Pandas: Are Two better than One?
Posted at 8:37 am July 29, 2009 by Suzanne Hall
We have been excited to discover that Bai Yun is pregnant with twins! Our veterinarians confirmed via ultrasound that there is a fetus in each of her uterine horns (the panda has a bifurcated uterus, shaped like a Y). When they were first discovered, vets could see that one fetus was well developed, with a robust heartbeat, and the other was smaller with a well-developed placenta but no heartbeat yet detected. A subsequent ultrasound revealed a fetal heartbeat on both sides. This morning, only the more developed cub could be seen. Does this mean that the other embryo is lost? Or was it just hidden from view? We can’t say for sure either way.
Dr. Meg Sutherland-Smith performing the ultrasound procedure this morning.
Why would a female prune her litter? We know that raising one panda cub is an extremely difficult and labor-intensive task for a female. She invests a lot of energy in holding, suckling, cleaning, and protecting her young. We know from our comparative studies with other bear species that pandas are far more attentive mothers than American black bears or brown bears, and even the active sun bear isn’t quite as diligent as a panda. As demanding as raising a panda cub is, rearing twins is even more of a feat, so much so that it has been very rarely documented that a female might rear more than one cub in a natural setting. To save energy, it may be a good evolutionary strategy for a female panda to avoid putting herself in this position in the first place, and so she might have natural biological mechanisms in place that ensure a singleton birth.
Even in the event of a twin birth, panda mothers routinely make choices about how to rear their litter. In birth centers in China, females sometimes reject one of their cubs immediately upon their birth, deciding from the get-go that she will only raise one of the offspring. Others may choose to attempt to rear two for a few hours, but ultimately set one cub down to attend to the other. We don’t yet know what factors go into making the choice between cubs, but we are actively looking at this as a research project and hope to have the answers soon.
In the final analysis, a panda mother seems incapable of rearing twins on her own. There have been a few spotty reports of wild twins located in tree nests or wandering about in China. This suggests there might be a possibility of a panda caring for two cubs from birth. Certainly this is possible with most other bear species. However, to my knowledge there has been no confirmed case of a panda that gave birth to and successfully reared twins without support.
What would Bai Yun do if she did give birth to two? We don’t know. She’s never been put in that position before, and we aren’t sure how she might react. Bai Yun is an excellent, skilled, experienced mother; perhaps if she feels she’s up to the job of handling twins, she would try to raise both. She is also well-seasoned and knows just what’s involved in caring for the cubs, and splitting her efforts between two means neither one gets her full attention. For that reason she may reject the demands of rearing two in order to ensure the survival of one of her offspring. We’ll have to wait and see.
In a future update I will describe some of the conditions and considerations our staff will contend with in dealing with a twin birth. Stay tuned!
Suzanne Hall is a senior research technician for the San Diego Zoo’s Institute for Conservation Research.
Here’s a link to video of this morning’s ultrasound
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July 29th, 2009 at 8:51 am
Exciting news!
July 29th, 2009 at 8:52 am
Yippee! Two would be nice, but one is very nice as well. Yippee!
July 29th, 2009 at 8:55 am
Wow!! This is so exciting!! I’ll keep my fingers crossed that everything goes well.
July 29th, 2009 at 8:58 am
Woo Hoo!! I’m sticking with Aug 1st. Changing to a boy AND a girl!
I’m so excited!!
July 29th, 2009 at 9:01 am
Woooooooooo Hoooooooooooo I am so happy to hear that we have a baby panda or two to look forward to and I am sure if any Panda Momma could raise two successfully it would be our Bai but I am sure she will handle it in the best way possible either way. I thank you for the great news and look forward to hearing more. Way to go Gao and Bai. The big guy always produces. Thanks again for the wonderful news and I see Bai sitting in her little nest eating her bamboo and looks very proud of herself.
July 29th, 2009 at 9:04 am
Congratulations Bai Yun and also to all the wonderful staff that take care of her and all the other animals. I can not even begin to tell you what joy your cams bring me, especially at time like this.
July 29th, 2009 at 9:05 am
Thanks so much Susanne for the great news we’ll all be on baby watch from now on. It would be wonderful if Bai did had twins but if it’s not meant to be that’s ok just as long as she has one healthy cub she is a great mom.
July 29th, 2009 at 9:09 am
Wonderful news!
July 29th, 2009 at 9:10 am
Yeah Yeah Yeah! I can’t wait for them to be born! I went to the zoo in April, and was dissapointed when neither Su Lin or ZZ were on display. But i can at least see the baby pandas on the panda cam! Lets hope that both pandas are born! But as long as one is born, it will be great! The panda population will increase! Bai Yun rocks!
July 29th, 2009 at 9:10 am
so awesome i watched for hours with mei xang this spring ,and was so disapointed. i will be watching constantly with bai. how wonderful if she has twins, but one healthy cub will be awesome . keeping all digits crossed for bai great news
July 29th, 2009 at 9:11 am
WOO HOOOO!! Gao Gao, You da man!! Can we assume that we are on 24/7 birth watch now?? I’m changing my date to August 2nd.
Ms.Bai, I know you will do us proud….you always have, and staff, you too. My prayers will be with all of you as well as the stars of the show!
July 29th, 2009 at 9:18 am
Congratulations to everyone involved. We are all awaiting the births.
July 29th, 2009 at 9:21 am
Wonderful news!! Cograts to Bai and to her dedicated keepers and to all the staff that care for her… I think it would be amazing if she had twins, and both were raised “of course with the help of the staff”….
Yep, our stud muffin Gao performed successfully again… What ever happens, whether we have one or two cubs to raise, she will as always be a Super Mom to me
Just may have to plan a trip down to San Diego in the near future… Hey Lee, you up for it??? ha ha ha
July 29th, 2009 at 9:22 am
Were twins also expected in 2005 when Su Lin was born? I didn’t know that Bai was a twin but did know that her little brother Tian was one of an expected set of twins. It is fun and interesting to learn extra panda factoids like that.
It seems that a birth comes pretty quickly (within a few days) after an ultrasound confirmation, or at least it has seemed to at SDZ and ZA. Those of us that have picked August 1 over the past 7-10 days (I think there are 3 or 4 of us) are keeping fingers crossed, at least I am! Maybe Bai will have one cub on July 31 and one on August 1.
I hope for Bai to have a healthy cub, or two if she decides physiologically that everything is in order for two healthy Bai-Gao cubs. It will be exciting to watch a twin protocol unfold in the event that two cubs are born! I still can’t believe that we are privy to breaking scientific events! It makes me a little goose bumpy. Thanks for sharing with us. It’s nice to say hi to Bai’s cub before he or she is even born but I can’t quite make out whether the cub resembles Bai or Gao.
(Silly me!)
July 29th, 2009 at 9:23 am
OH MY GOSH!!!!!!! I’m excited, and worried, and hopeful, and worried, and teary-eyed, and worried, and…..oh well, you who know me here know I am (to use an old expression (cause I am old) a worrywart!! But, I know whatever happens, Mama Extroidinaire’s babies are in the hands of loving professionals who will care and support whatever happens. Lots and lots of love and good luck to Mama Bai Yun.
July 29th, 2009 at 9:23 am
Bai Yun is a great, attentive, caring, loving Panda mom. If two cubs were born to her, I could definately see her at least attempting to raise both. She’s too good a mom to not at least make an effort.
She has better success then some, and I cant wait for the little cub(s) to make an appearance. =)
Of course we also have the great keepers at the SDZ to thank as well !
July 29th, 2009 at 9:25 am
OH MY GOD! That is the best news yet! Bai Yun and twins! I am praying for a safe and healthy delivery for her babies and for Bai Yun. I’m so happy for SDZ. I’ll be dancing in my street when they arrive healthy. PLEASE KEEP US POSTED! THANK YOU SUZANNE, AS ALWAYS, FOR THE WONDERFUL UPDATES YOU PROVIDE. I’ve been dreaming of twins chasing Bai Yun around her yard of years. She’s a super wonderful mommy panda and she deserves it!
July 29th, 2009 at 9:26 am
Yay!! And congrats! Great news! I am with Pam (#7) twins would be wonderful but one is just fine too. Much love to my favorite panda couple – Bai and Gao!
July 29th, 2009 at 9:30 am
What exciting news! Bai Yun looked so beautiful and serene this morning eating bamboo in her birthing den which is becoming increasingly plush.
July 29th, 2009 at 9:33 am
This is such wonderful news. Congratulations Bai and Gao and to the SDZ panda staff!
July 29th, 2009 at 9:36 am
Congratulations! Exciting news to just confirm that Bai is pregnant! More so that she is pregnant with twins!
How has Hua Mei handled the three sets of twins she’s had in China? Did she help raise both cubbies or did she reject one cubbie over another? Did both cubbies survive from each of the twin sets.
Thanks!
July 29th, 2009 at 9:36 am
WOOHOO! I am already making plans to come in October or November, hoping to be at the 100 day mark… maybe there’ll be TWINS to name! yay!
July 29th, 2009 at 9:39 am
Congratulations to all, especially Madame Bai, As long as Bai is okay and what ever her body dictates and there is a healthy cub so be it. It would be great if there were 2 maybe a boy and girl. I’m sure being the mother she is Bai would manage the both cubs.I know that with all the staff the care that they give everything will go great.
July 29th, 2009 at 9:42 am
Thank You Suzanne for this breath-taking update!!!!! Also thank you for the ultrasound photo!!!! Thank you all for the fantastic care you give all the animals at the SDZ! To All: Don’t you feel like jumping up and down and dancing around?
To Bai and Gao: Bless You!!!!
Moderator’s note: YES WE DO!
July 29th, 2009 at 9:44 am
Couldn’t forget to say congratulations to Big Daddy you old devil you.
P. Wong this deserves a special conversation with Gao Gao. I know you have it in you
July 29th, 2009 at 9:46 am
W00T! Somehow I just knew that Lady Bai would come through again! I didn’t know Bai was a twin. However, as Hua Mei has been so successful in delivering twins, perhaps we really can hope. It would be an extremely labor-intensive job for both Bai and the Zoo though.
Well, I’ll be more than delighted with one. If all goes well, this will be the first panda I will be able to follow from birth. I didn’t even discover ZZ until I visited the Zoo nearly a year ago.
Does the Zoo have any speculation on a possible delivery date?
And that Gao Gao! Is he somethin’ or what!
July 29th, 2009 at 9:48 am
…I still be dancing in my street even if she has a single cub! I can’t wait for the baby(ies) to get here.
July 29th, 2009 at 9:48 am
Whoopie Bai Gao oh —– GRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRREAT news.
Thanks for sharing the news. Just hoping that we have a successful outcome and at least one healthy cub. Suzanne, you and your fellow panda folks rock.
July 29th, 2009 at 9:50 am
I echo Connie’s (#5) response! This is wonderful news!! Suzanne, thanks so much for all your wonderful updates! I enjoy reading the blogs! I recently bought an iPhone and it’s so much fun to go to the SDZ website and watch the pandas whenever I want! Every time a baby is in the works from any panda in the world, I have friends who know I love pandas, and I get lots of email notifications to check on the various pandas. I’m so happy for Bai. I was around when she had Hua Mei and what a joy that was! Keep those blogs comin’, all of us appreciate those of you who work with these wonderful animals; the keepers, vets, the camera operators, and narrators and those behind the scenes who we don’t always know about. Hooray for the San Diego Zoo!
July 29th, 2009 at 9:53 am
I would like to give my thanks to Suzanne and the team for not only posting updates as regularly as possible but for also being so open and informative with us all, the information you have shared is priceless, I would love to see Bai with twins but if its not meant to be then at least we know she is carrying a healthy cub in there, Good Luck to Bai and to all the staff who are taking extra special care of her, i cannot wait to raise my glass to you all and say Congratulations
8th August would be nice, its my daughters birthday LOL
July 29th, 2009 at 10:05 am
Brenda#21 all of Hua Mei’s Twins did survive,
July 29th, 2009 at 10:17 am
OMG!!! Bai might have twins! What a wonderful miracle! Hopefully if she does have both that she will be experienced enough to want/be able to take care of both. If not…..Keepers….?
Congratulations to Bai and all the staff! Waiting with baited breath.
July 29th, 2009 at 10:17 am
Congrats to Mama Bai and Papa Gao and all the SDZ staff. This is such exciting news. Watching Zhen from birth and the XMan at ZA has been so much fun so having another cubbie or two is the best news.
Thank you Suzanne for keeping us informed and will be on pregnancy watch with all of you.
July 29th, 2009 at 10:20 am
Suzanne ~
thanks for the great news that ‘wonderwoman’ Bai is pregnant again – she always has been very discreet, she decides when to let us share her secret(s).
I am praying all goes well for Bai and she has two healthy cubs, she had Sheng last time she was pregnant with twins, this could be a good omen that she may have another male cub…..wow!
I feel certain other ‘bloggers’ are aware that some animals have the ability for various reasons, to reabsorb their young prior to birth (female cats for instance). Hopefully Bai will have healthy twins, however just one healthy cub would be so amazing and exciting for those that have not seen it previously.
In an earlier blog ‘a person’(name?) was puzzled why Bai has various dens to chose from? – she will decide which one she will use and duly move most of the bamboo aside just prior to giving birth – at least she has done so with her previous births!
I am back on Bai watch as always, I think she will chose a date in early August.
* P.Wong …. hope you are considering the ‘wording’ for the announcement on the big day….
July 29th, 2009 at 10:26 am
This is just too exciting for words. Me thinks this coming weekend is going to be the time!!! Make sure you have the camera’s ready because we will want to see both births if they happen. All of you keepers managed to keep the news of possible twins to yourself until you verified? You sly devils!!! How did you keep the grins off your faces?
July 29th, 2009 at 10:26 am
Thanks Suzanne, what great news. We will all be praying all goes well for Momma Bai, and her little ones, she is a great Mommy. I was just watching her a little while ago, fast alseep. Get your rest Bai, you are going to need it.
Thanks to you and all the keepers, you are a special group.
July 29th, 2009 at 10:31 am
OMG!!!! I was at work when I read the news and could barely contain myself! I am so FREAKING EXCITED! Twins would be amazing, but just the fact that Bai is pregnant again for sure is SO AWESOME!!
What a totally, TOTALLY amazing couple Bai and Gao are. They are without peer. They are IRREPLACEABLE and INVALUABLE and PURE PANDA PERFECTION PERSONIFIED. Gao Gao is da man for sure for sure!!
Since this may be their last baby, I think its name should reflect Bai and Gao. How about Gao Yun or Yun Gao?
You panda keepers are SOOOOOOOOOOO lucky!!!! Best wishes to you and to Bai!!!
July 29th, 2009 at 10:32 am
wow! what wonderful news to hear and the picture scan too! one or two, either, or. just so bai and baby or babies are healthy and okay! what fun and excitment is in store for everyone shortly!!! baby watch is on for bai AND, baby watch will also be on soon for a new grand baby on our end. baby to be born in virginia. ( too far away! ) stay tuned everyone for new baby or babies of fluff and fun!!!!!
July 29th, 2009 at 10:36 am
Thanks for the update. I am just hoping for a healthy cub. (preferably a boy) but twins would be twice as nice!! I’ll keep my thoughts on Bai and the impending birth.
Thanks to all of the staff for taking good care of these precious animals.
July 29th, 2009 at 10:39 am
This is just the news I needed to cheer up my day. My dad returned last Wed from a trip to Arkansas and has not been in good health since (Parkinson’s with dementia). I am so happy I am crying as I type this. We visited SDZ in early March and I have some great pics of both Gao and Bai. I will still hope for August 9th, because it is my dad’s birthday and it may be his last (I hate to say).
YIPEE!!! Go Bai and congrats to Gao, I knew he could do it.
Thank you to all the wonderful staff at SDZ who do such a great job not just caring for their babies (all the pandas) but also keeping us all up to date on every detail of their lives. You guys ROCK!!!!!!!!!
July 29th, 2009 at 10:45 am
Whoo Hoo! Pandas are my absolute favorite animals. I can’t believe it!
July 29th, 2009 at 10:48 am
I am still praying and believing for 2 healthy male panda cubs to be born on 8/3! It would be so awesome! Yay for momma Bai Yun again!!!! Gao Gao needs more sons so there’ll be more studmuffins! LOL!
July 29th, 2009 at 10:49 am
OMG! I so called it in the last blog….twins! Now, Bai has to fufill the one of each and give birth on the 12th to make me a fortune teller! haha.
Congratz to Momma, Daddy, sisters, and all of the panda staff!
July 29th, 2009 at 10:51 am
WOW!!! What fantastic news. I so hope she has twins – if not, then that’s fine too. Well done Gao Gao and Bai Yun and good luck. Still sticking with 5 August and, ummmm, two boys. That’s made my day, even if it is almost 7pm here!
July 29th, 2009 at 10:57 am
Wow!! What a message. Thanks for all . Good Luck , Bai Yun !!!! A great day for all the pandafans.
July 29th, 2009 at 10:59 am
*Doing my panda dance right now*! This is very exciting news…TWINS……….way to go Gao Gao!
This is just the news I needed to hear right now. Looking forward to this so much.
July 29th, 2009 at 11:07 am
OH MY GOSH !!!!!!!!!!!!!
CONGRADULATIONS BAI YUN GAO GAO,AND SANDIEGO ZOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! YIPPEE 
i CANT WAIT TILL AUGUST 26 AND I WILL BE IN SANDIEGO YIPPEE
July 29th, 2009 at 11:10 am
Words just can’t express … I think everyone else has said it already. Congratulations SDZ, Bai and Gao…I think we need to rename him to Go-Go-Gao! Here is hoping for a successful birth for everyone involved, whether it be one or two…he/she or they will be loved and cared for !
July 29th, 2009 at 11:11 am
Congratulations to everyone at SDZ , but most especially to Bai Yun and Gao Gao, the proud parents!
July 29th, 2009 at 11:25 am
Wow, THIS IS GREAT NEWS! Any idea of a delivery date?
July 29th, 2009 at 11:26 am
I am jumping up and down. But I have tears in my eyes and goose bumps!
July 29th, 2009 at 11:42 am
yeaaaaa – thank you for sharing your panda cub news. We love you Bai and will be watching and rooting for you.
July 29th, 2009 at 11:45 am
I am so excited!!!!!!!! I just about burst when I read there may be twins coming!!!! I would love to see that happen!! Bai Yun is such a good mommy–she can do it!!!!!!
July 29th, 2009 at 11:45 am
As soon as I saw the title of the update — the tears started. Oh my gosh… I’m speechless…
July 29th, 2009 at 11:47 am
so excited, am having a hard time typing this.
may the “little princes” be strong and healthy.
with your combined help, you amazing humans, m. bai will make history.
still going with aug. two.
joan
painted post, n.y.
July 29th, 2009 at 11:47 am
I confess to being apprehensive about our Beautiful Queen Mother having twins at her age but I guess we can be confident that all of you will handle the situation whatever it may be. Hua Mei was my first panda baby so I am interested in the question that Brenda #21 asked regarding how Hua Mei handled and raised all of her twins. Perhaps someone has some knowledge about that.
July 29th, 2009 at 11:49 am
How very exciting!!! Congradulations to SDZ, Bai Yun, Gao Gao and the entire family including us pandaholics!! Wow oh wow!! This “aunt” is anxiously awaiting the news of the birth(S!). Gao Gao, you sly devil, you! Bai, you just had to have another to see if they will be a bit more behaved than Zhennie. ha ha… (not a chance).
July 29th, 2009 at 11:56 am
Very exciting news! My son and his friend will be attending zoo camp next week. I hope they will be able to help Su Lin and Zhen Zhen celebrate their birthdays. It sure would be fun if they could also celebrate the birth of a new cubbie or two!!
July 29th, 2009 at 11:59 am
Suzanne, I echo Bobbie Wood #24. This is a breath-taking announcement! I am so elated that you can confirm a fetus…but two? I secretly wanted two, but my concerns were exactly what you wrote about: the ability of one panda, especially of Bai’s age, to be able to nurse and care for two babies. Maybe her age is a plus in this situation, but I wouldn’t want one of them to be lost, for whatever reason. I think Mother Nature has fabulous tools for animal and humans in determining what is best for all concerned. (And Bai’s body will know too.)
To Bai Yun….you go, girl! We were all confident you would have a baby, and you, once again, have proven yourself. Is August 13 too far away? I think so. I think next week may be the best target!
Thank you, Suzanne, for thoroughly explaining all options here. We all want what is best for Bai Yun, the baby(ies), and for all you guys there. Best wishes to you all.
Now, I DEFINITELY have to plan a trip to San Diego for, say, Christmas?
July 29th, 2009 at 12:02 pm
In Suzanne’s July 31, 2007 post, she reported that “… Dr. Meg Sutherland-Smith was able to obtain stellar images, showing a fetus in advanced stages of development. The images showed some bone development in the spine and skull, well-formed limbs, and even tiny claws developing on the little paws. The fetal membranes floated freely in an arc above the fetus as it wiggled and squirmed during the ultrasound….” I don’t know how to read the ultrasound image but am wondering whether similar features could be seen. Gosh, I’m just TOOOO happy and excited and THANK YOU, Suzanne and everyone, and of course our lovely Gao and Bai, and family. I have tears in my eyes and don’t know what else to say. But I feel sad that Taishan still doesn’t have a sibling after Mei Xiang /NZ’s trying so hard for 3 years… Anyway, very happy to know there’ll be at least another little one to watch soon! By the way, any news about the female panda that mated with Mei Sheng?
July 29th, 2009 at 12:06 pm
After watching her for a while today, I’ve changed my mind….I think this weekend. How ’bout August 1st?
July 29th, 2009 at 12:11 pm
I am boiling water, searching for my rubber gloves, blue gown, and mask! Go BAI!!!!!!!!!!!!! I’m ready when you are!!
And many thanks to Suz!
July 29th, 2009 at 12:11 pm
Thank you for the wonderful news and excellent, informative post Suzanne. I’ll be thrilled whether it’s one or two, as long as everyone is healthy! Cheers to the mother and father to be and to the San Diego Zoo’s dedicated Panda staff!
July 29th, 2009 at 12:11 pm
Yay! I think we all “just knew” that Bai was pregnant again–what happy confirmation!
There was one panda mother (in Japan? China?) who successfully raised twins on her own. I think Hua Mei’s twins were swapped and rotated.
I didn’t know that Bai Yun was a twin–where is her twin now?
Jane #29–I also frequently check in on the pandas via my iPhone–isn’t it fantastic!!!
July 29th, 2009 at 12:12 pm
Wow!!!!! Thank you so much for the Amazing news, Bai is so great as a mother and a awesome source of information for the ongoing research of the pandas.
Thank you also for the interesting info about twin pregenanies. I started my passion for pandas by watching Su Lin right after her birth she is definately breath taking in person as is her Mom.
July 29th, 2009 at 12:12 pm
Really hoping its a male (or two!) this time as we have only ever had one male cub
July 29th, 2009 at 12:13 pm
What a wonderful blessing – twins. Let’s hope they both survive.
Now, lets hope for two polar bear cubs. I’ll be making the trip from Chicago for sure!
Thanks for this great news. It always makes my day to see these wonderful creatures and to read your blog.
July 29th, 2009 at 12:26 pm
Great news!
July 29th, 2009 at 12:27 pm
Francis #64,
The Japanese female had considerable help from staff in rearing her twins. And Bai Yun’s twin died shortly after birth.
July 29th, 2009 at 12:31 pm
Congratulations for Bai and Gao Gao. This is super terrific news. Twins would be wonderful, for us, but for Bai it would be very hard. All we want is a healthy baby and so far at least the one fetus looks really robust.
They did say development had just started and didn’t indicate any possible birth date. If we’re talking within days then wouldn’t it be great if she had the baby on Su Lin or ZZ’s birthday?
Yes, now we also are hoping we get polar bear cubs this year too.
Thanks to all the staff for their hard work and diligent care of all the animals. I believe that it is a sign of success that Bai feels comfortable enough to keep having these babies. She does it so well that it is easy to forget that it isn’t that easy.
July 29th, 2009 at 12:43 pm
It is 2:42 Central time and Mama looks very uncomfortable in her den. Is it time?
July 29th, 2009 at 12:55 pm
That’s wonderful! I got very excited when I clicked on and saw Bai Yun fluffing up her den.
If Bai Yun does give birth to both babies and seems to have some trouble taking care of both, will the staff help out the way they do at Wolong? And didn’t Hua Mei take care (or start taking care) of both of her twins from birth?
July 29th, 2009 at 12:57 pm
oh, my gawsh, everyone is going nuts here on the blog! thank you Suzanne, for the beautiful news. it is so fun to watch Missy B in her nest. what is she doing right now? wonder if she knows she’s with child…we are sure gonna get some really great shots, i just took some of her reaching up to the camera, her face looked so sweet, you can really see her eyes. Let’s have a baby shower! Thank you SDZ.
July 29th, 2009 at 1:04 pm
Question for the moderators:
If Bai has twins, will you rotate them or see how she does with two babies first?
Moderator’s note: Suzanne will be addressing that question in a future post.
July 29th, 2009 at 1:07 pm
Suzanne #69–thanks for the info.
July 29th, 2009 at 1:10 pm
Skip, skip, twirl, twirl, wave arms, stomp feet, etc. – that’s my oh-i’m-so happy-we’re-having-cub(s)-again dance!!! How absolutely delightful!! AARRGGHH!! I’m going to be away the first week in August with possible no access to technology – phooeeyy!! So, I’m depending on all of you, my fellow panda lovers, for great narratives of the blessed event!! Please, please, write about all the nitty-gritty details, okay??
But, now I have a great reason to vouch for a San Diego holiday in February/March 2010. By then, the precious, little one(s) should be on exhibit. Wow!!
Thanks to Suzanne for her most informative post. We learn so much from you and you are so generous with your knowledge despite being in the midst of what is probably the most intense time in Panda Canyon. I remember the crowd gathered around the monitors when ZZ was born, eyes glued to the screens, and then, the gasps and sighs of excitement and relief when that little bundle made her entrance. It was such a magical time!!
July 29th, 2009 at 1:12 pm
WOW! As someone who daily watches all 4 U.S. panda cams AND the Chengdu cams AND the Chiang Mai cam, all I can say is the more the merrier! But I’m really sorry I didn’t get the 27 inch monitor instead of the 22 inch when I upgraded my computer, LOL! Congratulations to Bai Yun & Gao Gao, & to SDZ staff! P Wong, has Zhennie told you how she feels about not being “the baby” anymore?
July 29th, 2009 at 1:18 pm
woohoo!!!!! still sticking with my 8/3 prediction
July 29th, 2009 at 1:38 pm
I am so excited. As I keep telling you all I am coming to SD Zoo in November. I can’t wait for there to be a new cubbie for us to love. Bai is in the den but I have to go to bed soon as it is nearly 10pm in the UK. Even my hubbie is excited.
July 29th, 2009 at 1:47 pm
Oh my gosh!!! The tears are flowing down my checks……I knew she was going to do it for us….Please, please, please…..Panda god….And human god let them both develope strong and healthy…..Oh you keepers how fun…….That a girl Bai!!!!!!!!!!!!..I hope that the date I predicted 8/15 is the one….give our babies more time to develope….A boy and a girl would be beyond precious………yea!!!!!!!!!! I am soooooooooo excited…
July 29th, 2009 at 1:56 pm
Question??????????? Is it possible to have separate births …perhaps days or even a week or two apart?????????????
July 29th, 2009 at 1:57 pm
Congratulations!
July 29th, 2009 at 2:03 pm
Great update today on the ZA website. Seems they made a little tree person as an enrichment item and put tabasco (one of Lun’s favorite scents) on it. The X Man got ahold of it and got the tabasco fragrance on himself. Lun annointed herself first with the tree person and then with Xi Lan!! I had to LOL when I imagined that scene. Please – if anyone finds footage of that on You Tube – please post here!
July 29th, 2009 at 2:03 pm
HALLELUJAH! Hey, Su, can you give us the projected delivery time? Last year I watched the birth of Xi Lan in real time! How do panda fetus get nutrition from the mother because I saw Lun Lun contracted and then the cub dropped to the floor. I did not see Lun cut off any cord (I could not figure out the word, senior moment, Ha…) from herself.
I also like Gao Gao’s new name: Go-Go Gao. Having good names matter. Bai Yun and Gao Gao fit like gloves. White Cloud (Bai Yun, in Chinese) is floating High (Gao Gao, in Chinese).
July 29th, 2009 at 2:15 pm
What great news thanks Suzanne for keeping us informed, things are starting to get very exciting i have just seen Bai in her den, she looks to be fast asleep, bless.and im going to bed as well, it is just after 10pm in the uk, thanks to all you panda keepers.
July 29th, 2009 at 2:33 pm
Tami #81,
The longest recorded span between twin births in our twinning study dataset is less than a day. However, there was recently a confirmed case of three weeks between births of siblings from the same litter in brown bears…so it’s not unheard of for bears to deliver their cubs far apart in time. Since pandas gestate their cubs for so short a window, however, it isn’t likely that our dataset will be altered any time soon.
July 29th, 2009 at 2:43 pm
Oh my goodness, this is so exciting! I’m bummed it took me this long to log in today! Thank you so much for keeping us updated. It is truly a wonderful day in San Diego.
July 29th, 2009 at 3:01 pm
Moderator
Any chance you know what animals the “Wish List” is going to include for August? Just a hint?
I’m really hoping for some Panda “wishes” – it seems like the perfect time after today’s announcement!
Moderator’s note: The August Wish List’s theme is “Scents and Smells of Summer” featuring different scent items we hope to offer our animals, including pandas. And don’t forget our Adopt an Animal program, where a panda is one of the featured adoptees. The link for both is http://www.sandiegozoo.org/donate/adoptions.html
July 29th, 2009 at 3:06 pm
OMG I am over the moon with happiness for you and your staff. What an exciting time for those of us that follow the Panda world. I happen to read about the twins on my facebook from Frank the Gorilla, could Bai Yun get a FaceBook link? I pray for a stay and healthy pregnancy.
July 29th, 2009 at 3:07 pm
It would be so awsome if SDZ had the first panda twins in the US.
July 29th, 2009 at 3:08 pm
This is very exciting. Bai moved into her den after I read the blog and doesn’t look very comfortable, changing positions a lot. Praying for at least one healthy cub. Bai and Gao have done us all proud again.
July 29th, 2009 at 3:16 pm
I never doubted that there would be another!!! It would be SO thrilling to experience twins here in the States for the 1st time but a healthy cub wins out over anything else!!
Thanks so much for the update and video!!
July 29th, 2009 at 3:21 pm
*Doing my panda dance*
Most importantly, may mama bear have a safe and healthy delivery. Zhen Zhen’s going to be a big sister!!
July 29th, 2009 at 3:25 pm
Thanks for the “Wish List” update – I can’t wait for the posting!!
July 29th, 2009 at 3:39 pm
This is just thrilling news SDZ, congratulations!! So glad she’s growing the world at least another little precious panda cub. I personally don’t care if it’s a male or female, singleton or twins, just that all goes well with Bai our darling and whomever she has. Thanks so much for all the info you’re providing, we just eat it up as you know! Looking forward to the big weekend and week ahead–don’t worry, she WILL deliver before the ice cake day monday I’m sure…It will be such an exciting place, wish I could zip down there…
First twins born in US would be very very cool, nice feather in your already fuzzy cap SDZ panda folks!
We’ll be heading down there to see the new one(s) next year for sure! And the others too of course, love them all.
July 29th, 2009 at 3:43 pm
Joining in the Panda Dance!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Yippee!!
July 29th, 2009 at 3:44 pm
PS Moderator: Thanks for working so diligently to keep up with all the posts today, Are we close to the record number of comments in one day???
Moderator’s note: We think so, but it’s a happy task and we share in everyone’s excitement!
July 29th, 2009 at 4:01 pm
I had to come back this afternoon and re-read everything. Just to pinch myself. I am so grateful…….to Lady Bai, my Shrek Gao, and to the wonderful keepers of our dear beloved pandas. I will gladly take my laptop with me everywhere. I don’t want to miss a moment.
I can see all of us doing the panda dance. I can imagine the excitement you, the keepers and staff, must have felt! THANK YOU for sharing a little of your world with us.
July 29th, 2009 at 4:15 pm
Congratulations to the excellent panda team! Hoping Bai has a safe delivery.
July 29th, 2009 at 5:09 pm
HIP HIP HOORAY!!!!!!
July 29th, 2009 at 5:11 pm
Ohhh my, ohhh my – what wonderful news.:) What a pair our Bai & our small in weight but super SUPER STUD Gao (luv the go-go Gao) are. While twins would be exciting I am just hoping for a healthy cub. Are there any calls to China for help if Bai does twins.
July 29th, 2009 at 5:15 pm
I agree, as iffy as panda breeding seems to be, the fact that Bai has never missed with Gao had most of us convinced a new panda was on the way from the first day. Keeping our fingers crossed that both cubs are born and thrive.
July 29th, 2009 at 5:41 pm
To All: Just for fun, I decided to check the 7/31/2007 blogs. Suzanne Hall posted the news about a visual of that little darling who would be named Zhen Zhen at 9:58AM. That day 51 responses were posted. By the end of the day on 8/1/2007, the responses totalled 125
Today, 7/29/2007, the number is 102 
Twice as many wild and enthusiastic responses this year for the news 
Go back to the news for 7/31/2007 and look at the sonagram again. Technology has advanced yet again. This years photo is even clearer 
This is soooo exciting!!!
Moderator’s note: Thanks for doing the research for us, Bobbie. It’s so nice to see more panda fans joining in on panda blog post fun!
July 29th, 2009 at 5:56 pm
Oh, this is exciting even if there is only one cub. I just hope everything goes well with Bai and the cub or cubs that are born.
July 29th, 2009 at 6:08 pm
EEEEEEEEEE BABY BABY BABY!!!
I am so thrilled! Yay!!!!!!!!!
Loved the video of Bai getting her ultrasound. I love seeing how sweet the keepers are with her and how she was enjoying whatever it was on the spoon.
July 29th, 2009 at 6:31 pm
I guess everyone is out doing the panda dance–come back, Meerkats! There are pandas to be watched!
July 29th, 2009 at 6:33 pm
Oh my goodness! I came home from work today, checked SDZ, and found not only was there a new post but already 103 responses! What great news! Would love to see twins born, and then to follow whatever must be done. If anyone can deal with twins Queen Mother Bai can. I just hope it/they are born before we leave the country on Aug. 7 for 10 days. Whatever would I do! In any case I will have withdrawal until I return. But I have no doubt she will do an awesome job without me. She is the best!
July 29th, 2009 at 7:10 pm
OMG–I thought Bai Yun was going to have the cub–she came into the den and started standing on her head (do pandas have contractions?) and throwing some leaves—but now she’s having a little snack. And now she’s stopped…oh this is getting so exciting!!
July 29th, 2009 at 7:14 pm
When I tuned into the panda cam about 10 minutes ago, it looked like Bai was in labor, she was putting her head down, making her look like a big white ball. It looked like she was rolling around, just kinda odd positions. I left to check the blogs and am soooo excited to learn the good news about the pregnancy and the twins. When I went back to the cam, she was sitting up and eating……
I hope all goes well for our beloved Bi Yun, it seems like she has it under control, we just have to wait for the big event and contain our excitement. Good luck all !!
July 29th, 2009 at 8:01 pm
I’ve come back 3 times to catch up on the number of responses. I was going to ask if this was a record. Bobbie you beat me to the draw! It’s so much fun reading all the excitement in everyone. I cannot imagine what the blog will look like on the day of this birth. Gives me chills to be in the midst of so many panda lovers!
July 29th, 2009 at 8:11 pm
Hi Judy, I was just observing Bai Yun to it looks like she is in labor I wish we could know? Bai Yun you go girl , we love you
July 29th, 2009 at 8:23 pm
Congratulations to SDZ and keepers! Can’t wait to see the new cubbie(s)! Hope all goes well.
Conversation with Gao Gao #61
Gao Gao: Zzzzz…
Tourist: Hello, Gao Gao.
G: Oh…. Uh, hello, Mr. Tourist.
T: Hey! Did you hear?
G: Huh?
T: Madame Bai is pregnant with twins.
G: Huh? I don’t remember making love with her again recently.
T: No, you must have fertilized 2 of her eggs when you last mated.
G: Really?
T: Yeah! Congratulations!
G: OO! OO!
T: Huh? What’s the matter?
G: OO! EEE! Oo, ah, ah!
T: Uh, oh.
G: Ting tang, walawala bang bang!
T: Witch doctors?
G: No, the sperm warriors are restless.
T: Wow, what a cartwheel!
(then Gao proceeds to handstand scent marking activities)
July 29th, 2009 at 8:29 pm
awww…Bai is all curled up on her tummy, sleeping. *smooch*
July 29th, 2009 at 8:31 pm
It looks like she is resting now , Its so exciting and Im so anxious at the same time
Its 100 degrees today in Seattle and yes we cant handle over 90 its pretty hot and miserable unless you have AC in your home. It sure is nice to have sun and not the rain for a while 
Patients all of us panda fans , easier said than done LOL Thinking of you Bai Yun lots of lovr sweetie xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxox
July 29th, 2009 at 9:04 pm
What wonderful news to come home to! Long hard day suddenly becomes quite joy-filled!!
July 29th, 2009 at 9:40 pm
Ooooooh this is so exciting!!! This will be my third SDZ panda birth (but first time posting here – hi everyone!), and I am in awe of these beautiful creatures. As excited as I am, I can only imagine the elation and other emotions that the keepers, vets, staff and other pandafans are feeling. Thanks so much for sharing news and educational information with us. By the way, I love the new pandacam views – so clear and vivid and, as always, expertly manned by the amazing Meerkats.
July 29th, 2009 at 9:56 pm
Mother Nature sure keeps us learning, doesn’t she. I appreciate your sharing the incredible details about panda pregnancy–and I’m sure you gave us the layperson version. Has the 24hr observation started? Thanks to everyone for allowing all of us to be a part of the journey. Although I don’t contribute to the blog very often, I am here several times each day!! I think I watched the ultrasound video 4 times
July 29th, 2009 at 10:04 pm
Horrah! Horrah! As I’ve said many times recently, it is getting really exciting in Panda Canyon these hot days of mid-Summer. Can’t wait until the big birth-day to see how this mystery plays out. Hopefully Bai will end her run of fabulous births and maternal care with two. But, one will do nicely.
July 29th, 2009 at 10:33 pm
HOLY COW and WOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I finally got onto my computer at around 1:15am, July 30, and to my wonderful surprise, I saw a picture of the ultrasound that you had on Bai Yun and saw a little baby panda cub!! I also saw the video of the procedure and watched the ultrasound being done. If my eyes were not fooling me, that little baby panda was moving a little bit! And to see twins??? Say wow again backwards—WOW!!!!!! I hope that she will have both babies successfully, hopefully takes care of both of them, but in the event she only takes one out of two, you guys will be there to help her with the other twin baby panda! That will make USA zoo history if and when Bai does have twins! You all are probably definitely on 24/7 birth watch right now, and I will definitely keep watching the SDZ pandacam alot more often now! If a momma red panda at Red River Zoo in Fargo, N. Dakota can successfully give birth to triplets and take care of all 3 of them for the last couple of months, then Bai Yun can have her twins and take care of both babies! Keep your fingers crossed and keep on praying, you all!
I made a birth prediction of between Aug. 1-8 a couple of days ago, but after seeing that lovely ultrasound, I’ll shorten that prediction to between Aug. 1-3! I will be very surprised if Bai does give birth on July 31, my sister Donna’s birthday! I had a very big, huge gut feeling that Bai will be pregnant again this year. She has been way too consistant not to be pregnant! Another year of cub watching to look forward to again, this time maybe watching TWO cubs!! HELLO!!!!!!
All of the panda keepers are in my heart, mind, and prayers! A long weekend is ahead for all of us!
Chari Mercier
St. Pete, FL
July 29th, 2009 at 11:00 pm
Oh yeah! I forgot about a certain polar bear named Chinook! Now that we know for sure that Bai will have a baby panda cub, we are hoping that Chinook will also be pregnant with a couple of polar bear cubs soon! Keep praying and fingers crossed for Chinook! Wouldn’t that be great for momma panda Bai and future momma polar bear Chinook to have babies in the same year? We’ll be watching both cams if and when that does happen! That’ll keep all of us busy for a long time!
May God bless Bai Yun and Chinook!
Chari Mercier
St. Pete, FL
July 29th, 2009 at 11:31 pm
Well, my gosh, mom is having twins and oldest daughter had a baby on July 7th. What a breeding program SDZ has created. Just between these two females there are 13 panda babies for our world.
WOW!!!!!
July 29th, 2009 at 11:35 pm
Me again! I just checked the Pandas Live On website, and they had the news about Bai Yun’s pregnancy on their FRONT PAGE! They even printed Suzanne Hall’s update about Bai along with the pics of the ultrasound procedure, the ultrasound picture, and a pic of Bai in her den. They have also provided the link to the video of the ultrasound procedure. Apparently, this news travels very quickly! They are watching and waiting like the rest of us, and very excited about the news as well. The news about Bai’s pregnancy was the ONLY article on their front page!!
Now, I’m going to bed—for now! May get up in a few hours to check in on the pandacam!
Chari Mercier
St. Pete, FL
PS: Wrote this after 2:30am this morning, July 30, after checking the website!!
July 30th, 2009 at 6:01 am
The news about Bai Yun is causing ‘panda-monium’ on the web it seems. When I googled Bai Yun Pregnant, it came up with over 200 articles including, can you believe it, Hollywood news sites and the New York Post is calling Bai the Angelina Jolie of pandas…lol! Bai Yun is a star…but then we always knew she was !
Our ’star’ is in her den this morning alternately munching boo and bending over with her head down…probably getting ready for her next ‘close up’!
July 30th, 2009 at 6:31 am
P Wong – where are you..? Hope you aren’t missing all this excitement. Lots of us are anticipating the next “conversation”..
July 30th, 2009 at 6:48 am
I just looked in on the Bai cam it looks to me like Bai has something going on…..as she is sitting in funny position. I hope she is ok. I am sure she is being closely watched so I am sure I have nothing to worry about but I still do now that I know there is possibility of two baby bears.
July 30th, 2009 at 7:45 am
What a wonderful way to start my day at work….I’m absolutely thrilled. Bai Yun is and has always been a STAR!
July 30th, 2009 at 8:40 am
This is wonderful news. Totally thrilled. More panda dances from across the Pond!
July 30th, 2009 at 8:59 am
Just was reminded that the postcard page still reverts to the old cam page after I send mail. Am using Firefox on top of Vista. Wonder if others are still having this problem. Thanks for any information about this.
Bai is so beautiful. Yes, indeed, P.Wong, where are you? or are you waiting for the blessed event?
Moderator’s note: We’ll look into that postcard feature concern–thank you. Check comment #112 for P. Wong’s latest interview.
July 30th, 2009 at 9:01 am
Oh how exciting!! I can’t wait to see the outcome of this pregnancy!! I loved the ultrasound – thanks!
July 30th, 2009 at 9:07 am
This is soooo exciting. I am alerting all my friends to the news. Will the pandacam be on during the birth as it was in Atlanta?
July 30th, 2009 at 9:09 am
Hi again! Was just on the SDZ pandacam showing Bai in her den laying down on her back. Oh yeah—the cam picture is so much better than the one you had a couple of years ago. It is so much clearer and sharper! That was a great idea for you all to replace the cam in the den. Now, we are waiting for Bai to give birth to hopefully TWO cubs! Waiting game has started, but I hope that it doesn’t last for too long!
Speaking of baby animals, a very rare Indian rhino female gave birth to a baby female Indian rhino the first week of July at my local zoo, Lowry Park Zoo! This is a big first for this zoo! Looked at the pics of this cute baby, and she’s got BIG ears in relation to her small head! Now, Lowry Park has a few names set up on their website for us to vote on. We’ll know her name on August 14. The cycle of babies being born at all of the zoos around the world continues on, including baby pandas!
Now, back to the cam to watch Bai Yun!
Chari Mercier
St. Pete, FL
July 30th, 2009 at 9:21 am
If my memory serves me right, Lun Lun was in a standing position when she gave birth to Xi Lan.
July 30th, 2009 at 9:33 am
P.Wong as usual you are on the mark. Thanks
July 30th, 2009 at 9:42 am
Wait – WHAT is the expected date of birth for Bai’s baby/babies??? I thought it would be awhile, but reading everyone’s comments could be ANY DAY NOW? Is that right?? OMG – how exciting!!!
July 30th, 2009 at 9:44 am
This is such an exciting news! Although there are many research on pandas, there’s always more to learn and study. I see that Bai Yun is resting in the den now, so I hope she’s getting all the rest she will need. My birthday is coming up, so maybe Bai Yun can give me a really really big present? =) Well, I just want her and her fetuses to be healthy.
July 30th, 2009 at 9:46 am
I sent myself a postcard that showed Bai’s mammary glands and I swear it looked a baby or two lying on her tummy and chest. Certainly was worth a double take or two.
July 30th, 2009 at 9:56 am
WOW!!! What exciting news! Congratulations Mama Bai, Papa Gao Gao, and the keepers. Whether it’s one precious baby, or two, this is terrific news. Looks like we’re officially on baby watch now…
July 30th, 2009 at 9:59 am
I just read that Hua Mei’s baby is a little girl and they have named her Hao Hao,and that the other cub born that day is a male named Yun Yun.
July 30th, 2009 at 10:06 am
Ooops!! Sorry to jump the gun, P Wong. Your “conversation with Gao” must have been in the waiting for moderation phase when I posted my note. Anyhow, I have to echo the sentiments of Kathy Hacker (#121) about the outstanding success of the panda breeding program in SDZ. It would seem to me that the other US zoos with pandas would jump on the bandwagon and follow their exact program right down to the letter. I am thinking a big part of their success lies with Gao Gao and his ability to mate naturally, which is something the male pandas at the other zoos have not yet managed to do. I can’t help thinking that keeping Bai and Gao apart (as opposed to letting them interact like Mei Xiang and Tian Tain do) is also a part of the success. Whatever the magical recipe is, it is certain that the panda folks (and the pandas themselves) have the right stuff!! Congrats to all and great job!!!
July 30th, 2009 at 10:07 am
OMG – Bai Yun is pregnant – again!!! And Gao Gao is just a super panda stud! I just feel compelled to break from my usual lurking to add a comment – I’d feel left out otherwise as clearly everyone else is doing the same! What magnificent news!
I follow the SDZ panda news and watch panda cam religiously and it is a real privilege to be able to share such an intimate experience with Bai Yun and her dedicated keepers and research staff. Thank you so much to everyone involved at SDZ for making this possible for all of us on the outside, especially in the UK (where I am) where we have no pandas. Your blogs, cameras and other content is incredibly informative and it has opened up a whole new world of animal biology and ecology for me to learn about. It has enlightened me to the plight of endangered species in a way that I don’t think any other educational programme could (for me at least). What amazing work you all do – I truly look forward to being able to visit your zoo one day and experience it all first hand (I think I’ll faint when I see a panda in the fur for the first time though!…)
Good luck with the next few days and weeks. I sincerely hope all goes smoothly for Bai Yun and that there is one, and possibly two, healthy new cub(s) to welcome and celebrate.
Finally (sorry for the long post) a question for the staff – do newborn pandas have any sort of umbilical cord or placenta? Videos I’ve seen of panda births don’t seem to show this…or is it so tiny it can easily be missed?
July 30th, 2009 at 10:32 am
P. Wong, thank you, as always. I’m glad he “gets” it now! LOL.
This may sound stupid, but since there’s a wide spread of days for a pandas pregnancy, can the doctors get an idea from the ultrasound on how well developed the cubs are; therefore, a guess at the delivery date? I’m not sure if I asked that very well.
Thank you again for all the updates and our pandas’ wonderful care!
July 30th, 2009 at 10:35 am
Yippee Skippee!!! I too will be praying that all goes well. I know everyone at SDZ is totally on top of this and will be Bai Yun’s best helpers. I’m betting a bunch of nice, crispy bamboo on August 2nd as being the happy day. (I have two wonderful friends with that as their birthday.)
So exciting!!
July 30th, 2009 at 10:36 am
I decided since there is another Lisa I would add my state.
I am at work, but checking in on Bai often. She looks pretty content. I hate waiting, but she will have the cub(s) when she is ready and not before. My step-sister was visiting and one of her daughters wants to be a vet so I told her about the impending event. She seemed as excited as a 12 year old can get.
Thanks P Wong for such a cute conversation, I guess Go Go Gao will have to wait for a while before he needs the sperm warriors again
Oh well, he seems happy with his boo, if he can’t have his Bai.
July 30th, 2009 at 10:46 am
Thank you SDZ staff for the wonderful information and the video of Bai’s ultrasound. My husband and I were so excited to be able to view this procedure from our home in Pennsylvania. We are thinking August 1 would be a great day for a new panda cub.
July 30th, 2009 at 11:01 am
WEll no WONDER SHE IS ALWAYS SLEEPING!! She is tired and storing up! The camera today has been looking down on top of her for a LONG time that started this morning and now it is middle after noon here in kc and she is still sleeping… Good news! Hope all goes well as intended.
July 30th, 2009 at 11:02 am
P Wong, thanks for the laugh, that was hilarious. I’m so excited for Bai.
July 30th, 2009 at 11:11 am
Wonderful Zoo folk: is there any chance of giving us some brief updates over the weekend?
We know you’ll be super busy, so we’ll all understand if you can’t do it, but if you can spare a minute, just a sentence of two would keep us all slightly sane.
I know I chose Aug 8, but I think I’m wrong. I think it’s going to be very soon.
And everybody, don’t forget that with either a Mac or a PC, you can enlarge the image of the Pandacam. On a Mac (Safari), go into the pulldown menu for “View” and deselect “zoom text only.” Then zoom in as much as you like. It also works with Firefox, I’m told.
Don’t know as much about PCs, but I believe some on another thread said that you can magnify the image with a tool in the bottom bar.
With the new camera upgrades, even when enlarged the image is quite good.
Thank you all! (And thank you Bai and Gao–especially Lady Bai!)
July 30th, 2009 at 11:32 am
Lisa #143: I think there may be several of us. I usually lurk, but enjoy the updates and everyone’s comments. If you are also Lisa #40, good luck with your father, this must be a very difficult time.
Linda A. / NorCal # 141: I have the same question about whether or not the ultrasound can give an EDC based on the image/development of the fetus like they can for humans. I wondered this based on one of the articles I read in which Dr. Sutherland was quoted as giving a “due date” in August.
P Wong: Thanks for another fun conversation. Love them!
July 30th, 2009 at 11:32 am
Echoing previous posters’ sentiments, thanks so much for Dr. Meg’s report with the ultrasound, for the wonderful explanations of the moderators (along with their patience while we all multi-task with questions as we do the panda dance), and the absolutely marvelous camera work in the den. So sharp and clear I almost felt like I could reach out and pat Bai-Yun on the head.
Rest up, Mama. You’ll need it…
July 30th, 2009 at 11:47 am
Wow! that is a great news!!!
July 30th, 2009 at 12:12 pm
WOW, I checked out Bai in the den. There was a close up of her lovely face. It is so clear, she is so beautiful, i had to share. It’s 12:11pm in San Diego right now. Eight more days until I head to Beijing for work and attempting to get to Bifengxia to see our pandas there.
Moderator’s note: Have a safe trip to China, Michelle G, and let us know of any panda sightings!
July 30th, 2009 at 12:19 pm
Welcome to all the new people here! Yes, we all have one particular thing in common — insane about pandas!
Kris, #139 I agree with you that SDZ certainly seems to have the perfect program in place for pandas. Their animals are proof of that….
I am hoping for a birth this weekend! From the looks of Bai the beautiful today, it seems very probable.
July 30th, 2009 at 12:20 pm
Didn’t Bai have an early estrus this year? Everytime I look at her I am thinking it will be in the next day or two. Maybe this time she will give us a July cubbie..??
July 30th, 2009 at 12:20 pm
I, like everyone else, am very excited. I’m sure everyone knows what a true event this is. It is truly a miracle to have a panda have one cub, let alone 5(6?). Dr. Meg said that the fetus was in a very early stage of development. Not knowing how long it takes for it to be near time for birth, I just figure it is too soon for a cub to be born just yet. I can only watch and wait for this very blessed event. Isn’t this fun panda fans?
July 30th, 2009 at 12:24 pm
Fantastic news,Gao Gao you are the best,Bai Yun… just a brilliant panda,you just want to hug them both
July 30th, 2009 at 12:30 pm
I’m curious as to whether Bai’s keepers talk to her while she’s in the den? They must when they deliver bamboo?
Bai looks somewhat relaxed now, having a snack in the den–but I’m sure we’d all like to send her a big “hang in there” or a “we’re with you, girl” when she seems to be having some discomfort. Well, I would anyway.
Thanks, P Wong, for speaking to Gao Gao for us. Bet he’s getting ready to pass out those bamboo cigars!
July 30th, 2009 at 12:36 pm
I just wanted to send an extended thank you and congratulations to all the unsung heros that work tirelessly behind the scenes at the SDZ. I’m sure you all share in the happiness of this impending birth, but you too deserve the kudos when it comes to helping in your own way pave the way to where we ultimately are, on the cusp of one, or two more babies capable of helping this species survive, and perhaps help repopulate the wilds of our world.
Whatever your job is at SDZ (custodial, landscape, nutrition, HR, guest services, etc, etc, etc…) thank you, and congratulations. We often forget about your contribution and how important it is in the day to day workings of the zoo. May you all bask in the glory of a new, healthy baby panda.
July 30th, 2009 at 12:52 pm
This is so amazing! Can’t wait to see the little miracle(s)..thanks so much Suzanne for this wonderful update
)
July 30th, 2009 at 1:50 pm
I was wondering if there is something that can be done about the camera numbers. They are hard to read, in being that they are very small now, and also hard to see through the background of the picture.
Sometimes it’s just a bit difficult to figure out who you are looking at. Bai and Gao are dead give aways, but Sue and Zhen, might be a bit hard.
Thank You !
Moderator’s note: As we’ve said previously, we are looking into this concern. In the meantime, many of our readers have offered tips and suggestions for enlarging the numbers in the comments section of this and previous posts.
July 30th, 2009 at 2:00 pm
I’m sorry…..this is too much work! Trying to actually get work done while doing my panda dance, while checking the cam, while checking the blog for updates and posts. I have been eating the same little salad for 45 minutes!
July 30th, 2009 at 2:18 pm
I was browsing briefly through BBC News in Chinese when I spotted the photo of Bai Yun and adorable Su Lin (or is it Zhen Zhen). Apparently, the news of Bai Yun pregnant with twins spread quickly to the media as well!
July 30th, 2009 at 2:35 pm
Lanie #159 and others,
I would urge you to use the tips presented by other cam viewers as a remedy for your concern about camera number size. We are trying to balance your need to ID a panda with our need to observe the bear without obstructions. As you might imagine, during a birth watch and post partum window we want to see as much as possible every little detail in the den. We do not want larger numbers on the screen at this time.
July 30th, 2009 at 2:46 pm
i for one don’t mind the cam characters being small…that way they don’t get in the way of my panda watching.
July 30th, 2009 at 3:33 pm
Michelle G (#151): Hope you have a great trip to Bifengxia. If you get a chance, give both Hua Mei and Mei Sheng my love. I got to spend quality time with HM in June, but MS was not on exhibit. Look for him in the nearest tree. You are going to have such a great time there. The keepers are wonderful to work with and each has his/her own style. Are you staying in Ya’an while you are there or will you stay at the reserve. If you get a chance, find out how to get to Shangli — it’s a lovely ancient village and should be rocking right now.
Again, have a wonderful time and a safe trip.
July 30th, 2009 at 4:18 pm
To zoom the cam page on a PC running Firefox…zoom in with ctrl + zoom out with ctrl – and reset to normal size with ctrl 0 (that’s a zero)
Thanks for sharing the ultrasound…seeing that tiny little panda moving around was breathtaking!
July 30th, 2009 at 4:29 pm
my only complaint about the new clear cams are the tiny, tiny, letters indicating the location of the pandas.
I find them hard to read clearly. I guess my eyes aren’t what they used to be!! any chance of enlarging the letters? I already posted somewhere around 38 and can’t believe how many more people have posted since yesterday! it is truly amazing how many pandaholics are out here glued to their screens waiting for any and all news relating to our pregnant bai and the arrival of another precious little bear ( or bears! ) how exciting it is for everyone! panda canyon must be in 7th heaven!!!!! I guess I will get off this site to make room for more posters! bye………….
Moderator’s note: Nancy, please see other suggestions from our readers on enlarging the view.
July 30th, 2009 at 4:42 pm
The cam has been on Su Lin for a while. Has Bai Yun gone into labor?
Forgive me is I’m jumping the gun but I’m just so anxious for her to deliver and the baby look quite developed from the ultrasound that I’ve been expecting it any time now….I’m sure I’m not the only panda lover to feel this way…!
July 30th, 2009 at 4:51 pm
160 – Linda A – Work??what is that?? Have been glued to the cam for hours now doing the panda dance:)
#162 Suzanne -During the birth watch I’ll give up all cam numbers:)
#163 Paula – I’m with you -small numbers (can be enlarged) & better panda viewing:)
July 30th, 2009 at 4:54 pm
Wow was reading ellie blogs and found out about the great news. I am so excited and happy about Bai Yun and Gao Gao news of a new baby and maybe twins. I know you pandas keepers are beside your selves and I am with you. I do think if Bai has twins, she can handle it with help from keepers with a little switch a roo everyday. Congrats to all especially Bai and Gao! I still do not understand the den, how will we be able to see the baby with all that paper? Also, we need the sound, to hear the babies loud scream.
July 30th, 2009 at 4:55 pm
I am addicted to the panda cam right now waiting for our beautiful Bai to give birth. Thankyou again to all the panda keepers that keep our favorite panda family healthy and happy.
I pray we have a brother for the girls!!!
July 30th, 2009 at 6:38 pm
ZZ, I still love you! You’re still the cutest little girl, and always will be to me, even when the newbies arrive…
i wonder if you can smell something new happening, in the air………….
July 30th, 2009 at 7:43 pm
P Wong’s back from hibernating! Thanks for the latest conversation between Gao and tourist. Now, is there anyway you can write one up between ZZ and Su Lin about their mom’s upcoming babies? That would be an interesting one to write up! Anyway, keep them coming, ok? Been missing you on the comment page lately!
Got on the pandacam and saw ZZ eating her boo dinner. I’ll keep checking the cam off and on to catch Bai in her den.
Gonna go! Will write in later on!
Chari Mercier
St. Pete, FL
July 31st, 2009 at 6:34 am
I am still keeping all my fingers crossed for Bai having a healthy cub[s]. I was on the webcam a few times during the night but it didnt show Bai at all. I’m in Virginia ,so its 3 hrs later here. I sure hope all is going well. Maybe she isnt quite ready yet for 24hr panda cam watch. N.Z and A.Z had cams constantly on their pandas I want to thank all the animal keepers for their splendid work taking care of all the animals .Praying for Bai and healthy cub.
July 31st, 2009 at 7:00 am
Suzanne # 162
I am certain most ‘pandaholics’ like myself are very appreciative of the efforts made by you and your team, together with Dr.Meg Sutherland-Smith, to keep us informed on Bai Yun’s pregnancy and all things ‘panda’.
Like Jane #29, I have been watching the Panda Cam since Hua Mei was born, it was magical then however with the event of new technology and 24/7 the coverage we now receive is first class.
The size of the Cam number displayed is ‘helpful’ but secondary to the fact we are able to view amazing live close ups of Bai Yun and the other pandas.
In those early days we were grateful of any news as there were no ‘blogs’ – if I recall correctly I think the ‘blogs’ commenced after the birth of Su Lin?
I think many people will be using a computer which will have ‘zoom level’ at the bottom right of their screen or elsewhere, it is easy to enlarge the picture.
It is of far greater importance that you and the team have an unobstructed view of of what Bai Yun is doing in her nest and other – the ’smaller display’ is immaterial.
I am very happy with everything and I am certain many other pandaholics will agree.
Thank you for ensuring we have Panda perfect days….
Best regards
Hazel
Moderator’s note: Hazel, you are correct. Our first panda posts were written just before Su Lin was born in 2005.
July 31st, 2009 at 7:13 am
I noticed there are other Melissa’s posting here…I’m the one that posted comment 14.
I just remembered another option to aid in viewing the small numbers on the cams…Most versions of Vista (and maybe XP but I’m not sure) have an option called a “Magnifier.” In Vista, go to the Accessories folder and find the Ease of Access folder. Within that folder is the Magnifier feature. Things on the screen can be made up to 16X bigger and the magnified area can be placed just about anywhere on your screen, per a person’s favorite surfing and viewing habits.
I was having internet problems yesterday and was doubtful I’d be able to get online today or ever…I told everyone in the house last night that we may be without internet for awhile and the first comment was “We won’t be able to find out when the new butterstick is born!” There are lots of people, even non-pandaholics, who are excited about Bai Yun’s pregnancy. Just wanted to let SDZ know that their efforts to connect people to wildlife are far-reaching. The power of the panda is also awesome! Thanks SDZ! Go Bai!
July 31st, 2009 at 7:43 am
10:42 EDT Bai looks like she is panting. I can’t tell if it’s the heat or contractions. I am so excited, I want to go for a smoke but I don’t want her to have the cub while I am out. Maybe I will be able to stop smoking if she doesn’t give birth soon!!!!
Come on Bai, I want a July cubbie.
July 31st, 2009 at 8:02 am
That den cam is just great–beautiful, clear picture, and a close-up this morning of sweet Bai resting. What an incredible nest she has made…no wonder she’s the “Queen Mum” of the Panda world!
July 31st, 2009 at 8:04 am
I agree with Paula (#163). The smaller numbers do not obstruct viewing. You always can enlarge the image and therefore the numbers by pushing your control key (ctrl) and scroll upward with your mouse.
July 31st, 2009 at 8:12 am
The new updated live camera feed is so clear, it’s like Bai is in the room with me! I’ve been watching every cub since Hua Mei and it just keeps getting better and better. The entire staff there is just incredible! Thanks for all you do for ALL the animals and for keeping us educated and up to date!!
I think we are in for a VERY exciting weekend!
July 31st, 2009 at 8:21 am
Thank You Suzanne. I understand now, as I’m watching Bai in the den. I was thinking the same as
Paula # 163. Having the smaller numbers does create a better viewing experience. Sorry for the complaint, guess I should have read the other posts before posting regarding this. =)
July 31st, 2009 at 9:12 am
Hi Ei #165, I use Firefox as well and just tried the zoom in and out, works great. Thanks for the tip. I’m all set now, just waiting for Bai and the big moment !!
July 31st, 2009 at 9:16 am
I am relieved it will be one and does it look healthy and ready to pop out! i say it’s TODAY, hope so for our dear Bai’s sake! Ultrasound was fascinating and really excellent view. Nature intended just one for panda mothers for good reason (look at XL on his mom, do we really want Bai to have 2 of him?) cute though they are, one per mom is enough for this species! TODAY!!! Do it Bai, come on baby cub! cam’s on SL, maybe it’s happening right now! they’ll take a video with sound for us to view of the actual birth, so don’t worry new panda watchers, just trust the SDZ panda folks, they are old hands at this. GO BAI!!!
July 31st, 2009 at 9:30 am
Looks like Bai Yun is practicing sleeping on her back while holding a cubbie in her paw!
July 31st, 2009 at 9:37 am
As a matter of fact, I like the smaller cam characters. I can remember mentally complaining about the previous large numbers obstructing the view when I was watching, i.e. close-ups of those beautiful faces. As I stated earlier, my bifocals help me out, if I want to see the numbers.
July 31st, 2009 at 9:41 am
WOW WOW WOW I knew it last time I was at the SDZ I was talking to one of the women that gives updates when your walking thru the exhibit and we were saying oh boy it would be great if she has twins. So I guess I will be coming back to SDZ for the upcoming panda baby, good excuse to come back to the zoo. Congrats to everyone at the Zoo and I hope everything goes well and Bai Yun has 2 panda babies. I wonder if the SDZ will do a swap the pandas like they do in China so that both pandas are taken care of by the mother Panda. I think its a great thing they do so she doesn’t reject the weaker panda. Well again CONGRATS and right now she looks so sweet and content sleeping, resting up for the uncoming arrivals…
July 31st, 2009 at 9:51 am
How is Bai Yun today??? No contractions yet???
I can’t wait to see the new little one!!!!
Sophie in Montreal
July 31st, 2009 at 9:52 am
Betsey (#169) – In the beginning, it is VERY difficult to see the new cub. Remember how tiny they are – about the size of a stick of butter and Bai will hold it constantly for the 1st several days to keep it warm and fed. Even though sightings of the newborn are few and far between in the early days, there will still be many of us glued to the cam just hoping for a glimpse. Often, the best time to see the cub is when Bai is comfortable leaving it in the den for a few moments while she gets a drink of water or a quick snack. Forgive me if I am mistaken but are you new to this? If so, welcome! SDZ is very generous with the cam, pictures and video whenever possible when there is a new arrival. The staff there truly rocks and I feel privileged to be a part of this community. This is a very exciting time and the staff is very busy yet they still take the time to keep us informed. Thank you SDZ!!!
July 31st, 2009 at 9:57 am
Watcing Bai in her den laying on her back with her large arm over her face! And, moving around! Between me and my son on this computer, I’ll do my best to keep up with Bai today. I have to go do my monthly money errands, but I’ll be back to check in on Bai. The cam was also on Su Lin, and the cam meerkats had a great closeup of her slumped over a log napping. Does she know that she’ll be a big sis again?? Gotta go and do my stuff! Will be back later! We got a thunderstorm going on here right now!!
Chari Mercier
St. Pete, FL
July 31st, 2009 at 10:25 am
Maybe you can’t answer this now……..but are you are 24 hour watch? We all are!
July 31st, 2009 at 11:07 am
looks like mommy can “bearly” fit in the nursery….hope it will be big enough for 2……or 3…she looks so dang cute when she’s lying there just looking out watching the world before her. wonder if she’s remembering her last time in the nursery with little ZZ, sweet memories….and new ones to come…..
July 31st, 2009 at 11:07 am
I love the new clear cams. The close-ups of the pandas and polar bears is fantastic. I don’t mind the small writing. My eyes are fighting short and long sight at the same time so I am now finding the small writing easier to read. Something good out of getting old I suppose!
Bai is sleeping in her den. Marti, OR we are definitely, positively, most certainly coming over, hopefully there will be another Breakfast.
Lots of love to Bai.
July 31st, 2009 at 11:22 am
Hazel # 174 — I too have been watching the panda cam since Hua Mei was born. At the time, it was amazing to me that we could catch even a glimpse of what was going on in the den. As you say, the technological advances since then have been “first class.” What we see on the cams today is so far superior to what we could see back then! Of course the introduction of these blogs around the time of Su Lin’s birth was wonderful and opened up a whole new world of information. We are all very blessed to be able to watch and learn about our favorite animals in nearly real time. Thanks SDZ staff for all you do! Can’t wait for news of the birth(s)!
July 31st, 2009 at 11:42 am
Yes Susan UK i hope so too, breakfast event next year, I am saving up! i’m excited for you to be present for this one from the start–shouldn’t be too long. We won’t any of us worry about not seeing the actual birth real time as they need to shunt the public view outside the den when it’s on. They share video complete with the screeching later if it’s like ZZ (did she have healthy lungs! and leaping around in circles calling for mama who’d stepped out for a sec). The obsessively watching the cam for a tiny cub sighting was fun (stare, stare, “i see it! i see the cub! oops, there goes Bai’s protective paw again, durn!”, back to stare stare).
Oo, oo now the cam is outside the den, maybe now…?
We are all nuts…
August 1st, 2009 at 1:57 pm
Yayyyy! I’m sooooo happy for Baiyun, my favourite, beautiful, wonderful momma panda~! Healthy happy wishes…can’t wait till the baby arrives!
August 3rd, 2009 at 6:57 am
I am so happy to hear this good news( I am Chinese).BiFengXia panda base had 8 panda cubs and Chengdu panda base had 2 panda cubs(a twins)during July this year!
PS:Mei Sheng mated with female panda”Ying Ying” at BiFengXia panda base on 8th May this year.So Mei Sheng will be a father this year.Good news,isn’t it?!
August 3rd, 2009 at 7:21 am
Another news,HuaMei had a cub at BiFengXia panda base on 7th July this year(she had 3 twins before-2004,2005,2007).So HuaMei had 7 children now!
August 3rd, 2009 at 1:17 pm
happy birthday to our beauties.
zz is using her fruitcicle cake as a ladder, merry-go-round and an upside down cake. how fun.
waiting, waiting, waiting, watching, watching, and watching more for our wonderous bai to birth once again.
sigh…..
love from new york.
joan
painted post, n.y.