Pandas: Getting Closer
Posted at 11:17 am July 31, 2009 by Suzanne HallBai Yun continues to progress toward her birthing window in a predictable fashion. Part of this progress means she is “denning up” in preparation for the birth. Over time, she is spending more and more time in the den resting, eating, and nest building inside. In the last 24 hours, she spent 680 minutes (over 11 hours) in that den, but soon enough it will be 1,440 minutes (a full day!).
For now, when she is not in the den, she can typically be found sleeping just outside the den entrance. She no longer makes trips out to the large outdoor space she had available, so the keepers have closed off that area. She has even stopped visiting the garden room and resting atop the platform there. From this point forward, it’s den, bedroom, and sun room…but increasingly just den.
We can’t tell you exactly when Bai Yun will give birth. We can say that all signs point to early August. Our various signs and indicators do have some predictive value for us: How far out did she reduce her bamboo intake? When did she begin spending time in the den? What do the fetal measurements tell us about how developed the cub is? I can tell you that all of these factors are aligning nicely with regard to a predicted birth date, all pointing to windows within a few days of each other. There is enough variability, however, that we won’t be brash enough to predict for you exactly when the cub will be born. You could say we are watching her overnight…
Cub, not cubs. Did I mean to type that? We have good evidence that one cub (gestating in the right uterine horn) is developing beautifully. You may have seen it on the ultrasound pictures, curling its head and moving its paws. The vets have been able to see mineralization of the bones and tiny claws. This cub looks strong and healthy so far. What about its twin?
Last week we saw a heartbeat from the cub in the left uterine horn. It looked smaller and less developed than its sibling. Since that heartbeat sighting, we haven’t had a chance to see Left Cub. We have not seen its heartbeat stop or its placenta degrade as Mei Sheng’s uterine roommate did in 2003. But staff is becoming increasingly suspicious that Left Cub will not survive the pregnancy.
If this makes you unhappy, you’ll have to take it up with Bai Yun. This is her call. But you’ll have to wait for some time, because it looks like she’s going to be busy for the next few months!
Suzanne Hall is a senior research technician for the San Diego Zoo’s Institute for Conservation Research.
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July 31st, 2009 at 11:35 am
Oh! I had so hoped for twins! It would be another milestone in the great Panda program at SDZ. But – whatever will be, will be. The important thing is that Bai and cub are healthy! I have to ask, Suzanne. You almost make it sound like this is a concious decision on Bai’s part. Is this possible? Could she know that she was incubating twins and decided one was all that she could handle? Or is it more the result of the 2nd fetus not being viable? Maybe these things are still among the mysteries of the Giant Panda…??
Suzanne responds: There will never be any way for us to know what thoughts are in Bai Yun’s head. However, litter pruning is almost certainly not a deliberate decision on her part, but rather a result of millions of years of evolution driving the panda away from the ursid model of multiple cubs per litter and toward a more panda-friendly singleton litter. Environmental factors, such as the panda’s dependence on bamboo, probably play a role in this, in that pandas cannot hibernate as long as other bears due to their inability to pack on fat for the prolonged fast.
July 31st, 2009 at 11:37 am
Keeping our psudothumbs crossed for at least one healthy cub……..
July 31st, 2009 at 11:53 am
Oh! This is soooo exciting. Won’t want to leave me pc for fear of missing the BIG event. Whether it be 1 or 2, I will be terribly excited…what with DC and Atlanta having false pregnancies. Good luck to Bai Yun and all staff who will be involved in this fantastic event.
July 31st, 2009 at 11:57 am
Responding to Kris #1: Whether there are 2 cubs or one, it’s still a milestone (especially for Bai Yun). It may not be a conscious decision on her part, but apparently Mother Nature knows how to handle these things when one twin may not be as robust as another. I agree this is yet another mystery of the giant panda. Now, if you’ll all excuse me, I’m going back to my cubicle to practice my Panda Dance. Here’s wishing all a restful, uncomplicated weekend.
July 31st, 2009 at 12:01 pm
Overall excellent news here! I’m expecting it to be within the week. I doubt that Bai Yun will hold off for my Aug 8 prediction.
With effuse apologies to P. Wong, he inspired me to steal his idea and produce a conversation with our resident two-year old. Hope you enjoy it:
A conversation with Zhen Zhen:
Tourist: Hello Miss Zhen Zhen.
ZZ: (crunch) Oh hi, Mr. Tourist.
T: Did you know that your mommy is going to have another little cub?
ZZ: (munch) What’s a cub?
T: A little baby brother or sister for you.
ZZ: Oh. That’s good. I guess.
T: Yes.
ZZ: Is that why Mommy went away?
T: Yes. So she and Daddy could make another panda.
ZZ: That’s OK then. I’m an independent panda now. I’m grown up!
T: Yes, you are.
ZZ: I’m a GIANT panda!
T: You certainly are! Do you miss your Mommy?
ZZ: Sometimes, but it’s really good to get all the bamboo. I’m happy (crunch, munch).
T: What do you think about having a little brother or sister?
ZZ: Hmmmmm. Will it eat my bamboo?
T: Nope. It will just drink milk.
ZZ. That’s good. But will it take my toys?
T: No. It’ll stay with Mommy.
ZZ. Good. My toys are mine. Can I play with the cub?
T: No. You’re too big and it will be very small.
ZZ: I’ll be careful.
T. Yes, but the cub will have to stay with Mommy anyway.
ZZ: Like I did?
T. That’s right.
ZZ. OK. Then I get all the bamboo and toys, right?
T. That’s right.
ZZ. Good. Say hi to Mommy. I’m going to take a nap now (zzzzzz).
T. Sleep well, little Zhen Zhen.
(Dedicated to Kat W., who may be even more in love with Zhen Zhen than I am, if that’s possible.)
July 31st, 2009 at 12:02 pm
Thank you, Suzanne for the weekend update! I am certain that most of us will be leaving the panda-cam site on all day long for days to come
When a panda cub is born, we do not see a placenta. Is it reabsorbed after birth? Also an umbilical cord? Was the latest sonagram done today? The camera in the den is so much clearer now…..I cannot wait for the moment(s) to arrive 
Have a great weekend everyone!
July 31st, 2009 at 12:04 pm
way to go goa and bai hope you have baby boys or boy and hope its healthy. congrats san diego zoo and staff. hope to catch the birthing. watching 24/7.
July 31st, 2009 at 12:04 pm
Looks to me like Bai is having some major contractions right about now. 12:00pm
July 31st, 2009 at 12:05 pm
Well I feel pretty much like everyone else does with the situation at hand. It’s sad, but that is Mother Nature (and Bai)! If we can’t have two healthy cubs, then please Lord let us have one healthy one! Bai is such a good mom!
July 31st, 2009 at 12:10 pm
Thanks you Suzanne for the informative update. It’s nice to know Bai is getting into her typical maternal behavior and denning up for us pandaholics. I just saw her a few minutes ago at around 12 noon and she was lying on her back looking quite restless. Any chance the birth can be earlier than expected? Also, thanks for also giving us a glimpse at the other resident pandas..even late at night. Keep up the great work San Diego Zoo staff- you guys are awesome!
July 31st, 2009 at 12:10 pm
Bobbie #6,
Panda placentas are very small, the size of a silver dollar. When one is expelled after delivery the female bear will quickly ingest it, as most animal mothers do. I consulted with our vet, Dr. Meg Sutherland-Smith, and she assures me that pandas are indeed attached to that placenta via an umbilical cord, though it’s very tiny, and the mother likely ingests its remnants shortly after birth as well.
FYI Bai Yun did not cooperate with ultrasound this morning. If she comes out of the den later today, Dr Meg is standing by.
July 31st, 2009 at 12:17 pm
So the continuing story of “Bai Knows Best” continues. Earlier it looked as if she were doing her pregnancy yoga stretches and now she’s sitting up and resting. And now a nice scratch, or a little grooming (?) with the right hind leg and then the left. And then some more stretchy scratches. Naptime again.
Kris #1’s questions are very interesting ones. More to watch, more to learn.
July 31st, 2009 at 12:20 pm
What a thrill. I’ll be keeping watch along with everybody else.
July 31st, 2009 at 12:22 pm
Thanks, Fonsia, for speaking to Zhen Zhen for us. (And please add me to her group of superfans!)
July 31st, 2009 at 12:27 pm
Fonsia # 5 — that was very sweet — and I’m sure P. Wong won’t mind. Whew… it’s getting harder and harder to concentrate at work — keep checking on our girl Bai. I think I said it before — but the new cameras are amazing — all the better to see the little stick of butter when the time comes. Maybe Bai will surprise us — but one cub or two — just as long as we have another healthy little black & white fur ball to “ooh and aaw” over. Definitely renewing my membership for next year and buying a few for gifts — have a feeling I will be spending every weekend at the SDZ viewing the new cubbie and hopefully the new polar bear cub(s).
July 31st, 2009 at 12:37 pm
hoho, I saw BaiYun mommy went out the den and the door was closed (a shadow patch showed). A ultrasound will be going on? Great expectation of a soon update. I am also watching almost 23/7, review lapse video, love it!!!!
July 31st, 2009 at 12:39 pm
I am still believing that her other twin will survive! We need more pandas in this world! It would be so awesome to have twins out of SDZ! It would make a great stride towards the zoo’s work on panda conservation, I believe! Great job all the SDZ staff and research team, thank you!
July 31st, 2009 at 12:40 pm
Okay, i guess no twins. Thats okay. Bai is a great panda anyways. I cant believe that this is gonna be my 3rd SDZ cub ive watched. Watching Su Lin and Zhen Zhen grow up was one of the coolest expiriences ive had, and I cant wait to watch Momma Bai do it again!
(PS-Still betting on the 12th)
July 31st, 2009 at 12:52 pm
It would be fun if the new baby was born during ZZ and Su Lins birthday celebration on Monday. Has there been another cub born to a mother as Mature (because we women dont like the word old) as Bai ever before?
July 31st, 2009 at 12:53 pm
Twins would have been hard on Bai. One healthy rambunctious cub is super great!
July 31st, 2009 at 12:56 pm
I am still hoping for two, but I’ll be happy just to have one healthy baby (BOY). Rest now BAI your alone time is about to come to an end. I am still hoping for an August 1st birth.
Thanks for the updates, and I know you are all really busy but PLEASE PLEASE try to keep them coming.
July 31st, 2009 at 12:59 pm
Both Su Lin and Zhen Zhen were born, on or the day after my bosses birthday, which is August 2nd, wouldn’t it be great if Bai Yun could safely have twins on the second. First and foremost, I would rather see one very healthy cub, than 2 that might not make it.
And of course my boss always refers to them as the rats, but it is funny how he is always looking when he thinks I don’t know at the pictures.
July 31st, 2009 at 1:16 pm
Just curious–when comparing this pregnancy to the one that held Mei Sheng, did he also develop in the right uterine horn? And what about her other pregnancies? Wondering if the left side is not as able for whatever reason to bring a fetus to term. I am so proud of Bai Yun. One healthy cub is a miracle and the amount of education we have at our fingertips is priceless. Thanks!!
July 31st, 2009 at 1:17 pm
In this case one cub is better than two cubs, since one cub will probably be her last cub.?
Wouldn’t it be great if on Monday 3 August you had 3 little pandas to celebrate!
Way to go Bai Yun, if only some human moms were this good!!!! :>)
July 31st, 2009 at 1:27 pm
is it possible that most panda pregnacies are multiple and as the birthing time nears the energy goes into one viable cub as a way of ensuring that at least one cub is born and the other is reabsorbed?
July 31st, 2009 at 1:45 pm
Susie #19,
Bai Yun is not the oldest panda mother ever. Although nearly all panda births are recorded before the female is 19, there have been a very small number of females who have given birth beyond that. There remains a small possibility that Bai Yun could be one of those bears, and have one more reproductive cycle in her… but no one here would be surprised if this turns out to be her last litter.
July 31st, 2009 at 1:46 pm
Apparently Hua Mei didn’t get the memo about singleton cubs.
July 31st, 2009 at 1:46 pm
Fonsia, #5, great conversation with ZZ. At this point in her maturing rate, I think it is very accurate as to what ZZ would say if she could have a real conversation. She is quite independent now, and mostly wants her bamboo, her toys, and her sleep. She is getting to be a pro at all three. Mommy is becoming a distant memory. Big sister Su Lin, will hopefully soon become a more interesting part of her life at the Howdy Gate after the arrival of her sibling (s).
Although Left cub hasn’t been seen for certain this week, it sounds like it is still possible that both cubs will survive. I have read that there can be as much as 24-48 hours between births. Is that correct? If so, how does a captive mother deal with the sudden labor and delivery of a second cub when she has been totally engrossed in feeding, sheltering, and caring for the first cub for over 24 hours? How often does this happen in captive breeding centers such as Wolong or Chengdu? Are most cubs born closer together or do they often come on succeeding days? I recall that when Hua Mei gave birth this year, and I think with Lun Lun last year, they continued to watch in case a second cub was born hours later.
One healthy cub will be grand, although it would be great for one panda in the US to produce twins. And, it is most likely to be Bai Yun who would and with her experience with 4 cubs already could probably handle it.
July 31st, 2009 at 1:50 pm
Diana #23,
Mei Sheng was gestated in the left uterine horn, and his twin was documented in the right horn.
Celfy #25,
That is a very interesting question and one we are very interested in. To date, Bai Yun is the only female in the world who has allowed extensive ultrasound data to be collected. As a result, we have no one to compare her to. Further, even those pregnancies that we have not seen a twin at any point (i.e., Zhen Zhen), make us wonder…did we just miss it? The uterus is shaped like a Y, and the lower branch lies behind the bladder. It’s possible a cub might get missed if it’s tucked in there. It’s possible that every pregnancy is one of multiples but can be pruned to one before birth. But we really don’t know…yet!
July 31st, 2009 at 1:52 pm
#5Fonsia…loved your conversation with Mr.Tourist and Zhen Zhen. When I got to the part about “is that why Mommy went away?”, I had a snizzle moment and a hiccup…Zhennie is always going to be our baby I guess, no matter how old she gets. I am so excited about the new cub coming. It makes the weaning process that they all go thru a little less sad. I’m sure Bai’s body knows exactly what it is doing and what is best for Bai. One tiny panda cub is such a miracle in itself. I hope all goes well for her in the coming days.
July 31st, 2009 at 1:55 pm
I think everyone just wants a healthy cub or cubs…Bai knows best, but….I haven’t given up on twins…that’s why I asked if it was ever recorded that days even weeks between the birth of twins from the same mother….. Either way I am just excited that she will birth a cub, again…I love U Bai…you are such a great mommie panda..
July 31st, 2009 at 2:13 pm
Lisa #27,
Litter pruning can take place either before or after birth. Without assistance, Hua Mei would have pruned her litter to one by rearing only one cub to adulthood. This decision usually is made quickly, within hours, after birth.
Margaret #28,
The longest interval between births of twins in our database is 566 minutes (9.4 hours).
July 31st, 2009 at 2:13 pm
Thank you, Suzanne for the quick responses to all our questions. You are a fabulous teacher!!!
July 31st, 2009 at 2:25 pm
#5 Fonsia – Great conversation with ZZ and Mr Tourist
! Thank you for the continuing updates on Bai Yun and her pregnancy! I’m happy with whatever she has, one, two, boy, girl…it’s all good. Who knows why she has one and Hua Mei has 2, I suspect it’s like humans in a way – sometimes the parent will be prolific and the children not so much and other times vice versa. The important thing is that cub(s) and mother are both healthy and strong!
July 31st, 2009 at 2:30 pm
#3 Mary Lou it was the Memphis pandas not the Atlanta one who had the false pergnancy this year which was sad for them because it was her second one.
Thank you Fonsia for the wonderful conversation with Miss ZZ I hope she gets a heatlhy brother or sister soon so we can relax.
July 31st, 2009 at 2:34 pm
Cindy (#4), I couldn’t agree with you more. Bai’s gift of another cub is indeed a milestone. I had just really hoped for twins, especially since Hua Mei was so successful having them and Bai was one herself. Plus, I truly feel that if twins panda cubs were to be born in the U.S., SD would be the perfect place for them. They seem prepared for every contigency. I am sure the panda programs at the other zoos are equally wonderful…. And thank you, Suzanne, for addressing my questions! Another reason why I so love SDZ!
July 31st, 2009 at 2:37 pm
Good luck to Bai Yun, I was hoping for twins but a one healthy cub is a blessing. I hope to see
her birth, I am lucky enough to be able to get to the Atlanta zoo quite often and Xi Lan is adorable
and getting ready to celebrate his 1st birthday. I love all the pandas in the U.S. and hope we can
keep them for many years to come. Good work SDZ
July 31st, 2009 at 2:43 pm
assuming bai gives birth to twins, at what point would you retrieve the 2nd cub to hand raise. how do you get close enough to bai to take that second cub. seems like a pretty dicey situation to me.
July 31st, 2009 at 3:01 pm
#5 Fonsia enjoyed your conversation with Zhen but it did bring a few tears. Followed Zhen from birth and it was hard to go through the weaning. Of course now a new cubbie will soon be here and that is what it all about. Pandas rule and I love them all, big and small.
July 31st, 2009 at 3:12 pm
Suzanne,
In your previous blog you mentioned that Bai Yun was herself a twin. I didn’t know that! Did her twin survive, and if so, what became of him (or her)?
Moderator’s note: Bai Yun’s twin died shortly after birth.
July 31st, 2009 at 3:22 pm
Fonsia, your conversation with Miss ZZ played out exactly the way I would expect a 2 year old to respond. Sweet and funny at the same time. Excellent writing. Thank you for all the smiles and giggles you provoked.
I, for one, am no longer hoping for twins. One of these fetuses is not as strong as the other. Think of how horrible we would all feel if 2 were born, and one died after birth. I don’t do well in dilemmas. And think of how Bai Yun would feel if they are not both strong and healthy. I am hoping/praying for one happy, healthy baby and mommy.
Pam T., even Ya Ya did not have a false pregnancy. A fetus was detected on ultrasound, but it was apparently not viable and was absorbed before it fully developed. I guess that’s how Mother Nature handles miscarriages with Giant Pandas. That’s why everyone was so shocked when she did not deliver.
Everyone have a great and safe weekend. And stay cool!
July 31st, 2009 at 4:05 pm
Once again THANKS Suzanne for your blog. I’ve been waiting with bated breath for your updates. I had a sinking feeling since reading your last blog and watching the video of Bai’s ultrasound that “Left cub” wasn’t viable. I’m keeping my hopes up though because as you said it’s up to Bai Yun. Nevertheless, I’m going to continue to pray for “Left cub” and “Right cub” that they both continue to grow and get nutrients to be ready to be born. I still have a picture in my mind of Bai Yun being chased down by TWO cubs. It’s a dream of mine (my apologies keepers as I know will be more work for you!).
I wonder if the “Left cub” just isn’t getting enough nutrients because it’s sibling, “right cub”, is requiring more to grow now. Makes me wonder if this has something to do with the timing of the delayed implantation…just a thought.
I’m going to hope that the keepers and Dr. Meg will get a chance to entice Bai Yun in for “a peek” at the cubs. I hope she’ll be there over the weekend just in case Bai is cooperative to a sonogram….PLEASE PLEASE post a picture as soon as you get one, o.k.? THANKS ALL. YOU ALL ROCK. Thanks for taking such wonderful care of our favorite bears!
July 31st, 2009 at 4:22 pm
#5, Fonsia. Good to have you join in the conversations.
Conversation with Gao Gao #62
Tourist: Hello, Gao Gao.
Gao Gao: Hello, Mr. Tourist.
T: So how are you today?
G: I’m fine, thank you.
T: And you enjoy your meals?
G: Yes, very much.
T: Any more thoughts on Madame Bai’s pregnancy?
G: No, not really. (sniff)
T: Now what do you sniff?
G: Oh, not much.
T: Doesn’t your food smell good?
G: Oh, it’s not that.
T: Huh?
G: Didn’t you mention something about panda eggs?
T: Huh?
G: So I thought I’d check every now and then for infertile panda eggs.
T: I see. So you’re always at the ready, huh?
G: Yeah, and I’m compiling a manual…
T: About the birds and bees?
G: Huh? Birds and bees?
T: Not birds and bees?
G: No, Easter Egg Search 101.
July 31st, 2009 at 4:37 pm
Fonsia-I was just reading your ZZ conversation (I’m gonna lose my job, if i don’t watch out!)….I was all teary, then when I got to the end, oh my gawsh! There goes the eye makeup….I am so honored, Fonsia. I know you are famous for your sweet conversations….BLESS YOU to think of me. I am so glad there are so many gals here loving Zhen Zhen, I get giddy when I see her name in everyone’s comments, she’s still in the forefront, in everyone’s thoughts. This makes me so happy. Thank you, thank you, Momma Bai, for giving us such a beautiful Zhennie, and thank you Momma Bai for giving us all something so joyful in anticipation of your new arrivals. It gives me happiness everyday, to know I can come here and share in all this furry wonder….
July 31st, 2009 at 5:01 pm
Kristi #42,
It may very well have something to do with the timing due to delayed implantation. If one cub implants a few days later than the other, it will not be as developed at the time of birth. If they implant together, they may well be equally developed – and thus both equally strong – at the time of birth. Ultrasound data over several pregnancies from several females could answer this question. Unfortunately, that data just doesn’t exist yet
Bai Yun did cooperate for a late afternoon ultrasound today, and Right Cub is looking good.
July 31st, 2009 at 5:15 pm
I am praying for one healthy cub – while BaI has been a wonderful Mom -it’s been one cubbie at a time. Can you see 2 XiLan’s or Tai’s chasing after a 18 year mommy.
#5 Fonsia – thanks – loved Miss Z’s conversation.
Will be glued to the cam all week-end.
July 31st, 2009 at 5:24 pm
I agree with most of you, one healthy, happy, rambunctious cub is fine with me. I am glad Bai hasn’t given birth yet, I would have hated to miss it (unless I am asleep). I had to run to the hospital today, my dad was admitted, nothing major, but it may be a couple weeks before he is home. I will probably miss the birthday celebrations on Monday because I will have to be at the hospital to hopefully get him checked out and into rehab. Is there anyway someone could record them and send the file to me??? The one on here is great but it goes by so quickly.
Tell Bai to take her time and enjoy all the extra special attention.
Moderator’s note: We’ll have video of the birthday celebration. Good luck with your father!
July 31st, 2009 at 5:26 pm
Thank you, Suzanne, for another informative and exciting update about Bai Yun. Although a twin birth doesn’t sound promising, I continue to hope for the best of all outcomes for Bai and her cub(s). Bai and nature know best so I am confident in whatever the outcome may be. Bai is beautiful and amazing and it is a joy to watch her. If only my tenuous internet connection will hold up periodically until she gives birth, I will be glad. It’s been a little bit awful when I can’t get my computer online to find out how Bai is doing.
I have to good-naturedly tease you a bit: we were asked to throw our guesses into the ring a week or so ago but you aren’t participating along with us!
Thank you again for including us in what you are learning about Bai and panda pregnancies in general. It is fascinating and awe-inspiring.
July 31st, 2009 at 5:36 pm
Kat W, I wrote it with you in mind. I know we have plenty of ZZ lovers here and the dialogue was for all of us, but I think you expressed even more angst and I did during the weaning. I wanted to portray her as she is–just fine (if not actually talkative).
But goodness! I’m not famous for my dialogues. That’s P. Wong, the inventor and master of the field! Actually, this one is probably the only one I’ll do.
Anyway, you’re welcome.
(Oh, and P. Wong, in your dialogue #61 you gave away your age! You must be about my age. How do I know? You know the nonsense words to the “Purple People Eater” song!
And you do wonderful stuff, #62 included! I always look forward to it. Apologies again for stealing your idea.)
July 31st, 2009 at 5:44 pm
Well, my thinking is like this: Bai has her first baby twin (right cub) first, then the second twin (left cub) will be able to develop alot more without the competition of the other twin, then that cub will be born in a couple of days or so. I have read from other well known sources that female pandas who have twins will usually give birth to the more healthy one first, then the second twin cub will be born in one, two, or five days later with no problems. So, this could be the case with Bai’s twin cubs right now. I will still hope and pray for both babies to be born successfully. You all do the same, ok? There’s always hope!
I did see Bai in her den this morning and late this afternoon on her back napping with that big arm over her face. Then, she left the den probably to bring more stuff in there for the nest. The cam has been on Gao munching on his dinner boo and Su Lin in her favorite napping corner. Gonna keep checking the cam pretty often tonite to watch Bai tonite.
Keep hope alive for the second twin, you all!!
Chari Mercier
St. Pete, FL
July 31st, 2009 at 6:05 pm
Why do pandas drag so much bamboo into their birthing den – seems like when Bai has a cub it will be hard to find!!
July 31st, 2009 at 6:08 pm
I’ve got a conversation going in my head! Well, here goes something!
Conversation with Su Lin #1:
Mr. Tourist: Hi, Su Lin!
Su Lin (waking up from a nap): Oh, Hi, Mr. Tourist!
T: I just had a conversation with your little sis, ZZ, and she’s happy that Momma Bai is having another cub.
SL: Oh, you did?
T: Yes, I did.
SL: Well, what did ZZ say?
T: She was happy about her mom having another cub.
SL: That’s good!
T: So, I wanted to know what you think about this!
SL: I’m happy, too! Will I get to see the new baby?
T: No, because the cub will be very small!
SL: OK!
T: What are you doing now?
SL: With Momma busy having a new baby cub, I am getting ready for my birthday party!
T: Oh? Your birthday coming up soon?
SL: Yes it is, and my little sis, ZZ, has her birthday coming up, too!
T: Will you be celebrating your birthdays together?
SL: No! We will have our birthday parties in our own yards, but we will have fun with good tasting ice cakes and presents!
T: I wish you and ZZ a very happy birthday!
SL: Thank You, Mr. Tourist! Now, ZZ and I have to get our beauty sleep and be ready for the big events!
T: Momma Bai’s new baby and your birthdays?
SL: Oh yes!
T: I will be here for everything! Good nite, Sweet Su!
SL: Good nite, Mr. Tourist!
Su Lin goes to her favorite napping spot for her beauty sleep!
Well, there’s my stab at panda and tourist conversation! Let me know what you all think, ok? Now, I’m going back on the pandacam to see if Bai is back on and in her den! Have a great weekend and nite nite, you all!
Chari Mercier
St. Pete, FL
July 31st, 2009 at 6:55 pm
Whatever Lady Bai does is fine by me. I just want her and cub or cubs to be healthy.
I was wondering — are you are 24 hour watch now?
July 31st, 2009 at 6:58 pm
Hi! I am a Polar Bear cam watcher and just starting to watch the Giant Pandas, as well, especially with Bai expecting any day now. I have seen her often in her new den she has made up, but right now she is in a room with some bamboo or palm fronds and a little door that is open to something. Can anyone explain where she is, right now, and what that door is for and why she isn’t presently in her den? Thank you! Newbie who is just a bit clueless, at the moment, to Pandas!
July 31st, 2009 at 7:22 pm
I had the SDZ cam and the Chiang Mai cams up at the same time. I watched Lin Hui pick up the cub and rest against the bars; then in came a hand — touching the cub — patting then feeling the cub all over. Then the hand felt and pressed Lin’s tummy. The hand was touching very lovingly and gently. It was amazing to watch. I’ve seen the hand before but never doing the “loving exam” before. Very interesting! Did anyone else see it? (7:15 pm Pacific time)
And I have a question for those who have visited Chengdu……..are the toddlers kept indoors when it rains? Seems to have been raining the last couple of days, and I’ve not seen anyone.
I didn’t mean to stray from our panda dance………..but I was just amazed at what I witnessed. Cuz Lady Bai is the priority!!!
July 31st, 2009 at 8:07 pm
dear friend suzanne, in your response to susie # 16, you said no one would be surprised if this would be bai’s last “litter.” can i hope that litter means more than one?
i have that new york “ya gotta believe” strength, at least i want to believe there will be healthy twins.
hoping m. bai feels all the love coming from all us humans from around the world.
thank you, suzanne for all the knowlege you offer, we so appreciate.
joan
painted post, n.y.
July 31st, 2009 at 8:21 pm
#41 Dianne I knew Ya Ya had a miscarriage this year and that this happen the first time also. I just didn’t go into detail about it. I was just stating we had two pandas that we were hoping would bless us with a cub and it was the Memphis and DC ones not the Altanta because Lun Lun still has her cub with her.
Sorry I didn’t make myself clear thanks for letting me know.
July 31st, 2009 at 9:21 pm
Conversation with Su Lin #9
Tourist: Hello, Su Lin.
Su Lin: Hello, Mr. Tourist.
T: So here you are back in familiar surroundings.
S: Yup, I really like the smells.
T: Oh, that’s right.
S: I get to meet Mama again this way.
T: And did she say anything?
S: She said her hormones got to her.
T: That’s so true. So what else do you smell?
S: I keep smelling other pandas.
T: So that may be Zhen Zhen.
S: Zhen Zhen?
T: Your sister.
S: I have a sister?
T: And some day you may meet at the Howdy Gate.
S: Really?
T: Yeah.
S: And by the way, you know what?
T: What?
S: I also found this tome…
T: You mean Gao Gao’s Easter Egg Search 101?
S: No, Introductory to the Birds and the Bees by Mallard and Family.
T: Well, it may be useful to you some day…
S: Should I share it with Zhen Zhen?
T: Well, it may help to explain your Mama’s to have a new baby.
S: Mama’s to have a new baby?
T: And someday you may, too.
S: Oh, neat! Congratulations, Mama!
July 31st, 2009 at 9:24 pm
Well I know we would all have liked twins but for Bai it is a matter of what she can handle and I suppose her body knows best. Do you think that the second cub develops initially as a kind of back up in case the first doesn’t make it? Then again you noted before that there doesn’t seem to be twins at all in the wild so what is it that is different in captivity that seems to cause this to happen more.
All we really want is a healthy cub and as good a mother as Bai is I don’t think she would be able to handle having two of them. Of course the staff would take the extra cub and try to work something out just as the Chinese do.
I’ve watched her getting the den ready and sleeping. She is storing up energy for that little cub and it is fascinating to watch the preparation. She knows the routine so well by now. Maybe she will give us another boy. Do we know if the male decides the sex as in humans?
Do you tell the Chinese when you have a pregnancy? I’m sure they are excited just as we are.
August 1st, 2009 at 3:09 am
Hi, everyone, as you can see I am still alive and as excited, as you all are, at Bai Yun and of course Gao Gao (who also had his part in the whole thing) having another cub or even cubs. Whatever it may be as long as he/she or they is/are healthy! My big, big thanks to all of you, both SDZ staff as well as you panda bloggers for keeping me updated. Sorry for having kept quiet for such a long time but within two months my mom-in-law as well as my mom passed away and I was just not in the mood for blogging. But now I am back, be sure of it and looking forward to joining in the fun and happiness with you! As much as excited I am at the same time I am a bit sad knowing that “our” Fu Long will have to leave his mommy and daddy close to winter time to relocate to China. So I will grab the opportunity to visit him again before he leaves. He has developed into a wonderful bear and with his parents’ genes he will certainly be a good addition to the gene pool in his homeland. Fonsia and P. Wong, marvellous conversations as usual! Suzanne Hall, you are super for keeping us abreast of all the happenings in Bai Yun’s den. I keep my fingers crossed that everything will go well for Bai and all of you and hope that I will be able to witness Bai’s birth, mind you the time difference is a problem.
Moderator’s note: Welcome back, Ruth!
August 1st, 2009 at 8:11 am
pooey, i was hoping for twins! Oh well, 1 is good enough! I’m so proud of Bai Yun!
August 1st, 2009 at 8:26 am
I awoke this morning to a big, fat, noisy robin sitting on my bedroom windowsill and pecking on the glass. Now (in my grown-up mind) I know he probably was arguing with his reflection. However, in that groggy stupor I find myself in when first wakened (child-like mind), I actually felt like he was trying to tell me something important. No, I don’t drink (except, perhaps, a glass of wine to celebrate the birth of a new cub in the world)! My child-like mind caused me to rush to the computer to check on Bai. Obviously, the robin didn’t know what he was talking about!! Everything seems to be going along as Mother Nature intended. I will stay tuned to all of you and the zoo to give me accurate and timely info. Isn’t it a joyful and child-like feeling at times like this? Any critter is welcome in my heart.
Hmmmmm…..do you suppose that robin was trying to tell me about a joyful event in HIS nest?
August 1st, 2009 at 9:00 am
suzanne–you are such a big help to us at this time, thank you so much for taking all the time/trouble to go thru these many blogs and make helpful comments and answer questions!! appreciated by all!
friday wasn’t the day, maybe today, Bai is floating in and eating bamboo in the den now, funny to watch! also looking down, resting, throwing it up (to hide from us??); she does this to sort thru it, i know. this won’t come out until big busy monday, but it helps to write as we await the appearance of this special baby animal! i’ve made another donation to PI for the cub formula fund, as they are being born right and left (twins need formula for when swapped away from mom!) in China, also that Mao Mao tee is great, i am wearing my 1st one out! Go Bai, go baby cub!!
August 1st, 2009 at 9:07 am
Suzanne – I would like to thank you for the constant updates on Bai and her cub(s) condition. I know the staff is very busy with the 24 hour watch. I just want you to know how much we appreciate all the info and the education you continue to give us!!
Those of us who are mothers and grandmothers think we are dealing with a family member!!! I can not imagine how close you feel to her, Gao and her cubs!
August 1st, 2009 at 9:51 am
One cub or two cubs, what matters most is that they are all healthy.
Thank you so much for the update, Suzanne! Maybe the next one will be the announcement of a cub(s)?! =)
August 1st, 2009 at 10:13 am
I am beyond excited that we may actually see the birth of Bai’s little angel. If she does deliver 2 cubs and only cares for one, would the staff remove one and care for it like they do in China? That seems to be fairly common there what with the artificial insemination. Whatever happens, I think Bai is amazing! How did a Panda born in her situation ever learn to be such an incredible mother? I can’t wait to see her and her new one in person. How long is it until a new cub is normally put on display?
August 1st, 2009 at 12:55 pm
mother nature will be the deciding factor here I presume. we would all love to see twins but, it is not the usual thing or the easiest thing for the mama bears! just so we get a healthy little bundle of fluff and bai is okay after giving birth again. we will all rejoice!!! it is now the big waiting game all you pandaholics. we can hardly stand it! sooner than later we all say! we have to just keep tuning in and watching our moniters all day when we can. maybe tomorrow………………………………………?????????
August 1st, 2009 at 2:00 pm
#60 Ruth welcome back to this crazy panda blog
. So sorry to hear about your loses I too have went though this it is not easy. Here’s hoping Bai big advent will cheer you up and reading these blogs from all the panda fan will keep you busy.
August 1st, 2009 at 2:42 pm
Just wondering…..are the cubs stronger or more viable when held (for lack of a better word) in the uterus for longer than what is expected? Don’t know if there is even a study on this. I know they are all “butter sticks” at birth, but are the longer gestated cubs, more developed at birth?
August 1st, 2009 at 2:49 pm
#55 Linda – what is the url for the Chiang Mai cam? (I can’t seem to read the the Chinese very well!)
This is all so very exciting! I’m very glad I have two monitors at work – Bai Yun is always up on my second monitor in hopes that I catch the big event! What are the definite signs of labor?
August 1st, 2009 at 3:25 pm
#60 – Ruth – welcome back – sorry to hear about you mom & mother-in-law> I can’t believe your Fu Long is old enough to return to China. Guess we are lucky to have our pandas for a while longer.
Still watching & waiting.
August 1st, 2009 at 3:38 pm
I’m going for an August 3-4 birth. =)
August 1st, 2009 at 5:07 pm
It is 8 o’clock eastern time and Lady Bai looks like she is resting comfortably in her den. Great to read all the comments.
Suzanne- Since Bai is a more mature pregnant panda, is the staff providing any nutritional supplements to her? Thank you for all of the updates.
August 1st, 2009 at 5:32 pm
Ruth, I am sorry for your loss. I, too, hope the birth of a cubbie eases the pain at least a little. I am thinking we will have a cub tomorrow, Aug 2nd. Chari, I enjoyed your conversation.
August 1st, 2009 at 5:35 pm
Coversation between Right Cub and Dr. Meg:
Dr. M: OK Bai, here comes the cool gel! Let’s see, hmmm….ah, here we are.
Right Cub: hee hee, it’s that tickle thing!
Dr. M: There you are, I see your little claws and you’re looking very cute! Aren’t you ready to come out and meet us yet?
RC: hee hee, you don’t know how ticklish I am! but it’s so cozy in here, floating and wiggling and swimming.
Dr. M: But darling cub, you’re just about finished with this phase, your mama is so eager to cuddle you and you’ll love her warm fur and delicious milk!
RC: hee hee, this tickles so much! wiggle, wiggle, Well, I may as well let go of this and see what the world out there looks like…
Dr. M: Yes do! You’ll love it here at the San Diego Zoo where pandas are treated like celebrities and get all kinds of wonderful treats and attention, trees to climb and hammocks, and cool crunchy bamboo when they’re older from our great new cooler all your fans helped us get. Wouldn’t you like to come out very soon?
RC: ok, it would be nice to meet my mama and get a nice bit of supper, and I am just a little tired of swimming… packing up the placenta and shipping out….Wheeeeeeeeee…..
HELLO CUB! Welcome to your world, you picked the BEST PLACE to come to!
August 1st, 2009 at 5:53 pm
Mommy Bai is back in the nursery. She sits and looks and stares and looks down again, is she looking for the babies? She’s scratching at the floor or the bamboo or something. I’ve never seen her do this…..???? Now she’s laying down and pushing bamboo over herself. What are the exact signs you look for when it is TIME for babies to come? Looks like she is trying to dig a hole and lay in it….. I don’t want to miss the births…
Thank you again, Fonsia! (I wouldn’t still feel bad if Zhennie could at least visit her sister, or see another panda..)
Mommy Bai is now resting with her arm wrapped around a big chunk of bamboo….security blanket, maybe?
August 1st, 2009 at 8:06 pm
I find this whole process of panda birth totally amazing and I thank SDZ for being my window. I wish
I knew I had this passion 35 yrs ago. See ya in 5 weeks!
August 1st, 2009 at 8:09 pm
I love all the conversations! Keep them coming!
ZZ looks so little to me tonight (8:00 pm Pacific). What an absolute doll-baby.
Welcome back, Ruth. So sorry for your sorrows.
Heidi, I followed the link to the Chiang Mai website through pandasliveon. I haven’t been successful in getting the google translator to work on the updates. And be sure to follow the link to the Chengdu site; what a treat to watch the toddlers.
No Bai tonite? I’m not sure I’d want the world to watch me feeling pregnant FOR THE CUB(S?) I’M HAVING ON AUGUST 5TH.
August 1st, 2009 at 8:31 pm
Since I haven’t seen Bai tonight, I’ve been watching the Chiang mai cam…………the baby is trying to walk. While most of the cam work isn’t that great, but tonight it was up close and personal on the cubbie. SO CUTE ………trying to get the legs working ………….getting TIRED turning around in a circle ……..front legs working better than the back. Darling.
August 1st, 2009 at 8:37 pm
Ruth – so glad you are back in time for all the excitement. My condolences to you and your family.
August 1st, 2009 at 8:57 pm
Pam T., #57…S’ok, Pam. Sometimes I feel rather defensive for Ya Ya because she is so timid and doesn’t get a lot of attention, and sometimes what she gets is kinda negative. I think she should get some private quarters during that time to sort of calm down. I get defensive for Mei Xiang too, cuz I don’t think she had a real good chance to get pregnant this year. I thought that whole thing was kind of like a fiasco. I was horrified at what went down with Tian Tian. Some of these poor gals just can’t hold up to the acclaim that Lun Lun and Bai Yun get…AND DESERVE! Anyway, no hard feelings, and none intended to you. Hope you’re having a great weekend.
August 2nd, 2009 at 12:02 am
Thank you, moderator as well as # 68 Pam and #71 Maureen for your sympathy. You are very right, the big event is going to cheer me up! It is great to join the team of you pandaholics again. Unfortunately, Vienna Zoo does not have a live cam like the U.S. zoos. I guess, at this part of the world people are not as devoted panda lovers as at your side, what a pity. Mind you, there were lots of visitors at Schoenbrunn last year and the year before when Fu Long was a baby. But it seems that the hype has been vanishing. I was so hoping that Yang Yang and Long Hui would have a baby again this year since they did mate in April or so. But so far nothing. Yes, Fu Long will have to go, sobb……. So, let’s wait for “your” panda baby(ies), good luck and thanks for taking such good care of “our” pandas.
August 2nd, 2009 at 12:24 am
Marti, OR! You’ve got the Mao Mao tee. I’ve got one too and been wearing it everywhere, love it. Watching Bai every minute I can.
August 2nd, 2009 at 12:31 am
#54 Debi in MA nice to see you on the Panda Cam. You can feel the excitement! I just posted on the Polar Cam a short while ago. This is my first baby panda from before birth, so I’m learning too. Have fun.
August 2nd, 2009 at 4:40 am
Ruth (#60). Am so sorry for your losses. It must have been a really tough time for you and your family. But let me join in welcoming you back. We have missed you and your lovely posts about Fu Long and his family. I’m sure the folks in Vienna will miss him when he returns to China. But if he goes to Chengdu, he will be in a beautiful place. They take very good care of their pandas.
Thanks, Suzanne, for keeping us panda nuts informed about Bai’s pregnancy.
AND .. Happy Birthday, Sweet Su. You are so gorgeous and so your brother’s sister.
August 2nd, 2009 at 7:55 am
Sun., Aug. 2: HAPPY 4TH BIRTHDAY, SU LIN!!!!!!
Hope your day will be nice, quiet, fun, and full of good bamboo to eat! Birthday party tomorrow with ZZ!
Just saw the pandacam, and Bai Yun was laying down in the room near her den door. The den looks like it has been stocked full of shredded bamboo for her nest because alot of it is sticking out of the den door! She’s still keeping us in suspense as to when she’ll deliver those babies.
Well, gonna go for now. Will keep checking pandacam and watching Bai thoughout the day and nite!
Chari Mercier
St. Pete, FL
August 2nd, 2009 at 8:39 am
Went back on the cam, and it switched from the den area to Miss ZZ! She was sitting facing the cam eating a large stalk of boo and shredding it like a pro! She’s very good at stripping that large stalk using one paw to eat it and the other paw to hold the large stalk with. Plus, there was a nice large burlap sack in front of her that no doubt had some kind of scent in it for her to smell. Wouldn’t be surprised if she used it as a nap mat! Great closeup of ZZ, meerkat cam workers! Will be back later on to check on Bai.
Chari Mercier
St. Pete, FL
August 2nd, 2009 at 9:44 am
H A P P Y B I R T H D A Y , S U L I N.
May you have many more.
August 2nd, 2009 at 11:51 am
Suzanne, Once again, thank you for this great update on Mama Bai, I am just praying for a healthy cub, or cubs, which ever it will be. And for Mommy to be OK. I am still hoping for the 4th, my birthday, but, will be watching like everyone else. Loved the Mr. Tourest conversations. I love both the young Panda’s, but, must admit a soft spot for Su lin, she was my first to see born, and I did see her in person, when visiting the SDZ. Little ZZ is adorable too, I am sorry I never got to go to the Zoo, last time I was out there, but, next time I want to go and see all of them. I pray we can keep our Su Lin, but, I know she is going to be four, and that we will have to see.
Good luck Mama Bai, get plenty of rest, you are going to need it.
August 2nd, 2009 at 12:07 pm
HAPPY BIRTHDAY SU LIN. I love you!!
August 2nd, 2009 at 1:11 pm
I have been reading all the comments so far and i have to say that i never heard of the fact that if pandas have twins, one coming one day and the possible other coming another day or week later…this is news to me!! I guess this is possible in the animal kingdom. And i thought i’ve read all about their lives..(i guest i have to keep reading about these wonderful pandas) Congrats!! Again Lady Bai and Gao-Gao.. One healthy cub is fine but i will keep my fingers crossed that the other one shows up on the ultasound..I really enjoyed the conversations with all pandas (Has anyone had a conversation with mom?)..i am glued to the cam as much as possible.. On a seperate note HAPPY BIRTHDAY SU LIN !! I am almost sure those 2(Su-Lin and ZZ will meet @the howdy gate) Keepers are doing a wonderful fulfiling job (I wish I could be so lucky) i hope to visit Real Soon.. RG
August 2nd, 2009 at 1:34 pm
I forgot to ask a ? to the moderater or one of the bloggers,,if tai and su lin go to china, since they are the same age,could they get together,are they related,does it not matter? I read somewhere Bai Yun and Mei Xiang are related somewhere along the line?? Cousins maybe??
August 2nd, 2009 at 1:43 pm
#81 Dianne – I know just what you mean about Ya Ya! I think she is the sweetest thing with the most distinguishable features and I also feel that she is overlooked. I guess it’s because the Memphis Zoo doesn’t provide the easy access that the other zoos do. I feel so bad for her and LeLe and the keepers there and I really really hope that she will be able to have a successful pregnancy very soon.
And I agree about Mei Xiang, too. The poor thing just had such an unexpected early estrus. Hopefully next year will be better. I would so love for Tai to have a sibling.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, SU LIN!!!!
August 2nd, 2009 at 1:45 pm
Tomorrow is going to be so exciting! Zhen and Su will be munching ice cake! The weather should provide an opportunity for slurpy melting, and I’m hoping the ice will be colored bright pink
And, after watching Dear Bai today, I am wondering if the birthday celebration will be even larger! Could be…. 
Will we all be singing “Happy Birthday” all day long? Only Momma Bai knows for sure. 
August 2nd, 2009 at 1:55 pm
Happy 4th Birthday, sweet Su Lin! You were my first newborn panda and I have loved you since I first set eyes on you. Can’t believe the years have gone by so fast. You are so beautiful, smart, and healthy–thanks to everyone at SDZ who made this day possible.
August 2nd, 2009 at 2:25 pm
rhonda#91,,,Our most amenable guide Suzanne, of all things momma and cub, said the longest time between cub births was 566 mins. or 9.4 hours. There is no record of a cub being born a week after the first birth. Or even days. It would be a wonderful thing if Bai’s left cub survived this birth, but ultrasounds have lost view of it. I wouldn’t be surprised if we are blessed with one cub. And what a blessing that is!
August 2nd, 2009 at 2:34 pm
Happy birthday SU LIN
August 2nd, 2009 at 2:40 pm
I just want to wish the 2 little ones, Su Lin and ZhenZhen, (both names that I helped pick!!) a very Happy Birthday. The best present of all will be a healthy brother or sister and a Mom that pulls thru with no complications. Enjoy your Birthday Ice Cakes too cuz they are also a great gift.
August 2nd, 2009 at 2:59 pm
Just looked in at the camera (Sunday 2:58 PDT) and saw the entrance to the den. Impressive what Bai has constructed.
August 2nd, 2009 at 3:03 pm
Dear Suzanne, have you mentioned this before, and i just missed it…what determines whether or not Zhennie and Sui Lin meet at the howdy gate? Your info is very much appreciated.
August 2nd, 2009 at 3:04 pm
p.s. hope you’re feeling good, Momma Bai, I remember the night I was in labor, it’s lonely and scary…be brave and take deep breaths…..we are praying for you and the little ones. oxo
August 2nd, 2009 at 3:40 pm
Happy Birthday SuLin-We did get to see you as a cubett high in a tree!!
Still watching & waiting – though signs are looking good for tomorrow (maybe):)
August 2nd, 2009 at 4:00 pm
I was going to attempt a conversation with our BIRTHDAY GIRL, but thought better of it! So I will just say, Happy Birthday, you little bit of something cute. You will always be my screen saver. While I watched Tai from the day after his birth, I was with you from the beginning. You will always be my precious panda.
While I know we love all of our “adopted American” pandas, it’s difficult to watch the Memphis Zoo cam — many times it’s not up, and often if it is up, there is no panda visible. I kid by saying that I almost saw a panda “move” on their cam. (Love, love their sleeping positions!) It’s kinda hard to “connect” with them. I would give my eye teeth to be able to see them in person, and I feel badly that they seem to get left out. At ZA, Mei Lan and Yang are not getting much cam time because of the XMan. Mei Lan certainly was the star there for a long time. I think NZ does a great job with their two cams and newsletters. But there is NO zoo who does the cam work, communication and is more viewer friendly than SDZ. You seem to cater to us. And I believe you’ve done a lot to educate the public about our dear pandas. ZZ’s video is a great example. I want to thank you for everything you’ve done, and I bet if the pandas could tell you, they’d give you a BIG thank you, and the girls would share their cakes with you.
August 2nd, 2009 at 4:08 pm
Happy Birthday, Su Lin . I’ll be watching you as you receive your “cake” !! Have a great day !!
August 2nd, 2009 at 4:08 pm
HAPPY 4TH BIRTHDAY TO BEAUTIFUL SU LIN sorry you won’t get your ice cake till tomorrow but I hope you enjoy every bit.
August 2nd, 2009 at 4:21 pm
WELL NOW TO WISH ANOTHER BEAUTIFUL LITTLE GIRL ZHEN ZHEN A HAPPY 2ND BIRTHDAY. I hope you also enjoy your wonderful ice cake and get many presents with great new enrichments.
Much love to both the Birthday girls and their mom and dad
August 2nd, 2009 at 4:33 pm
Happy Birthday, sweet Su Lin! She is my favorite SDZ panda child. I think she possesses her papa’s playful charm. Can’t wait to see her with her cake tomorrow!
My August 1 prediction for a cub is officially past, so I am out of the running! Now I hope for the 4th so the cub can have his or her own unique bearday!
Bai is a beautiful panda mom-to-be and it’s good to see that she is doing well. We all want the best for her in this stage of her life.
#81 Dianne…I completely understand. All the bears are wonderful and have their own special, fabulous qualities. All contribute to the science of saving and understanding giant pandas, even when things don’t work out according to the typical measuring stick of success (a cub). I hope Ya Ya will have her day in the spotlight soon, cub or not. She’s already in the spotlight in my heart.
And Mei Xiang…I adore her and stick up for her as her surrogate mother bear! LOL
August 2nd, 2009 at 5:10 pm
Happy Birthday Su Lin! I LOVE you pretty girl. I hope you have a wonderful year and all the years to come.
Thank you so much for all you will do to save your species.
LOVE ALWAYS,
Kristi
a.k.a “pandalover4ever”
August 2nd, 2009 at 5:26 pm
The impending cub birth is just so exciting! I am anxiously awaiting with all you panda fans. I wanted to ask the keepers if adding another panda will exceed what your current facilities can handle for housing them? Will you still be moving the girls Su and Zhennie around the different enclosures?
August 2nd, 2009 at 5:34 pm
Wistful thinking here… but 5:30 pm on Sunday… Gao Gao is in his bedroom – white wall, not terribly comfortable looking furniture… I had to chuckle – made me think of ‘the old days’ in the hospital when the expectant dads had to stay in the waiting room! So, Gao Gao is in the ‘panda waiting room’… chomping on a bamboo cigars (maybe chopping all the bamboo up into cigars to hand out!).
Here’s hoping his ‘wait’ isn’t TOO long (our’s either!).
August 2nd, 2009 at 6:25 pm
It’s 6:20 p.m. on the 2nd and the camera is on Bai’s room just outside the den. She is sleeping in the doorway to the outer room. There is a very huge pile of shredded bamboo sticking out of the den doorway. If she were to have her cub(s) now, she’d never find them! Housekeeping please.
August 2nd, 2009 at 7:22 pm
I was watching Bai Yun earlier today and she was almost completely buried in her bamboos she has brought into the den to nest with. It looks like it is currently stacked as high as the door with her nest material. Will Bai let you near it to remove the excess? The reason I was wondering is because it looks like a cub could get lost in there and also make it hard for y’all to see the baby on the cams. In the event the twin is born how would you retrieve it with all that nest material?
August 2nd, 2009 at 7:42 pm
Happy Birthday Zhen Zhen! You are a precious little lady panda! I hope your mommy will give you a present of a little brother or sister soon. I hope you and your big sis will have fun with your fruity cakes and other special enrichment toys today. Thank you Zhennie for your precious little life. I’m proud of you and all you will do to increase the numbers of your species. I LOVE YOU ZHENNIE!!! Enjoy your special day!
August 2nd, 2009 at 11:47 pm
Per request by Rhonda:
A Visit with Mom
Tourist: Good morning, Ms. Bai Yun.
Bai Yun: Good morning, good day, and how are you?
T: Just great. Have you had a good day?
BY: Oh, yes, absolutely amazing. I am decorating my den and awaiting a very special guest. I am so excited.
T: When are you expecting your special guest?
BY: Any moment now…I hope before the 5th. But then travel schedules are so unpredictable these days. So I just prepare and wait for that special knock.
T: Well, I mustn’t delay your preparations since it is getting close to the 5th. Perhaps I might call another day and see if your special guest has arrived.
BY: Oh, yes, please do. I do love visitors… I love to laugh and play around. Perhaps we could all join in with my special guest and welcome them to my home. Please do call again.
T: Thank you Bai Yun for the invitatation. I will make my plans today to join you and your special guest in a few days.
August 3rd, 2009 at 3:31 am
So sorry I didn’t wish you a Happy 4th Birthday yesterday, Su Lin. Have some extra kisses and I know you will love your cake today.
Zhen Zhen – Happy 2nd Birthday to you, and hope you get lots of presents.
I shall be there on the dot of 9am (5pm here) awaiting all the fun and games and the messy cake for both of you.
August 3rd, 2009 at 4:25 am
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, ZHEN ZHEN (aka The Zoomer). You have grown into such an independent and confident panda. Hope you and Su enjoy your birthday celebrations. Thanks SDZ for helping us celebrate with them.
August 3rd, 2009 at 6:05 am
HAPPY BIRTHDAY to both the girls. Hope you two enjoy the festivities today!
I see Bai is resting in her den, still keeping us all guessing. Can’t wait for the little one to arrive.
August 3rd, 2009 at 6:16 am
HAPPY BIRTHDAY ZZ!!! I can’t beleive you are already TWO!!! I can still “see” you zipping around as a baby panda – and now look at you!! Enjoy your cake today. I hope I can watch the festivities and not be in a meeting – watching you eat cake is a LOT more important!! Have a wonderful day – and who knows – your baby sister/brother will make an entrance today!!
August 3rd, 2009 at 6:55 am
Thank you everybody for your concern and your welcoming me back into the “crazy panda family”; I was really touched. #75 Marti the conversation between the vet and the Right Cub was soooo cute!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, ZHEN ZHEN AND BELATED HAPPY BIRTHDAY, SU LIN! I was under the impression that you were both born on 3rd August. Apart from Mommy Bai soon giving birth to a brother/sister or both you sure will have kept your keepers on their feet singing you a birthday song and supplying you with birthday cakes. I hope that you two will appreciate their spoiling you!
Currently Bai Yun is lying in her den and it looks as if it won’t take so much longer before the big event. Hopefully I am right! Good luck, Bai Yun, I know you are such an experienced mom by now.
August 3rd, 2009 at 7:06 am
I haven’t posted here in a long time, but I’ve stayed up-to-date by everyone else’s posts. Thank you all for that. I am so excited about the birth of another cub!!! Today and/or tomorrow seems just about right (based on Bai’s history). Anyway, just wanted to drop a note and say “HI” to all the other panda addicts out there. Nail biting will continue on this end until we see the birth of another healthy cub. Can’t wait!
August 3rd, 2009 at 7:52 am
Ruth, #60, I am sorry for your losses. Losing both mothers in such a short time is a very heavy burden. I am glad you are recovered enough to check in our your beloved pandas. May GOD comfort you and your family in your sorrow.
Is Fu Long still with his parents or have his parents “moved on and left him behind?” If he is still with his mother, it will be difficult to make the total transition when he completely moves to China. I hope he will do as well in his separation as the SDZ, NZP, and ZA pandas have done in theirs.
This coming winter will be a sad one for all of us, as Su Lin, Mei Lan, and possibly Tai Shan will also we heading to China. The time has come for them to complete their maturing into adult pandas by going to their ancestral homeland to continue their bloodlines and gene pools. It helps to know that there is one, and possibly two cubs on the way at SDZ, and the Xi Lan will still be here. However, it will be his turn to be weaned from Lun Lun in late winter as well. Life moves on, and so must we.
August 3rd, 2009 at 7:58 am
Bai Yun looks so peaceful and at home in her resting in her den. She looks so comfortable in her special surroundings where only she and her tiny cubs have lived. Does she cuddle objects like Mei Xiang does toward the end of her pregnancy? I have been watching of late to see, and in the especially great complete view of her in the den this morning, it looks as if she is holding a cub under her chin in her forearm. But since there is no posting of news of a cub, my guess is that she is either craddling an object or just folded her forearm under her chin for more comfort. She sure is one beautiful panda, and doesn’t look like an old dam at all. She looks pleasantly round as she should with her impending birth(s).
Great job, SDZ panda staff, in preparing her for this historic moment.
August 3rd, 2009 at 8:05 am
Happy birthday little Zhen Zhen
August 3rd, 2009 at 8:14 am
What a shot of Bai right now. Still doing the panda dance!! Does Bai cuddle a kong toy or drain grate like Mai Xiang did?
August 3rd, 2009 at 8:18 am
Happy Birthday Su Lin and Zhen Zhen!
August 3rd, 2009 at 8:34 am
Monday, Aug. 3: HAPPY 2ND BIRTHDAY TO MISS ZHEN ZHEN (aka: ZZ, Zoom Zoom)!!!!! Hope your day is filled with fun, presents, and a great ice cake to eat! Also looking forward to your mom, Bai, having her new baby any hour or day now!
Looked in on Bai in her den, and she’s rolled up trying to take a nap. My guess is that she could be starting labor. I’m going back on the cam to keep an eye on her. I’ll also be watching Miss Su and Miss ZZ having their birthday parties today on the cam. Fun day for everyone!
Chari Mercier
St. Pete, FL
PS: There are 2 more panda birthday for the “kids” coming up at Atlanta Zoo. Miss Mei Lan will be 3 years old on September 6, and Xi Lan the Xman will be an amazing ONE year old on August 30! Xi is an amazing miracle considering the very rough start to his first few days a year ago. Look how far he’s come since then! That’s why he’s an amazing, miracle cub!
August 3rd, 2009 at 8:45 am
Happy birthday to Su Lin and Zhen Zhen. Enjoy your special day(s) as we all eagerly await the birth of your little brother or sister (or two!).
August 3rd, 2009 at 8:54 am
I knew mama Bai will not fail us, she will give us one and possible two US cubs. I am very excited, and jumping up and down with joy.
Happy Birthday to the two sweet hearts, Su Lin and ZZ.
August 3rd, 2009 at 9:02 am
Happy birthday Su Lin and Zhen Zhen. Have fun eating your b’day cakes. i m waiting to see you on the cam its noon here in Va. also waiting for your little bro or sis. have a good day.
August 3rd, 2009 at 9:03 am
#121 Margaret, thank you for your condolences. It was a bit rough during the last couple of months but life goes on and it feels so good to be “part of you pandaholics” again. Nice to know that people so far away do care about me! So far Fu Long has still been with Yang Yang, his mom. This was in June when I went to visit them. To my knowledge Long Hui has not been allowed to get together with Fu Long despite the fact that the Schoenbrunn staff had intended to try it out at one stage. It is amazing at all that Yang Yang and Long Hui have always been together until Fu Long’s birth. I wonder if there is another panda couple that is living together. Once the local summer holidays are over I shall visit Schoenbrunn again and will certainly tell you what’s “cooking” in Vienna. It is sad to know that a few pandas will have to leave their birth place this year but then…. that is their destiny. And as long as it helps the panda population to survive and perhaps even increase this sacrifice is minor. We panda lovers all know that pandas in Wolong etc. are being taken good care of. However, it is hard to leave one’s family, even for panda bears. On a happier note, I am glued to the web cam and hope that I will be able to witness Bai Yun giving birth.
August 3rd, 2009 at 9:05 am
August 3rd, 2009 at 9:06 am
Happy 2nd Birthday, Little Zhen Zhen!! Enjoy your day andyour”cake”.
August 3rd, 2009 at 9:15 am
Rhonda #92 – Tai Shan and Su Lin are cousins. Bai Yun and Tian Tian are brother and sister, offspring of the great Pan Pan. Also, Mei Lan is related to Tai Shan. Mei Xiang and Lun Lun have the same mother, Lin Nan.
Margaret #121 – A Pandas Unlimited member just got back from Vienna and posted photos of Fu Long and his mom. They are still together. They are posted under her userid saulesmeit.
August 3rd, 2009 at 9:15 am
Happy Birthday Su Lin and Zhennie!
August 3rd, 2009 at 9:17 am
Happy birthdays, Su Lin and Zhennie! Oooh ZZ found the cake, and now she’s found a box!
And Marti #75–great conversation with Dr. Meg and Right Cub. Great conversations all around
August 3rd, 2009 at 9:22 am
Kudos to the ‘cake makers’!!!!! The cakes are absolutely spectacular – very cute and feminine (colors)!
Back to the watching fun!
August 3rd, 2009 at 9:29 am
Su Lin has a beautiful birthday cake this morning. Very creative and fun for her to enjoy! HAPPY 4th BIRTHDAY!
August 3rd, 2009 at 9:38 am
Happy Birthday Su Lin and Zhen Zhen..enjoy your special day! Beautiful cakes by the way, I love the pink, blue, yellow and green on them…the perfect cakes for our two princesses
August 3rd, 2009 at 9:44 am
I am watching the birthday parties, how sweet! Happy birthday to the girls. Congratulations to the keepers who froze the cakes and take great care of our favourite bears all over the year. A BIG THANK YOU to the meerkats for the great cam work and the lovely close ups.
August 3rd, 2009 at 9:46 am
Happy Birthday Zhen Zhen and Su Lin!! My wish is that both of you get to stay in the United States for many more birthdays.
August 3rd, 2009 at 9:46 am
Happy birthday to our two big sister panda girls, Su Lin and Zhen Zhen! Thanks to the meerkats for their outstanding camera work. The girls certainly are enjoying their cakes and presents.
Now, back to Bai Yun and baby watch…
August 3rd, 2009 at 9:47 am
AWESOME cakes SDZ staff!!! Looked so good I would have tried to get ZZ to share with me!! GREAT JOB!! And thanks for sharing with us how these girls are enjoying them!!
August 3rd, 2009 at 9:51 am
Happy, happy birthday to two of my favorite girls – Su and ZZ!! Much love! Hope you enjoy your cakes and presents!
August 3rd, 2009 at 9:56 am
Happy Birthday, Zhen Zhen!
The ice cakes are gorgeous! Hats off to the great people who lovingly and painstakingly created them. They are so pretty! I am in awe of how beautiful and intricate they are. The cake creators must get a lot of enjoyment from watching the bears explore and enjoy what they made. As a person who loves to bake and create, I wish I had a bear or two and a giant freezer so I would have an excuse to learn to make ice cakes.
Su Lin reminds me more and more of Gao. It depends on the angle a lot, but sometimes I can see that tender little rescued bear in China (young Gao) when I look at Su. It is very touching and heartwarming. It is great to see both panda girls enjoying their birthdays! Thanks for allowing us to cyber-celebrate with them!
August 3rd, 2009 at 10:02 am
Boy what beautiful birthday cakes for our girls, the Zoo staff did a great job on them thank you. I also want to thank the cam operators they done a wonderful job too. I think Su Lun and Zhen Zhen were in heaven and wondering that was going on that they were so special today. What a wonderful time they were having.
I got lots of postcard shoots and then I got out my camera and took a zillion pictures that way I didn’t miss anything. The picture are not totally perfect but good enough for me to have great memories of this day.
Thank You Panda Staff
August 3rd, 2009 at 10:17 am
Happy Birthday to my favorite girls, both of you have grown so fast and becone beautiful young ladies. hope you both enjoy your birthday cakes and all the special treats. Bai I’m hoping for today but by the end of the week will be okay also, I’ll rearrange my plans for you, I want to be there when they name your cubbie in November.
August 3rd, 2009 at 10:21 am
Kudos to your staff that is in charge of making the cakes. They are awesome!! Can anyone tell us what is in the blue boxes? ZZ even has a blue nose now..
Moderator’s note: We’re passing along all of the cake compliments from our readers to our forage warehouse crew. Thank you!
August 3rd, 2009 at 10:22 am
Happy birthday Su and Zhen! Watching you with your cakes is a kick. You’ll be expecting an ice block every day! What fun
August 3rd, 2009 at 10:23 am
Meerkats, you’re doing us proud with the fantastic close-ups. I think Su Lin fancies herself as a prima donna ballerina on top of the cake!
The cakes are fantastic, as ever and I am also going back to the cams for even more photos.
August 3rd, 2009 at 10:36 am
Big kudos to the staff who created the birthday cakes. Great job!!!!!!!!!!
August 3rd, 2009 at 10:38 am
HAPPY BIRTHDAY ZhenZhen and SuLin!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Love Lowenna
Hia ZhenZhen and Sulin. from Anya
we are watching you constantly from the cams by the way we are twins identical no-one can tell us apart.
we love pandas and when we are older we will adopt both of you!!! (we hope our grandparents will give us the money!!!).
I love the cakes they are just soooooooooooooooo cool!!!!!!
We wish we could come to America right now and watch you for hours on end but we are stuck down here in little old England in the cold wet weather!!!
we really hope baiyun has her twins sucsesfully, if they are twins!
Well we will see you soon by camera!!!
Byie Bye
From both of us,
Yours Truly,
Lowenna,
Anya!!!
xxxx
P.S i have a panda teddy named after zhenzhen love lowenna
bye!
August 3rd, 2009 at 10:41 am
It looks like Zhen Zhen is using her cake as a jungle gym!! Unexpected Panda enrichment!!
August 3rd, 2009 at 10:44 am
My compliments to the staff who created these exquisite l cakes. They are so pretty and pink, and perfect for two special girls!
August 3rd, 2009 at 10:53 am
What a treat for all of us today!!!!!!! Happy Birthday to you both. I love you BUNCHES! Love the cakes as well. Have been watch ZZ———she thinks it is a carnival ride. LOL
August 3rd, 2009 at 10:54 am
At last ZZ has demolished the beautiful cake so that she could get those BIG pieces of bamboo. Way to go, you smart little bear!
August 3rd, 2009 at 10:55 am
I am sitting here watching little ZZ tearing apart her cake, and believe me she did a good job, prior to that, I was watching Su Lin doing a number on hers, also, tearing into boxes, and her nose was blue. I want to wish them both Happy Birthday, it is so hard to believe that my little Su Lin is 4yrs old, and her baby sister is 2yrs old. And here we are waiting for the next one. Mommy seems to be resting and getting ready to produce pretty soon.
I wish we could have duel cameras, so we could watch both the girls with their birthday cakes.
Thanks Keepers for what you do.
August 3rd, 2009 at 10:58 am
Great work SDZ as always!! STUPENDOUS cakes, I’m copying and pasting like mad to get this down!
Hilarious to see both sisters do the same things, especially the climbing (very sturdy!) and spinning around and straddling! HIGHLY entertaining, bet it’s a huge media event down there (envy)…
ZZ wanted those huge stalks holding the top 2 tiers and she got them! What a girl…And both were so very playful rolling around and getting muddy in the melting puddles!
Guess mama didn’t want to eclipse bigger daughter Su and maybe is holding off till ZZ’s had her day too.
Happy Birthday girls! You are so treasured, both ‘precious’!
August 3rd, 2009 at 11:08 am
ZZ’s cake is great too! She loves it. The Panda Cam is perfect on occasions like today. Thanks for letting us have a front row seat!
August 3rd, 2009 at 11:12 am
#92 Rhonda…Mei Xiang and Lun Lun are half-sisters, sharing the same dad, Lin Nan. Mei Xiang’s mom is Xue Xue. I can’t remember Lun Lun’s mother’s name right at the moment but I know someone here will know. Tai Shan is a cousin to both the SDZ offspring and the Zoo Atlanta offspring.
August 3rd, 2009 at 11:15 am
I think there are 2 pandas who are going to have tummy aches this afternoon — they are going to town on those beautiful ice cakes filled with all kinds of yummy treats. But who can blame them — I’d probably do the same thing!!
August 3rd, 2009 at 11:23 am
Wow great cakes and enrichment items for the girls birthday’s. Thanks to all for providing them with such fun for their special day. Please tell the creators that they have outdone themselves this year.
Still waiting for the bundle of joy to arrive. I am glued to my computer. Hope Bai and baby to be are ok.
August 3rd, 2009 at 11:30 am
Zhen Zhen obviously LOVES her “cake.” She has been playing with it for over an hour that I have been checking with her this afternoon. She self-anointed with it, played with it, and is now eating it (11:26 Am PDT). Kudos to teh nutrition staff who made it. I must check the videos for Su Lin’s “party.”
I can’t imagine all the excitement going on at SDZ today. It is an incredible week, even more exciting than Su Lin’s second birthday two years ago when ZZ was born the next day amid all the celebrations, and everyone tuning in to Su Lin and Mei Sheng. My congratulations to all for providing all the pandas their individual celebrations and enrichment, while maintaining 24×7 birth watch. Your adrenaline must be on high pumping speed. Meanwhile Papa Gao is enjoying his outdoor space all to himself and having his own celebration in peace with his beloved about to produce cub #4 (5?). Quite an accomplishment for the beloved “little” old gentleman.
August 3rd, 2009 at 11:30 am
Happy birthday girls! The birthday cakes are exquisite as always. It looks like Zhen Zhen is putting on quite a show for the visitors to the zoo today. The camera shots are wonderful – thank you.
Any news from Bai?
August 3rd, 2009 at 11:30 am
Fantastic cakes for those beautiful girls, they have realy enjoyed them,whoever made them you have done a perfect job well done to you all, and thanks for all the close ups just great.
August 3rd, 2009 at 11:39 am
Wonderful cakes, fantastic camera work and our two unmatched beauties. What more could a panda nut ask for. Thanks SDZ staff for a wonderful time.
August 3rd, 2009 at 11:44 am
I check out Le Le and Ya Ya several times a day and at 2:45 on August 3, Ya Ya is enjoying her birthday ice cake. She seems to be having a grand time with it. Happy Birthday Ya Ya.
August 3rd, 2009 at 11:54 am
The Birthday Celebration has been a total BLAST to watch!!! To the staff: a huge thank you for the great cakes! And a Special Award to whomever painted the BLUE Box for Sweet Su! The Blue Nose on Su Lin is priceless!!! I loved Zhen knocking over her cake and then dragging it further away before grabbing the tier holder bamboo. Thank you all for all you do to keep the bears and their fans full of enrichment moments
August 3rd, 2009 at 11:58 am
Hi! Been keeping pandacam going since this morning ET, and watching both Su Lin and ZZ have their birthday fun with their presents, treats, and ice cakes! They were both trying to figure out how to dismantle their cakes to get at those veggies and boo that were incased in ice! Funny stuff from the both of them! Still keeping pandacam on them. I did see Bai in her den doing her napping, moving around, being sprawled out, and rolled up into a big furry ball. I’m wondering if she is beginning to go into labor!?! Will get back on the cam in a little bit.
Breaking news: Northern Baja California had 2 earthquakes within the last 30-45 minutes near Tijuana and San Diego, Cal., measuring 5.8 and 6.9 on the Richter scale. Did anybody at the zoo and WAP feel any of those 2 quakes? They said on Fox News that the second stronger one was a little closer to SD, Cal., which is a little over 300 miles from the epicenter. I looked at the pandacam, and it looks like the pandas didn’t pay too much attention to any earth movements from what I could see. Let us know if you all felt anything from those quakes, ok? I know everything is fine because they said that SD didn’t have any damage from the 2nd quake, but we don’t know about the Baja Cal areas yet. What a day you all are having today!! Just now as I write this, 3rd earthquake near Baja Cal at 6.0 magnitude! This one centered in the bay between Baja Cal and Mexico. 3 quakes in one hour up your way! This time Phoenix, Arizona felt that 3rd quake. Crazy day!!!
Chari Mercier
St. Pete, FL
Anyway, back to the pandacam to watch the birthday girls and momma to be Bai!
Chari Mercier
St. Pete, FL
Moderator’s note: We didn’t feel anything here.
August 3rd, 2009 at 12:10 pm
I had an appointment this morning, so I didn’t get to see the girls with their cakes! I’ll just look forward to the video. I hope there will be videos!
And I didn’t wish ZZ happy birthday yet. HAPPY BIRTHDAY GIRLIE, GIRL.
August 3rd, 2009 at 12:31 pm
First, HAPPY BIRTHDAY to the girls!
Second, as soon as I heard the quakes were felt in San Diego I thought of “our” expectant mother. But right now she looks like she is quiet and sleeping.
BTW did not feel the quakes up where I am which is far-north Phoenix area, but it cracked some windows in downtown Phoenix. That’s some quake.
August 3rd, 2009 at 12:33 pm
After dropping my son off at zoo camp this morning, I took a few minutes for myself and headed down fern canyon to get a peek at the panda party! Zhen Zhen came out first. She looked over her beautiful cake licking up the honey. After a bit she found a box, which she shook a few times. Then a big stock of bamboo caught her eye!
Su Lin came out next, she enjoyed some leaf eater biscuits first, then headed for her cake. After licking it for a few minutes, she stood right up and and went after the top. I heard a lady behind me say, “Now SHE knows how to enjoy a cake!” It was our fabulous Lisa Bryant enjoying the fun! Lisa said there was no new panda baby yet . . .
The ladies who made the cakes were in the front row taking pictures and enjoying the show. As I am sure you all saw on the cams, they did an absolutely amazing job with the ice cakes. The cakes were pink with colored hearts, stars and stripes. I heard that the cakes had holes filled with honey and were topped with apples. I forgot to ask how they acheived the beautiful colors.
Before leaving for work, I stopped back by Zhen Zhen’s area to see her contendly reclining back on a tree enjoying her bamboo (facing away from the view area).
Chari #168 – We felt the quake in our office building; just a roller that set the window shades swinging. We are only a couple of miles away from the zoo as the crow flies so it is interesting that they did not feel the quake. Probably the difference between being up in a building and being down on the ground.
Moderator’s note: Thanks for the great description, Lisa. We have some photos from the morning now posted in our What’s New section: http://www.sandiegozoo.org/whatsnew/ and we’ll have video ready shortly.
August 3rd, 2009 at 1:00 pm
OK people – did I get our girls mixed up? Or did they both end up with blue noses? I thought for sure I was watching Zhen…
P.S. Can we please know what was in the boxes..??
Moderator’s note: Panda biscuits were waiting to be discovered inside the boxes.
August 3rd, 2009 at 1:05 pm
Dear Su Lin & Zhen Zhen,
Happy Birthday!! Your birthday cakes look beautiful and you are so cute! I hope you are having a wonderful birhday party today.
Love,
Seiko
August 3rd, 2009 at 1:10 pm
Happy Birthday, dear Su Lin and little Zhen Zhen!
I loved your cakes! Wonderful!
August 3rd, 2009 at 1:19 pm
Happy Birthday Zhen and Su! Happy early birthday to the cub! (or cubs!) I completely missed the celebration! Please post pictures and a nice video! (If you can) How were the cakes? Did the birthday girls get presents? Will we be able to choose the name of the cub? (Or cubs?)
August 3rd, 2009 at 1:40 pm
Happy Birthday Sue Lin & ZhenZhen, I cant wait to come down and visit you soon!!!!
Thanks SD Zoo for allowing the send a post card opption for all of us 
The cakes were so pretty,Both girls seemed to climb up on them also. Got lots of pictures
August 3rd, 2009 at 1:54 pm
Happy Birthday to Sun Lin and Zhen Zhen!
How long will Su Lin stay at San Diego Zoo before heading back to China?
August 3rd, 2009 at 1:59 pm
Lisa, how luck you are being able to visit the SDZ at any time. We slaves to the web cams are envious of your convenience!
I was able to watch some of the festivities today on cam, but had to leave to run errands and (yuck) pay some bills. I have found that I have to log out of my home page, load google and can watch the cams on full screen mode. I am so getting a new home page (and a new pc with more memory). What I have now is so limiting. But I’m just grateful to be able to watch any/all of the zoo cams. I was also watching Bai Yun a while ago, and she is so, so uncomfortable. My heart goes out to her.
The talk of Tai Shan, Mei Lan and Su Lin leaving for China got me all choked up, as I was reading today’s posts. I don’t know how I’ll ‘bear’ all three of them leaving almost at the same time. Everyone knows Tai is my first baby, but now I love them all equally.
Congratulation to the cake makers. The ice cakes are/were totally beautiful…looked good enough to eat.
Back to Bai. Wish I could rub her back or something.
August 3rd, 2009 at 2:09 pm
Happy Birthday to Su Lin and Zhen Zhen. I watched ZZ with her cake on the camera for a while. It looked like she was having a blast and boy! is she getting to be a big girl. I didn’t get to watch Su Lin with hers’. I hope she had fun with her cake also.
Thank you to all the zoo staff for providing us with such entertainment. Hoping the new baby comes soon!
August 3rd, 2009 at 2:09 pm
Happy Birthday to Su Lin, Zhen Zhen, and YaYa! Three special ladies! I’ve seen YaYa; she’s a beautiful little panda lady. It was absolutely awesome; she was eating bamboo right up against the glass enclosure. I watched her for what seemed like hours! They’re magnificent!
August 3rd, 2009 at 2:19 pm
Happy B-day to you Zhennie and sister Su! I have to say that Zhennie brought her cake down faster than Su, she is just more inquisitive, I guess…or hungry for panda treats! Did you see her climb on top, for a moment there, she was the panda topper on her own cake! then she couldn’t figure out how to get down…priceless! Got some great pix to share with you, Marian! Wish we could be there to give them a great big birthday hug and kiss! xoxox
August 3rd, 2009 at 2:33 pm
The cake that keeps on giving–ZZ is still wrestling with that one piece of bamboo!
August 3rd, 2009 at 6:43 pm
Happy birthday to Susie and ZZ! Su Lin was my first ever “panna daughter” and will always hold a special place in my heart. Good to see both girls are enjoying their celebrations! Debora, thanks for the reminder on Ya Ya. I have been to Memphis Zoo 3 times and she is really a wonderful lady bear, with a funny beau in Le Le. Hoping they can have a cubbie soon!
August 4th, 2009 at 8:02 am
One healthy cub will do, but we can keep our paws crossed for two.
Thanks again for the update!
August 4th, 2009 at 8:21 am
Bai is looking very restless. I bet today is the day!
August 5th, 2009 at 7:55 am
Any news yet on the birth?