this new loan agreement is the dedication of most of the annual $500,000 fee to the rebuilding of the China Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Panda at the Wolong National Nature Reserve.
December 18th, 2008 at 5:01 pm
My heart also skipped a few beets yesterday when I watched Lun Lun taking Xi Lan for a “walk”. She must have gone up and down the wooden structure for the hammock at least three times. Going up was OK but getting down, specially form the higher part, I am still amazed she didn’t kill the poor thing. At one point she put him down and I could barely see his head and was relieved he was still moving. Then she step aside a bit and I noticed he had the hiccup… I also saw him kind of getting on his four legs. But he didn’t really walk. Lun Lun never left him alone for long. If you haven’t read the update of his outing on the AZ it is worth it and there are 2 new pictures.
A few days ago ZZ was eating next to her mother and then I think she wanted to put some bamboo away for later and managed to take a big branch up into her hammock, that branch was huge and really sticking out and then she went to sleep on a branch. Obviously Bai didn’t miss that and later she recovered the branch and ate it herself… Poor ZZ, hopefully she still get enough milk from her mommy…
December 18th, 2008 at 5:03 pm
Thank you for the agreement information. With your annual contribution and the relief fundmonies being allocated to the rebuilding of the Wolong Research Center I am sure the site will be open for business much sooner than expected. I have read about the money that was donated by the people of Hong Kong and their pledge to provide another 5 million HK$. So many people are helping the pandas and panda research.
The bamboo cooler is almost on order! We band together when needed, don’t we.
One last question – does San Diego Zoo staff decide if Bai Yun and Gao Gao will mate again or is that something that is decided in China? Nosy aren’t I.
December 18th, 2008 at 5:12 pm
Thank you for the update on the panda agreement! I’m thrilled that ‘our’ pandas will stay a while longer and we’ll be able to enjoy them. I’m actually a bit surprised that Gao Gao gets to stay the full time. I was a bit apprehensive that he would only be allowed to stay thru Bai Yun’s next possible estrus and then, due to valuable wild genes, might be asked to go back to China to ’share’ those genes with other lucky panda ladies!
Phew! I get to see his absolutely adorable bamboo munching face for 5 more years!
We are so very lucky! Thank you SDZ for all your work in making this happen and continuing to share these wonderful creatures with us!
I’m also glad the extension allows ZZ to stay for a while longer. I was thinking worst case… if it wasn’t extended, that she’d be traveling/leaving early in 2009!
YAY, panda stay extended and pandamaniacs VERY happy! Now we really need to make sure we get the new ‘boo cooler’!
December 18th, 2008 at 7:13 pm
#62 carol: Thank you soooo much for the head’s up on LCNessie’s amazing youtube post (very aptly titled!). The ZA daily update on this little expedition did not do it justice — I felt so bad for poor little Xi Lan! And I suspect that Lun was looking for the hammock, although it’s funny to watch this and think about how she would fling Mei Lan to the ground every time she tried to climb the structure.
And I am so honored to be in the company of such generous people! It looks like the ‘boo cooler is rapidly becoming a well-funded reality!!
And a big, loud YAY for the great news on the agreement with China! There really ARE miracles happening this Christmas!!
December 18th, 2008 at 7:21 pm
Many many thanks for the info about the videos on “you tube” of Xi Lan’s first excursion with Lun out into the day room. They are price-less. I had tears in my eyes to see how deliberately and carefully Lun carried him around the room, and placed him so gently on the climbing structure so he could feel it, smell it, and see it. She even showed him how to get down from it, and gently carried him in her mouth and big arms and paws. It was an incredible sight, especially because she was so overly protective of Mei Lan in her earliest days on the same structure. It showed me that panda mother school at its very best. Lun seemed to be very deliberate in what she was doing, and how and why. I am very sad to think that we will miss theses live event, but hopefully will get to see many of them captured on videos from ZA or from visitors who are lucky enough to see it in person. It is tragic what the current worldwide economic situation is causing in human suffering which will result unfortunately in animal suffering too. Most non-profits such as SDZ and ZA are hurting very much due to loss of corporate sponsorships. Like me, many people aren’t able to contribute like we want to because we are no longer employed. We must all pray, and wait for a better day to come soon.
Until then, my profound thanks to all who care for these marvelous animals in so many ways, and for those who capture these precious moments forever in still and video images, and who share them for all of us to enjoy. It is as close to being there in person that many people will ever get to experience. Thank you SDZ for negotiating the new agreement to keep Bai and Gao here for 5 more years to help us preserve this very special species.
Happy Holidays one and all!
December 18th, 2008 at 9:21 pm
I’m so glad the blogs are back, and that’s great news about the extension–I hope there are always pandas at SDZ and that someday I’ll see them in person (in panda?). Miss ZZ looked happy and relaxed, basking on her branch as the agreement was being signed. She must have known things were going to work out well. Now, when that cooler situation gets resolved, it will be a Merry Panda Christmas for sure.
December 18th, 2008 at 10:54 pm
Moderator: Welcome back. I thought that somehow the torrential rains we had yesterday (Wednesday) had something to do with the panda blog crashing
I am very happy to hear the wonderful news regarding the new extension that will allow Bai Yun and Gao Gao to remain here with us another five years!
Yesterday (Wednesday), at 8:15 AM PT, I was watching the AZ cam and got to see Xi Lan’s first visit
to the dayroom. This was the Xi Lan’s first time out of the den and it was quite an adventure lasting approximately 45 minutes. I immediately decided to download the video.
I was surprised to see Lun Lun and her cub in the dayroom. Lun Lun was acting confused and seemed to be trying to find a safe place to put her cub down. She paced all around the dayroom, while holding Xi Lan by the scruff of the neck. As Lun Lun tired from carrying the weight of the cub, she continued to hold him in her mouth and at the same time push him along the ground with her right foot. For some reason Lun Lun decided to climb up the structure made of tree branches – which was quite frightening to watch. Lun placed Xi Lan up against two crossed branches and held the cub close to her chest. After a few minutes, Lun brought her cub back down. All in all, Lun Lun climbed the structure twice with the cub in her mouth.
Finally, Lun Lun settled down near the viewing window – no visitors were at the window at this time. While resting on the ground, Lun Lun was panting heavily. Xi Lan was lying very still. After a few minutes, Lun Lun left her cub to eat some bamboo. Xi Lan turned and started scooting towards his mom and she returned immediately. After two very quick trips to get a bite to eat, Lun Lun also nursed her cub twice. Xi Lan also got a quick bath from his mom at the end of his first fun adventure away from his birthing den.
After Xi Lan’s great adventure, I immediately decided to post a blog detailing the wonderful morning’s viewing. Much to my surprise the panda blog system had crashed. I was starting to have panda blog withdrawals. The panda blog is back and I’m alright now
Moderator’s note: We were having more than withdrawals when our comment section “disappeared.” A big thank you to our Web Team for getting everything back online!
December 18th, 2008 at 11:32 pm
Calling all panda lovers!! There is an awesome video on youtube showing Lun Lun giving her Prince Xi Lan an early preview of the dayroom. It is breathtaking – she carried the cub in her mouth the whole time (4+ minutes), taking him up the climbing structure, over all the logs, then walking him around the room, dragging him through piles of bamboo. It is unlike anything I have ever seen before. Search for “Lun Our Star, Provides Xi Debut” or you can also search for “My Twip to Hell and Back” (too funny)!!. It is unforgettable. Do not miss it. It is a wonderful memory to have especially knowing that we may not see that again for a long long time. Make sure you download it for keeps.
December 19th, 2008 at 5:45 am
Lee # 65 talked about Mama Lun carrying her baby boy around by the scruff of the neck. Up and down and the wood structure, and inspected almost every inch of the sunroom, I remember Bai Yun had done the same thing when Su Lin was about the same age of Xi Lan, some lucky visitors were surprised to see baby Su Lin for the first time before public debut. Fortunately SDZ had recorded this incident and put on their video archives.
December 19th, 2008 at 8:16 am
Greetings from cold, snowy Michigan where they’re forecasting upwards of 10″ of snow for my area.
I’m absolutely delighted over the extension news and consider it one of the best Christmas gifts ever!
According to the updates at the ZA site, keepers weren’t initially aware Xi Lan had moved. Seems Lun Lun decided it was time for a road trip. Keepers were then alerted that the little guy was in the day room and a few lucky visitors got a sneak peek (he’s not formally on display yet). What a treat that must have been and I’m so jealous…
December 19th, 2008 at 8:57 am
Panda Fans: Goggle NBC Panda Prices Plunge in San Diego, then click on the their web page. There’s an interesting article concerning the rent reduction for all the pandas. Also, on that page, there is a photo of an adorable Chinese panda cub standing at the threshold of his enclosure – click on the photo to enlarge it. I know it will make your day! (I printed out the enlarged photo and added it to my panda scrapbook.)
Tony #56 – We’re all doing our part to save the AZ panda cam. Many have written and phoned AZ with no success. Most panda fans from coast-to-coast are doing their best to get the AZ to heed our plea. It has been well over a week since they replied to my email as follows: “your concerns and questions are important to us. Someone will contact you.” There has been no contact to date.
I’m keeping the faith and praying that they will rescind the cam cancellation. However, I’m starting to lose hope. As you know, their plan is to keep everyone happy with regular updates and videos of the little guy. Indeed, we will greatly miss the live viewing
December 19th, 2008 at 10:14 am
Lee #67,
Whether or not Bai Yun and Gao Gao mate will be determined by Bai Yun and Gao Gao! If they seem so inclined, we will not stand in their way. In general, our panda team handles decisions for husbandry, breeding and research in house. The staff of Wolong have been generous with their trust of our expertise and decision-making.
December 19th, 2008 at 10:45 am
Love the new digs for the girls. Great news about the extensions for Bai and Gao. They are such special bears. Sent in my contribution for the cooler last night. Looks like the total raised is getting closer to the goal.l
Moderator’s note: Thank you for your contribution, Mary!
December 19th, 2008 at 10:45 am
Moderator: You are the best! Please know that I appreicate your diligence as well as your immediate attention to my goofy mistakes, omissions, etc.
Have a happy and wonderful Christmas and I hope that Santa brings you all that your heart desires.
Moderator’s note: You’re very welcome, Rose. That’s what we’re here for!
December 19th, 2008 at 10:48 am
I just watched the you tube videos on Xi’s great expedition! While I saw it live, it’s too fun to watch again. Also posted back October 2007 is Mei Lan – Ghostbuster. lcnessie does a great job with the music and “captions.”
I watching the SDZ cam early this morning, and was amazed at the sight of everything looking like it was black and white (because of the time of day) then slowing turning to stunning color. It was very cool.
If anything hears from ZA, will you let us all know? I can’t believe we’ll loose the cam so soon.
December 19th, 2008 at 10:54 am
Oh, sorry for another quick post. I want to thank SDZ for the postcard feature. My sister in law has a brain tumor; she’s on her computer a lot of the day. I often send her postcards of the cuteness happening in SDZ, and she loves them! Thank you for making her day.
Moderator’s note: You’re very welcome. It’s always nice to read compliments. And we do have a lot of cuteness to go around!
December 19th, 2008 at 11:30 am
Suzanne, thank you for your answer. The reason I asked was that I know China is trying to get a certain number of pandas for their gene pool and didn’t know if the number of off-spring from the same parents was entered into that equation. I guess our limited knowledge drives you crazy with the questions we ask. We are like sponges though, trying to absorb everything we can.
Thank you again, Lee
December 19th, 2008 at 11:34 am
If you want to see Xi Lan “walking” in the day room during his famous outing, search on YouTube for “XiLan’s lesson” or “Xi Lan 2008-12-17″
December 19th, 2008 at 12:45 pm
I’m glad the blog is back up and going strong it made me panick when it disappeared. I’ve learn so much from it from the panda lover and the SDZ moderators on it.
I’m been watching all the pandas this morning late at the SDZ Gao was going for his walk all over his space. Momma BAi was busy eating and ZZ was naping. Over at the NZ sll the pandas were also naping and at the AZ little Xi was busy getting his legs builted up so far no long trips today.
So happy about the new time the pandas can stay in the US.
I want to thank the zoo for the wonderful card I got for my donation this Christmas. I hope everyone there has a safe and wonderful Holiday.
December 19th, 2008 at 12:47 pm
“XiLan’s lesson” which Danielle #83 referred to is adorable. It reminded me of the day that Miss ZZ spent trying to climb over the sill of Bai Yun’s bedroom to go outside. Every once in a while, Bai Yun would swoosh by her and she’d start all over again. They are such determined little creatures, and are quite “durable” as someone said earlier in the blog stream–I was sure that Lun Lun had squooshed Xi Lan on one of the branches climbing down from her structure on their tour the other day.
Miss ZZ just let out a couple of big yawns and shifted her adorable fluffy self on her branch. You’re right, Moderator #81–you do have a lot of cuteness to go around.
And what’s the new total on the cooler? It looks like it’s really growing.
From our Wish List coordinator: Update as of 12/19/08 12:04 PM PST.
As of this minute we have raised $92,833 for our much-needed bamboo cooler for our giant pandas. We are within reach of our $112,550 goal. We have just less than $20,000 left to raise. Please consider telling a friend (or two) about our urgent need as we are so close to reaching our goal for our pandas. To make a donation, please visit our online Wish List page at https://www.sandiegozoo.org/sl/wishlist/
For any of you out there who would like to made a donation to the bamboo cooler in lieu of giving holiday gifts for your loved ones, we have formed a lovely certificate that we can e-mail to you and you can print off at home for your gift recipients. To receive your bamboo cooler certificate contact us at wishlist@sandiegozoo.org or 619-557-3915.
December 19th, 2008 at 12:50 pm
I’m not feeling so terrible now, my lovely lovely husband said I could make a donation to the bamboo cooler as a Christmas present. I’m glad to have helped and when I’m solvent again (!) I’ll make another donation myself. I hope everyone is ready for Christmas, although for some reason it doesn’t feel like Christmas this year.
Moderator’s note: Thank you both! Please see note below for an update on how much has been raised so far, thanks to the generosity of panda fans everywhere.
December 19th, 2008 at 1:33 pm
I have faith that the $20,000 will be raised – if it hasn’t already been raised by Christmas Eve, I say watch what we Pandaholics do on Christmas day – for a real Christmas miracle!
I believe!!
December 19th, 2008 at 1:43 pm
Wish I could see Lun Lun or Xi Lan,but I need plug-ins. Grr!
Lucky people who do get to see them,tell me more!
December 19th, 2008 at 1:53 pm
Susan # 86 — You sure have a lovely, lovely husband — as I recall he sent you and your daughter here for the Pandas and Polars weekend. Give him a Christmas hug from me too — as a thank you as well!
December 19th, 2008 at 3:04 pm
I agree, Cheryl (#89) – Susan (UK) does indeed have a lovely, lovely husband. She was SO lucky to get to go to the Panda’s, Polar’s and Pancakes event. I live LOTS closer than she and unfortunately was not able to attend. Sometimes we have to experience our dreams through the adventures of other bloggers on this site – like Mary (#78) who got to go to Woolong and hold a panda cub! Glad to hear we are almost at the goal for the cooler. Can’t imagine how my buddy Gao would make it thru the day without lots of fresh favorite boo! Can you believe it is almost Christmas? Time has flown by so quickly. Time for the AZ panda cam is running out way too fast – just as things are starting to get exciting back there. Seriously, how many of your hearts were in your throat as you watched Lun drag Xi all over the place? Up and down, up and down with him hanging limply from her mouth like a rag panda… Mommy monster indeed!!! But – we love her just the same. Bai just seems so calm and collect compared to Lun.
December 19th, 2008 at 4:43 pm
I just saw the coolest thing on C4 — a gentleman came in with an ARM LOAD of boo. How much does an arm load like that weigh? He had a interchange with Mom, who looked at him when he was talking. So sweet. Then he appeared to be putting treats around the exhibit. I want that job!!!
Moderator’s note: Our keeper says that armload of bamboo weighed about 12 kilograms (26 pounds). He then placed carrots and folivore biscuits around the exhibit.
December 19th, 2008 at 5:44 pm
I made two gift donations and received certificates tofill in and give to the recipients. The certificate has a panda (of course) sitting and eating bamboo among some bamboo trees. It’s beautiful.
Moderator’s note: It’s the least we can do, Jeri. Thank you!
December 19th, 2008 at 6:27 pm
My impression of Lun Lun taking Xi Lan on walkabout, was that she was giving him a tour of the room. Then, when it sort of looked like she was dragging him across every surface, it gave me the impression she was using him to [try to] scent-mark the ground and structure. It was reminiscent of Bai Yun taking little miss ZZ out, at night if I’m not mistaken, before the humans were expecting it. I’m imagining a “phone call” between Lun and Bai about cub tours, but I’m no P Wong…
December 19th, 2008 at 7:04 pm
What a relief to know our pandas will be with us for 5 more years & at a reduced panda rental rate – though it sounds like our cubs are due to return to China when they’re 4 years old – maybe some more negotiating can be done about that.
Am still laughing over the video of LunLun dragging poor XiLan all over the day room -what a change from her first cub, Lani, who wasn’t alllowed a foot off the ground before mom dragged her down. Am still sick that we’ll miss all the fun times once the ZA panda cam is gone – can only hope all visitors take pity on us & post as many vidoes to youtube as possible.
I also made a donation to the bamboo cooler instead of another present for our only grandchild – with the hope that he’ll be able to see a live giant panda in his lifetime.
And lastly regarding Bai & papa Gao mating again – I think the Chinese have figured out that the SD Zoo & our pandas know how to produce wonderful, healthy cubs. Why take the chance (with their ages) of moving them back to China to try & mate with an unknown —I understand that female pandas are VERY PICKY with a possible mate & as Bai & Gao are very comfortable with each other & have produced 3 healthy cubs why make a change. Once the SD cubs are returned to China their papa Gao’s wild genes can be introduced into the gene pool.
Moderator’s note: Thank you, Maureen!
December 19th, 2008 at 9:33 pm
I’m sure Maureen #94 is right–it would be extreme folly to try to breed Bai Yun to a strange mate (logging on to pandachemistry.com every night–just imagine!) since she and Mr. Gao Gao have had such success and produced such lovely cubs.
December 20th, 2008 at 7:38 am
Gao Gao’s genes are valuable in the panda gene pool, it’s true. It’s my understanding that the NZ staff used Gao’s sperm to artificially inseminate Mei Xiang in 2007. (The frozen sample was flown from SD to DC.) My human sensibilities were a tiny bit offended (what would Tian think, after all!) but of course I realize that these are endangered animals and the giant panda gene pool would benefit from expansion. Bai is a four-time mom and her eldest female offspring has proven to be quite fertile, as well, so the panda researchers in China must have the utmost confidence in their SDZ counterparts.
Provided that the family trees of the adult pandas at ZA and NZ don’t intersect, it would be phenomenal if Tai Shan and Mei Lan were moved together to one of the US zoos that has been petitioning for a giant panda exhibit. Or, since more than one US zoo is clamoring for pandas, Su Lin and Tai Shan could each go to a different zoo and a panda of the opposite gender could be brought from China for each of them so the gene pool could be expanded further. This would help with any crowding issues they may currently have in China because of this year’s explosion in panda births and because of the earthquake damage. I know this is all wishful thinking on my part, but I hate to see the pandas go (Tai and Su will both be 4 this year). The fact that they are already known and adored would be an even bigger draw for any zoo to which they would be moved.
December 20th, 2008 at 8:55 am
Our flickr group, named for our sweet little Zhen Zhen, raised $500 for the bamboo cooler. It was donated over the last week. We are proud to have been able to help our dear SDZ pandas. Don’t worry, little Zhen Zhen, Santa Claws will still get a bootiful big girl present for you, too!
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to our beloved pandas everywhere, their dedicated keepers, researchers, and volunteers, and of course to the panda fans that help support their very existence!
Stacy
Moderator’s note: Our thanks to the flickr group!
December 20th, 2008 at 9:23 am
To all: Merry Christmas!
We are all going to miss the Atlanta pandacam!
To Joy in Kansas #93: I thought the same regarding Lun Lun when I watched the video. I was holding my breath as I watched, and also remembered how Lun didn’t want Mei Lan climbing….this time around, Lun seemed to want to show Xi Lan that climbing can be fun
The SDZ cam has given us some great views of all the Stars! I cannot thank the MeerKats enough for the joy of watching the antics! I hope you all were able to watch Zhen literally reach down and take a piece of bamboo away from Bai yesterday! What a treat!!!
December 20th, 2008 at 11:16 am
Well, I was kind of busy till my last day of work 12/18/2008. So now I catch up with panda news… (the bamboo cooler dying event reminds me of my dying refrigerator just this past May)
Conversation with Gao Gao #51
Tourist: Hello, Gao Gao.
Gao Gao: Hello, Mr. Tourist.
T: You seem to hum a familiar tune there.
G: Huh? Uh…
T: Something on your mind?
G: Not particularly. You mean I hum when I get ready to eat?
T: Sounds like it.
G: You know, I never thought of that.
T: But you know what?
G: What?
T: The rhythm sounds a little like the bamboo cooler.
G: Hmmm… The cooler’s got some rhythm, doesn’t it?
T: Yeah… The dying cooler.
G: Maybe we should record it?
T: Huh? You mean to play it when the cooler dies?
G: You don’t suppose anyone would be interested in buying the recordings?
T: Well, you never know. But I’m more likely to think not.
G: Well, maybe we’ll play it when we get a new quiet cooler.
(in a practicing area)
Zhen Zhen: Step, hop. Step, turn…
Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Dunder, Blixem: CHA-A! CHA-A! CHA-A!
(then singing)
Please help Gao Gao sing a new song.
Please contribute funds for new bamboo cooler.
December 20th, 2008 at 11:37 am
Hi, you all! Barbara in Midwest, I finally got the Memphis Zoo website going. I remembered that when I downloaded the new IE8 into my computer, this has a link to website compatability, so I hit that to see if that would get the MZ website going; it did! I was able to get on the keeper logs to read about Ya Ya and Le Le. Not much news there right now. Ya Ya is still not showing any signs of estrus yet, and we’re about 2 weeks away from the end of 2008! She could ultimately miss out on her estrus season totally this year! That’ll be a first! Hopefully, Ya will get her act together in the spring, 2009, and she’ll have a baby by next summer. I still need to get back on the MZ panda page to check their pandacam to see if it is back online.
Read the newest update. Looks like Bai and ZZ have been very busy making their renovated home a lot more homey for themselves. Been getting on the SDZ pandacam, and I’ve been able to see ZZ in her favorite large branch napping and/or moving around on the tree branch while momma Bai eats her boo a few times. Thanks to the cam people for getting those great shots! A couple of those shots were nice closeups of ZZ on her tree branch.
Been on the AZ pandacam alot to watch little Xi Lan. He’s been doing alot of scooting around in his den trying to get to mom. One day, I watched Xi try to climb over the small wall in the den with Lun sitting right by there eating her boo. Another day, he was in the middle of boo napping! The update written on Thursday told about Xi getting too wiggley for the small scale, so they are starting to use the big bear scale to weigh him now. Xi is around 12 1/2 pounds and still growing. They had a great pic of Xi and Lun with that update showing Lun sitting and Xi nursing. The one thing that really struck me was the size of this little cub! He has grown up on a huge scale that he’s about the size of Lun’s stomach! He’s still a small cub, but remembering how tiny he was over 100 days ago to where he’s at now just astonishes me! Man, how fast these panda cubs grow!! Momma Lun can’t hold him like she did a couple of months ago! We’ve got another couple of weeks of watching the AZ pandacam, and I’m still hoping that AZ will have a good solution to this pandacam dilemma soon. Rose, I’m glad that you got some kind of a response from AZ about this. I’m sure that they have been inundated with emails and phone calls from all of us pandafans over the last couple of weeks since they announced the news about the cam. I’ve been trying to get in touch with them myself, and I will keep trying to do that. Somehow, this pandacam has got to be saved from “EXTINCTION”!
I also read about your “boo cooler” from the other guys on this blog page. Praying that you get the money that you need to get your new cooler for the bamboo! That will be a great Christmas present for you all! I don’t have any money to donate for this, but I’m pulling for you to be able to buy your new cooler!
Well, the kids are out of school for the Christmas/New Year break! FUN!!! My son went with his school this past week to our own local zoo in Tampa, Florida–the Lowry Park Zoo, and he said that he enjoyed it alot (he’s 16, and it takes alot for him to enjoy something!). Unfortunately, you all have probably heard of our local zoo’s problems with the director, who is now without his job as of Friday. Please be thinking about this zoo, ok? They have a great collection of animals there, most of them endangered, and have a great conservation program. I want to see a huge turnaround in 2009 for them!
Pandas International sent me their email newletter this week about their 2008 year. They are still trying to find out more about the wild pandas in Sichuan province, and are greatful for all of the donations up to now that has helped them get the supplies and equipment to Wolong and Bifengxia after the earthquake hit. They still have a long way to go in China in their rebuilding efforts. I also watched “The Year of the Animals” on Animal Planet the other nite, and they had a segment about the pandas in China after the quake. There is still a huge concern for the wild pandas up in the mountains with winter coming in since a large amount of their bamboo was stripped out from the earthquake landslides. They also reported that some of the wild pandas that have survived the quake have been moving around to find some boo to eat, but they still don’t know the number of wild pandas out there after the quake. They are still trying to get that info. No more news about any more wild pandas showing up in villages; been about a month or so since we got any news about that. Hoping that these pandas are in good shape and able to find boo somewhere in those mountains!
Gonna go for now. Still have some Christmas shopping to do and some football games to watch! Will check back in later on!
Merry Christmas to the pandas,
Chari Mercier
St. Pete, FL
December 20th, 2008 at 11:38 am
Cheryl #89, thank you so much for your kind comments. I will indeed give my husband a hug.
Kris #90, I was indeed extremely lucky to go to the Panda and Polar Bear Breakfast with my daughter. I know that a lot of you who live closer than 6,000 miles would love to go and I know you all will one day. I left a big piece of my heart in San Diego and really miss being there. Yesterday my daughter and I were in a shopping centre and went into one of the new stores that has just opened, I believe it is an American store called Hollister? We discovered they had body sprays called ‘Mission Beach’ (we stayed in Mission Bay) and ‘Balboa’ and tried them both. We then spent ages reminiscing about our trip and got really sad we weren’t there.
I feel very proud to be part of such a wonderful family of animal lovers. It’s great to be able to come here and just ‘talk’ pandas etc without people looking at you as if you are mad! Some people just don’t understand what it is to love animals.
I’m sure that since yesterday more cash has been raised for the cooler. It is so amazing what can be done in a crisis.
If it hadn’t been for my husband telling me about this site (he also has a computer cd from many years ago about the Zoo) I probably wouldn’t have found it. So he has a lot to answer for!
December 20th, 2008 at 10:57 pm
HEY Pamela G — hope all is well with you – just a reminder that it’s time for another ” Panda Claws” poem.
December 21st, 2008 at 1:27 pm
THANKS SO MUCH SAN DIEGO ZOO!You helped me figure out the panda cam switch.I was about to call Su Lin Gao Gao when I looked,and saw it was Su Lin! Whew!
December 21st, 2008 at 4:44 pm
To P Wong..Have you any idea how Mr.Gao Gao feels about the ‘boo cooler needing to be replaced? Has Mr. Tourist asked him?
December 21st, 2008 at 5:05 pm
This is my first post here although I have been reading for ages and am an avid Panda-cam watcher and follower of all things panda. Here is a response I received from Zoo Atlanta to my email about the closure of the panda-cam:
‘Hello, Monika. Thank you for your message and interest in Panda Cam. Actually, our employees are working hard to secure sponsorship for Panda Cam. We have a Director of Marketing and a Sponsorship/Group Sales Manager who are both researching options and talking with those willing to consider the continuation of Zoo Atlanta Panda Cam. As you know, this economy is not an advantage in this situation. There are so many companies that are downsizing and cutting out sponsorships, that the quest for a new sponsor is going to be a difficult one. Donations are an option, but if we told the viewers how much it actually cost to keep a live, 24/7 feed going, it’s pretty much astronomical and this is the holidays. We appreciate your concern and we hope to have a solution as soon as possible. This is no fun for us either, but maybe some gracious donor of the Zoo will come forth and possibly offer a conclusion to this! Thanks and Happy Holidays!’
December 21st, 2008 at 9:08 pm
Hi, guys! Just got on the SDZ site late tonite, got on the panda page, and I noticed something on the cam list. Thanks for letting us know ahead of time where Gao Gao and Su Lin are going to on the cam list! Appreciate it! Now, we’ll have a better idea of where the pandas are at every time you all switch them around. That’ll be a big help for all of us pandafans that get on the cam to see what one of the pandas are doing, and we know who’s who and where they’re at!
Well, gonna go for now. Will check back in later on and look in on the pandacam.
Bye,
Chari Mercier
St. Pete, FL
December 22nd, 2008 at 11:05 am
Monika (#105) – Welcome to the panda blog forum and thank you for the update on the AZ panda cam. Seems as if you are the only one to receive a response from them. It is great to know that they are actively working to save the cam. I truly wish them success!!
December 22nd, 2008 at 11:32 am
Any news on the updated ‘boo cooler total?
Moderator’s note: As of noon today, the amount received for the bamboo refrigerator has reached $92,893. We thank all of you for helping us get this far!!
December 22nd, 2008 at 12:04 pm
Cheri #100, I think the giraffe from NZP went to live at Lowry Park zoo last year. How is Randall doing? We miss him when we visit NZP. He is such a gregarious guy, loves attention from his keepers and was a photo ham.
Glad to see that all the bears are enjoying their new green carpet, and that Bai and ZZ love their new digs.
December 22nd, 2008 at 12:12 pm
Monika, #105, thank you for your posting. I was really upset when my email to them was deleted without being read. Maybe there’s some hope still. Post anytime! And welcome.
P. Wong, thank you. I’ve tried to change that tune for Gao by donating. We want our pandas to all sing a happy tune.
December 22nd, 2008 at 2:30 pm
Thanks P Wong….I thought Mr. Gao Gao would have something to say about this cooler situation. He does love his different kinds of bamboo! I was hoping us pandaholics would have all the money donated by this time. I think we can…I think we can….
December 22nd, 2008 at 3:24 pm
Video alerts…………sort you tube by dated added for Xi Lan — couple of new ones. Xi Lan and Lun Lun – Merry 1st Xmas Little Prince is great. lcnessie does a great job. Here’s hoping we don’t loose that cam! He’s so important to not only us but for the future of our beloved pandas.
December 22nd, 2008 at 3:33 pm
#96 Melissa,
Tai Shan and Mei Lan are cousins! Their mothers, Mei Xiang and Lun Lun, share a father.
Zhen was too precious in the rain today. She seemed totally unfazed, as usual, for our intrepid little cub!
December 22nd, 2008 at 5:26 pm
Wo hoo! Guess who took his first 4-5 steps on Saturday! Xi Lan!!! and they were in the den so he is ready to go. I saw him late Thursday and he looked like he was very close to walking.
Soon he will be off exploring just like precious ZZ. And, we might even get to see it LIVE! Thanks to everyone who is trying to help ZA keep the web cam up at least during the week. If we can see him for at least a couple of months longer (Jan-Feb) we will get to see him walk, and even make his “real” debut in the day rooms. Sounds like Bai Yun wanted her excursions with ZZ done in private so she took her out in the moonlight. Lun Lun has to do hers with prying eyes watching her every move.
December 22nd, 2008 at 7:58 pm
#113 Stacy…Thank you for the info about Mei Xiang and Lun Lun being half-sisters. I knew that Tian and Bai are half-siblings but didn’t know about MX and LL being related. I just looked at the ZA panda family tree and the NZ panda family tree for more info. Their papa panda must have been quite handsome since he had two such beautiful offspring.
So China will just have to send three pandas over eventually, one each for Su Lin, Mei Lan and Tai, so that they can all stay here with us. LOL Just more wishful thinking on my part…I know that will not be happening but it’s a nice thought. It is so sad to see the American-born pandas depart but it is great to know that Bai and Gao will be staying on here for another five years. Hopefully Mei Xiang and Tian Tian will have their visits extended in the coming year, as well. All of the pandas that we share with China are wonderful ambassadors for wildlife conservation and education and are obviously dear to the hearts of a lot of us here in the U.S.
December 22nd, 2008 at 8:02 pm
#96 Seems like too many of our US pandas are from Chengdu & are related but liked your idea of bringing other pandas over from China to mate with our (soon to be 4 year old ) cubs. This could alleviate their cub overcrowding & keep our beloved cubs here longer. We keep hoping for ways to keep our pandas here, don’t we????
I understand from the ZA update that XiLan actually took 4-5 steps & is now playing with Mommy Lun. Let’s hope they are able to find a sponsor to keep their panda cam going – so we can compare how LunLun raises her son VS Lani. Already, what a difference – she had Xi in the day room much sooner & dragged him up on the climbing structure several times —poor Lani was dragged down if she was a foot off the ground. 2nd time Moms are better.
December 22nd, 2008 at 9:55 pm
I’m hoping all you pandaholics have a very Merry Christams and a Happy Hanuakkah. I saw Miss ZZ naping in her tree today. And at the NZ Mei and Tian were setting side by side eating their boo it was so cute. At the AZ little Xi was also napping looks like it was a quite day all around or did I miss something?
Oh yes at our Zoo in Columbus Ohio we celebrated Colo the old gorilla born in captivity birthday she was 52 today with a party. Isn’t great how all the zoo do so much to help all of God’s great creatures.
I hope the Boo cooler fund is coming along well and you will be able get your new one real soon.
December 22nd, 2008 at 11:20 pm
Hi! Margaret (#109), Randall the giraffe is doing well at Lowry Park Zoo, Tampa, FL. He’s with a couple of other giraffes there, so he’s finally got some buddies to be with instead of being by himself. As you know, NZ had to send him to the Tampa zoo a couple of years ago because the giraffe house and yard were in the construction plans for NZ’s new Elephant Trails project.
Xi Lan at AZ has started to gain enough strength to do the walking thing! Before long, Lun will have this little guy following her around everywhere she goes. Also, Lun’s cuddling the cub days are numbered. This cub will be a little too big for her to cuddle in a few more weeks. The other thing that the keepers at AZ mentioned was that Xi Lan had his first poop on his own a few days ago. Which means his bowels and bladder are starting to be under more of the cub’s control as he grows up.
Checked in on the NZ cams this morning, and Mei Xiang was shaking this big blue ball to get some tasty treats out of it; Tai Shan was napping.
Memphis Zoo’s pandacam is on 24/7. It’s a hit or miss to catch Ya Ya or Le Le at nite on the cam, but during the day, they have people running the cam from 9am-5pm everyday. Just hope that MZ doesn’t lose their pandacam.
Stacy (#113), the info about Tai Shan and Mei Lan being cousins is news for me! Had no idea of that until you mentioned that their moms had the same dad. That’s a very interesting piece of info about the family tree of pandas!
Monika (#105), welcome to our crazy blogging page! Hope you enjoy reading our comments on the pandas (and other animals every once in a while). And, thanks for sharing the email from AZ about what they are trying to do to save their pandacam. Appreciate it alot!
P Wong, another great conversation! Looks like Gao is anxious to have that new boo cooler come in ASAP!
Praying that you all can raise the money for that new boo cooler. It’ll be great to get it in by Christmas Day! Lovely Christmas gift for the pandas!
Well, that’s all for now! Will check back later.
Chari Mercier
St. Pete, FL
MERRY CHRISTMAS!!
December 23rd, 2008 at 8:50 am
AS I got ready for work this morning 6:30 est I heard a strange but familiar sound, as I rushed out to see the T.V. I saw 2 pandas being load onto a plane for their trip to Taiwan. They are a goodwill jesture fron China to the people of Taiwan, Just in time for the holidays and the new year. What beautiful animals and one is the son of our beloved Hua Mei. To all of my fellow bloggers and their families I wish you all a Happy Holiday and a wonderful New Year. Too all the keepers and staff a special thank you for all that you do to take care of these magnificent animals Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, Peace, love and Joy to all.
December 23rd, 2008 at 9:37 am
Okay, I’ve made my contribution to the bamboo cooler. It is a Christmas present given with pure love, for all the pleasure the magnificent pandas, their research centers, keepers, and this community gives to me. Merry Christmas everyone!
Moderator’s note: Thank you for this special Christmas gift to our pandas, Barbara!
December 23rd, 2008 at 10:40 am
I started watching Su Lin early this morning – 6:41 AM PT. She was busy climbing up the spindly tree that is to the right of the hollowed-out tree. She was looking all around and sniffing the air. I am guessing there are some captivating odors in the air that are of interest to her! I checked back a few times and noticed that she was still climbing trees. I don’t think she missed one her favorite trees in the exhibit. Su Lin always holds my attention because she manages to keep me in suspense when she starts getting antsy. The wonderful panda keepers have arrived to clean her exhibit. Perhaps that is exactly what Su Lin was waiting for.
Now that I got my early morning panda viewing in, it’s time to start my day. Watching the pandas first thing in the morning always makes me happy. The San Diego Zoo Panda Cam is the Best!
Merry Christmas and Best Wishes to the Panda Staff and Panda Bloggers and all who are involved in the care and enjoyment of these wonderful bears.
December 23rd, 2008 at 1:26 pm
Merry Christmas to everyone – all the lovely people on the blogs, the moderators, meerkats, all the staff and keepers and, of course, the stars themselves – THE PANDAS. And not forgetting all the other animals at the SDZ. Have a lovely time.
December 23rd, 2008 at 2:02 pm
P. Wong, I thought the last reindeer was Blixen. Who are Lun Lun and Xi Lan?I know about Tai Shan from a book,But who are these pandas?
December 23rd, 2008 at 3:01 pm
I have been told to take tomorrow off work as we have 16 inches of snow on the ground now and more on the way. This is very unusual for Vancouver. I know we are about $15,000.00 short for the bamboo cooler but is there any way that the delivery charges and/or installation charges could be donated and the cooler could be ordered now? I’m sure the money will come in in the next couple of weeks. If I get any money for Christmas I plan to donate again.
Anyways, Merry Christmas to all the bloggers and I’ll be back on the cam/blog next Monday.
December 23rd, 2008 at 11:08 pm
Princess Zhen Zhen #123–Lun Lun is the mother of the cub Xi Lan. They are at ZA (Zoo Atlanta).
Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Happy Holidays, to the pandas, panda watchers, panda lovers, keepers, bloggers, one and all! Please, Santa, bring the cooler–we’ve all been very good this year, and Zhen Zhen will do her cha cha to a happy tune just for you.
December 23rd, 2008 at 11:53 pm
Hi, you all! Princess Zhen Zhen, Lun Lun is a female panda currently residing at the Atlanta Zoo in Atlanta, Georgia. A male panda named Yang Yang also lives there. Lun Lun is the mother of 2 cubs–Mei Lan who was born in 2006, Xi Lan who was born on Aug. 30, 2008. Mei Lan is now on her own at AZ and she is 2 years old. Xi Lan just recently got his new name on Dec. 8, 2008, and he will be 4 months old on Dec. 30, 2008. One girl and one boy for momma Lun! Tai Shan is the son of female panda Mei Xiang and male panda Tian Tian at the National Zoo in Washington, DC. He was born in 2005 and is 3 years old. He’s been weaned and seperated from his mom since 2007. Tai is Mei Xiang’s only panda cub so far. Memphis Zoo in Memphis, Tennessee, has 2 pandas, also–female panda Ya Ya and male panda Le Le. MZ panda keepers have had a baffling year with Ya Ya because she did not show any signs of going into heat at all this whole year! They are hoping that she will go into estrus (heat) this next spring in 2009 so that they can see if Ya and Le can get it together! They are the only pandas that has not had a cub yet here in the US. Hope that helps you out on the pandas that live here in the US.
Lee in Vancouver, you are going to have a very nice white Christmas in Vancouver this year!! It is unusual for Vancouver to get a whole lot of snow because the city is so close to the Pacific Ocean and Vancouver Bay. Enjoy it while you have it, tho! Hope you get this kind of snow when the 2010 Winter Olympics come around! Have a great white Christmas with your family and friends!
I’m also hoping that the boo cooler gets to SDZ by Christmas! If not, there’s always a New Year’s present on New Year’s Day! That $15,000 should get raised pretty quick despite everyone being somewhat pinched in this new economy we’re in now.
HAPPY HANNUKKAH, MERRY CHRISTMAS, HAPPY KWANZAA, AND HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!! All in one week!!
Hope everybody at SDZ and all the people who write in their comments everyday have a great Christmas holiday with your families! Especially to all of you that will be having a white Christmas up north!!
ENJOY!!!!!!!!!!
Chari Mercier
St. Pete, FL……….
Where we don’t have any snow at all, and it will be a warm 80 degrees down here!! No cold Christmas here in Florida this year!!
December 24th, 2008 at 7:21 am
#123 Lun Lun is the adult female panda at Zoo Atlanta. Xi Lan is her almost 4 month old male panda cub. If you go to Zoo Atlanta’s website, they have a panda cam, too.
Little Zhen Zhen gets more precious every day. Such a blessing. I wonder if Bai Yun is anticipating weaning our little princess. She seems less and less *available* to Zhen’s requests for nursing. They grow up so fast!
December 24th, 2008 at 8:48 am
Merry Christmas to all the staff, keepers and volunteers at SDZ, you all do a wonderful job, its not like any other job, its 24/7 so from myself and my 3 young children i would like to say thank you
My children all asked if i could make a small donation from each of them out of their pocket money, they adore the pandas and love to be able to help, even if it isnt a million $$s
Hope the New year brings in the bamboo cooler and lots more fans across the world who enjoy these magical creatures
Moderator’s note: A big thank you to you and your children, Dawn!
December 24th, 2008 at 9:35 am
The comments on the new post do not seem to be working.
Any update on the ‘boo cooler fundraising? The wishlist page does not appear to have been updated recently, so I am hoping for some good news!
Thanks to all at SDZ for everything you do for all the animals (and animal lovers).
Merry Christmas to everyone!!!
December 24th, 2008 at 10:02 am
Princess ZZ (#123), I could be wrong but I think P. Wong was having a bit of fun with the reindeer names. Miss Su is enjoying a HUGE piece of boo right now. Happy holidays to all the panda fans, keepers and of course, our precious Pandas and Polars!! And all the other animals too. May Santa bring them all some exciting enrichment and a little help with the panda cooler as well.
December 24th, 2008 at 10:43 am
Hi all I love reading all the new blogs everyday it get me started. I was watching the pandas at the NZ this late morning and on camera 1 someone was enjoying a huge Christmas eve day donut shaped fruit ice it was so cute. They it all over them on their mouth, nose and belly just like a kid.
The little Prince Xi was napping and I’m sure dreaming of suger plums dancing in his head. And Princess ZZ sleeping in her trees hoping Santa knows she then a good girl this year.
Well Happy Holidays to all the Zoo staff and animals also to all the bloggers who we enjoy their news and comments everyday. May you have a safe and happy time with family and friends.
I’m making another Christmas eve donation to the boo cooler fund as a gift to the beautiful pandas long may live.
And love to everyone out there
Moderator’s note: Thank you for your donation, Pam!
December 24th, 2008 at 12:11 pm
I should look! Thanks so much for the information!Merry Christmas Eve!
December 24th, 2008 at 2:22 pm
Princess ZZ (#123) – Hi! You asked about the reindeer names. Well, some versions of the 1822 or 1823 poem spells Blitzen and some Blixem. I used Blixem because I referred to 1823 version on Wikipedia. Apparently there are over 20 versions of the poem and the reindeer names vary depending on the version.
December 25th, 2008 at 2:12 pm
wow,P. Wong! Never knew that!