Prepping for the First Exam
Posted at 10:11 am August 31, 2009 by Kathy HawkIt’s hard to believe that our baby panda will soon be a month old! Already preparations are taking place for the first cub exam by our Zoo veterinarians. How does one prepare for such an event? Well, it all really depends on mother Bai Yun.
Giant pandas do have a postpartum fast that can last up to several weeks. Once Bai is observed leaving the den to start eating, we start planning for a cub exam. Right now, Bai is leaving the den on a regular basis, eating small amounts of bamboo, leafeater biscuits, and produce three times a day. She is slowly getting back to her old routine. When the slider door closes to Bai Yun’s bedroom and sunroom, she hears the keeper cleaning the sunroom. When the keeper is finished cleaning, food is placed in the sunroom, the door opens, and Bai has access to her food. Lately, she has been coming out within a few minutes.
As Bai Yun eats in the sunroom, we gently close the slider door that separates her from her cub. We, of course, monitor her comfort level with this; we have her up to four minutes now with the door closed. The next step is to have a keeper in the other bedroom with the cub, doing some very quiet cleaning while Bai is eating. We have another keeper watching Bai in the adjoining sunroom to make sure she is fine with this. Our goal is for five minutes with this management. Once we have reached our goal, we can set a day for a cub exam.
The first exam is quite a staged event. We have a keeper selected to get the cub from the den, one keeper with Bai Yun making sure she is settled and eating, the vet who will perform the “quick exam,” the Zoo’s
photographer and videographer filming the process, and our nutritionist, who will get measurements on the cub. We try to keep the first exam very brief; as time goes by, we will lengthen the exam time as Bai permits us. Of course, if the cub starts to cry, the exam is over and it is placed back into the den very quickly! Bai is an excellent mother and will react if her baby is in distress.
The big question now is the date of the exam. All I can say for now it that it will be very soon! I have had the privilege of getting several of our panda cubs out of the den for their first exam. I can tell you this: it is very exciting holding a baby cub and seeing it for the first time out of the den! We are placing bets on the sex of our new cub. What is your guess? Stay tuned….
Kathy Hawk is a senior keeper at the San Diego Zoo.
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August 31st, 2009 at 10:19 am
i got quite a good look at our little man on saturday…and now for the collective “ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh” he is shapped just like a mini wrecking ball….another “ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh” i have to admit that i didn’t witness any visable proof of his manhood…..but i am feeling that he is a he or a her with a pronouonced masculine side.
August 31st, 2009 at 10:20 am
what a thrill it must be for a keeper to come into contact with a cub for the first exam.we all wish for that same experience, but will be content to watch for the magic moment.
without any scientific facts, i am guessing that #5 lis a male. our san diego prince.
joan said
painted post, n.y.
August 31st, 2009 at 10:24 am
My bet is a boy!
August 31st, 2009 at 10:28 am
lol when the baby cries its over …to cute! I can’t wait her measurement and health exam! the public has trust in SDZ to keep Bai very calm and happy..and of course baby..just to let you guys know that we are waiting patiently : )
August 31st, 2009 at 10:28 am
I see a Su Lin butt on the cam. It looks like the tree is holding.
Kathy, thanks for the great information on the exam procedure. I know we are all anxious but Bai and her wonderful keepers know best.
August 31st, 2009 at 10:31 am
oh yea i forgot to add is that all along I am guessing its a boy! look at him is he sooo strong ! Bai holds him like a football hehe
August 31st, 2009 at 10:34 am
Thank you for the latest update Kathy! We were all wondering about the door being closed and your post explains the process quite well.
As for the gender, I’m sticking with my first guess which is ‘It’s a Boy’. That is not based on anything scientific as you all certainly know better than I do! Boy or Girl…she will still be adored and we will no doubt be ooohing and awwwing over every milestone s/he achieves over the next 18 months!
August 31st, 2009 at 10:40 am
Kathy, thank you for the update, this is a most exciting time and I would give anything to be the one to get the baby out of the den. I think Bai being an experienced mom would be comfortable with the baby being taken out for a short time. I believe this baby is a BOY, and on the subject of boys A DNA test will be given as soon as possible to determine if our big boy Mei Sheng could possibly be a father, since he also mated to with the female who has recently given birth.
August 31st, 2009 at 10:41 am
Wow Kathy how exciting for you! I would not be a good candidate to take the cub out because I would want to snuggle and love on it!!! I wouldn’t be able to resist – must take a strong will power to do your job and stay on task! But do all of us out here a favor – please??? Just one little snuggle???? LOL Thanks so much for the “stages” of the first exam.
August 31st, 2009 at 10:42 am
Thank you for the update, Kathy. I guess a bunch of us thought the next update would be THE Update
The excitement is building and we will wait as we waited for Christmas Morning as children 
I do think the little cubby is a male 
Now we know why the door to the sunroom closes when Bai has gone out to dine
August 31st, 2009 at 10:46 am
Wellllllllll……I thought there might have already been an exam. Thank you so much for letting us all in on what’s going on. You all do a phenomenal job, and we all thank you.
And Meerkats, you’ve out done yourselves this morning — just a few minutes ago, there was a close-up of baby hanging over Bai’s arm. What a perfect, perfect little creature.
August 31st, 2009 at 10:49 am
Thank you Kathy for the update on the exam schedule. Can hardly wait! You’ve made it even more exciting by keeping us up with details on how you get ready. It’s nice to have a “picture” of what’s going on behind the scenes. Soon—woohooo! I have missed all the close ups of the cubbie’s “jewels”, but from all the comments in the blog, it sure sounds like Boy time! Wish we could all be you when you get to hold the new cubbie!
August 31st, 2009 at 10:51 am
Everyone says its a boy so I’ll be different and take bets on a girl. I don’t know why but my instinct says girl. Growing so fast!!! First thing I do every day is check the web site for the panda blogs. I enjoy also the info. Thanks.
August 31st, 2009 at 10:57 am
Thanks…it certainly explains the closed door I saw over the weekend. I kind of wondered if that may be what was going on. And, my bet is a boy. Just a hunch. As always- thanks for the chance to watch and learn.
August 31st, 2009 at 10:57 am
Kathy, thanks so much for the update! Although maybe not the one we have all been anticipating, glad to have more info just the same. It is so amazing how much time and effort on the part of so many that goes into each part of having a panda cub. And by the way – I SOOO want your job! I am betting the cub is a boy. Part gut feeling and part because I thought I saw some family jewels on the cub as well. I am going to feel pretty dumb if it turns out to be a girl and hope she will not be offended at the certain anatomical parts that many of us are sure we have seen. At any rate, boy or girl, this cub has got to have the biggest fan base yet!
August 31st, 2009 at 11:03 am
I think it is a Peter Panda…..lol He certainly is growing and becoming a cutie pie for sure. So anxious to hear the final word on gender. Thanks Kathy for keeping us all informed.
August 31st, 2009 at 11:07 am
OF COURSE it is a little female! Look at that strength, determination, confidence! She is always on the move to see what life has in store for her! Nothing will stop this girl from getting what she wants out of life!
August 31st, 2009 at 11:11 am
Fabulous update! I’ve been checking constantly to see when the exam might be, especially as Bai Yun seems to leave the den for longer and longer periods of time. Your explanation was so helpful!! .
And I’m guessing it’s a girl… she’s feisty, wants to explore, loves being with mom but is okay on her own… and you know what? Whatever gender the cublet turns out to be will be exactly perfect!! And I agree with Rhonda that if I were the keeper or vet, I’d want to hug and would practically smother it to death with love and kisses. I’ve got my grandsons (ages 6 and 2) absolutely transfixed on the panda cam, watching the wee one grow.
Please let her know how much she is loved by the San Diego community!
August 31st, 2009 at 11:13 am
I just saw our little guy leaning on Mommy’s paw, what a little cutie, he liked like he was squalking. Thanks for the update guys, and the awesome camera work.
August 31st, 2009 at 11:15 am
I’m betting you have a widdle boy with a great set of lungs, so I’m also betting that the first exam is going to be REALLY short.
August 31st, 2009 at 11:26 am
Cubbie seems to be getting more and more restless these days. Seems like he just wants to take off sometimes! Trying very hard to see if eyes are open yet….
August 31st, 2009 at 11:28 am
Thank you everybody for all of your wonderful, informative updates. And thank you for the wonderful panda cam that allows us to see this little miracle up close and personal. San Diego zoo is the greatest!
August 31st, 2009 at 11:34 am
As with everything you do, you have carefully thought out protocols for handling this delicate event. Thank you for being so careful and caring with these wonderful creatures.
August 31st, 2009 at 11:46 am
Kathy, I love seeing the videos and photos of the previous first exams of cubs. I presume you are the one carrying them ever so gently, tenderly, and quickly for the vet check and measurement. They all look puzzled as to where they are and where Bai Yun is. We expect this time to be no different. You have a very exciting and important job. Bai Yun appreciates the care you give her tiny ones and shows it be trusting them into your care for a few minutes while see eats in peace.
I am guessing a boy, mostly from scientific data and observations, not from the panda cam views of anatomy since haven’t seen any of those close-ups in the video time lapse. Besides from how difficult it was to be certain ZZ was female, I am guessing it is not always clear from observation that it is a male.
A question was asked about the eyes opening and the cub stretching its head appearing to be searching for Bai Yun. Since we know that the eyes will not be fully open for at least another month, is it possible that the hearing develops first and that what viewers are seeing is really the cub’s reaction to increased ability to hear and recognize sounds? If so, that is another reason for quietly and slowly closing the door of the den so as not to startle the cub or mother. Bai is the best of moms, and seems to be thriving and giving this cub her usual standard of exceptional care. Regarding the appearance, or perhaps lack of appearance, of the cub on the cam that people commented about over the weekend. Is the new camera infrared like the previous one? If so, is it possible that the cub was in a place near a den wall and therefore out of view? I know Bai took ZZ out very early, but I don’t think it was before she was 6 weeks old. I am curious about the reference to her sniffing a particular spot upon her return because I remember that one of the proposed explanations for her taking ZZ out of the den so early was potentially a very small piece of her fece found buried in the bamboo nest. Once that was removed and the den thoroughly cleaned she returned ZZ to the den and was more relaxed and let her stay there. She even “barracaded” the door with piled up bamboo so ZZ could not “escape” on her own once she started to crawl about.
As you and Suzanne have said, exciting times are just beginning with so many milestones coming so fast that it is hard to record them all in one’s brain.
Thanks for the great updates, and best wishes that you get to hold another very tiny young panda for its first human exam. Momma Bai does her exam many times a day, and seems to have pronounced the cub a very healthy one, and therefore gives him/her the best of nutrition and cleaning multiple times a day.
August 31st, 2009 at 11:46 am
Thank you Kathy for the update! I place my bet on a BOY. From some of the screen shots I’ve seen he looks just like Gao Gao! LOL
Bai is such a wonderful mommy. I simply adore her. I love watching her everyday mothering her newest little treasure. She and her hubby are special pandas indeed!
I can’t wait to see it confirmed what his gender is. I feel very strongly that Mei Sheng FINALLY has a little brother.
August 31st, 2009 at 11:54 am
Don’t miss the pictures and videos of Xi Lan’s 1st birthday on the “Pandas Live on” website. There is something about pandas standing on their birthday cake… I suspect that is part of what panda’s mommies tell their cubbies what to do on their birthday…
August 31st, 2009 at 11:55 am
Thanks Kathy for the update. While watching the panda cam early yesterday morning, I knew something was up. I was hoping that we would be getting wonderful news this morning concerning the cub’s first exam. To me, it looked liked everything was in readiness for the big day.
Your description of the plan for the cub’s first exam has me all excited. Now I’m on pins and needles. I’m still guessing that it’s a boy.
August 31st, 2009 at 11:58 am
LITTLE “ROBUST ROBBIE”…. STRONG,CONFIDENT,DETERMINED…SOUNDS LIKE ZHEN ZHEN????
ONE MORE BABY BOY…THAT WOULD BE 2 AND 2 FOR BAI AND GAO!!!!!!!!!
BOY/GIRL DOESN’T MATTER….HEALTHY, CONTENT, AND CURIOUS…THAT’S FIRST…
August 31st, 2009 at 12:07 pm
Many thanks for the update. I’m betting our little “chubba cubba” is a boy. I cannot believe how big he is already. He has a very good mother. (Course we already knew that.) And I agree with Deb on having a very short first exam.)
Thanks SDZ!!
August 31st, 2009 at 12:21 pm
The views of this little BOY panda cub have been spectacular! You cam folks are great!!
The little darling seems perfectly happy on his back, with mama nestled beside him, and also he seems to be sleeping (or hanging out just wiggling a bit, maybe just muscles and nerves growing) without distress now while mama is outside. This is a happy well-fed little adored bundle of baby panda!
You’re so respectful of Bai and cautious not to upset her as she does her perfect mothering job.
Isn’t he just the most perfect little being? Those tiny claws! So chubby and just plain PERFECT! He’ll be so fun to watch grow up, as I did his sister ZZ.
He’s getting fed and licked again now, gotta go watch!
August 31st, 2009 at 12:27 pm
I KEEP SAYING “HE”WHEN I TALK ABOUT THE BABY PANDA. SO, I AM HOPING IT IS A BOY!
August 31st, 2009 at 12:28 pm
Pretty much like everyone else I think it’s a boy.
August 31st, 2009 at 12:28 pm
These last two days have been so precious. Baby is getting so big, and visible. Right now I saw him/her copying Mom. Mom’s on her side with her arm under her head, and Baby was doing the same thing!!!
I’m wondering how they are handling this heat wave here in S. Diego. Is there a way to keep them cool?
Moderator’s note: The pandas’ all have air-conditioned bedrooms, including the birthing den area. In addition, keepers turn on misters in the exhibits when it gets too warm.
August 31st, 2009 at 12:59 pm
I think it’s a boy this time around. =)
August 31st, 2009 at 1:09 pm
Cubbie is by him/herself right now:-). Oh, I cannot wait for that day….we’re all getting excited here. I still think that he is a boy since I saw some close-up of him a few days ago:-). My mom likes another girl and mu hubby settles for a boy also:-). We’re panda-watching here everyday….there are moments when I feel like we’re in our youngster years and cannot wait for our birthday or Christmas to happen….
Thank you for the updates:-). I think, cubbie is enjoying his/her time without Momma Bai…S/he is stretched out rigth now:-)…..
Moderator’s note: It’s always fun to have something to look forward to!
August 31st, 2009 at 1:17 pm
I’m hoping for a boy; we need to diversify the wonderful genes of these two prolific panda producers!
August 31st, 2009 at 1:19 pm
Thanks for an informative update! My favorite thing about the SDZ blogs is reading about how keepers, vets, etc. develop and institute plans for the needs of their animals. I love seeing brilliance and caring in action to accomplish the best interests of the animals that count on their keepers for all their needs. It is also endlessly fascinating! I both can and can’t imagine being able to hold such a precious little animal. It would be such a joyful experience! I am happy for the lucky keeper that gets to have a quick first moment with the newest panda addition. As for the gender of the cub, it makes me no difference as long as he or she is healthy and content. It is cute as a button either way! Wishing Bai, the cub, the keepers, vet and staff a great first exam!
August 31st, 2009 at 1:20 pm
I thought it was a boy from the moment I saw him roll over. But from Karen’s comment, maybe we all wrong? All’s I know, he/she is a perfect creature, and I am in love.
August 31st, 2009 at 1:27 pm
What a healthy little chunkster! He’s moving around so much that he seems stronger than other cubs his age. I’ver voting for a big boy.
August 31st, 2009 at 1:28 pm
Kathy, thanks for the update. I am having so much fun watching the new cub. Bai is cooperating nicely to show us her new cub. I just love when I can get a peek at the cub. All of you associated with the cub, keep up the great work. I think the cub is a boy
August 31st, 2009 at 2:02 pm
Thank you for the update! We watch Baby Panda like hawks every other minute of the day. I’ve also seen the closeups when it is alone and thought it may be a boy… but deep down I want to say girl just because everyone says boy. It’s the cutest thing ever! Can’t wait for the real update! =)
August 31st, 2009 at 2:32 pm
Thanks for the update. I/we are a group of Eagle cam watchers and babies have fledged. We have quickly become Panda cam watchers. This is wonderful and would like to thank you for this great experience.We are from VA NC MI RI OH and the UK. This is the most loving mother we have ever seen. We / I enjoy watching how gently she handles “him”/ “her”. She is an awesome mom . Congratulations to you and Bai Yun on this little miracle. Look forward to watching him grow and keep mom awake. He is just beautiful. Thanks for sharing them with us . Since we have been calling him – “him” I will vote boy too. Tho a little girl would be nice.Blessings to you all , to Bai and that precious bundle of love. Will look forward to his progress reports.
Moderator’s note: Welcome to Panda Cam, Kim and company! We also have Polar Cam, Ape Cam, and Elephant Cam to enjoy.
August 31st, 2009 at 2:43 pm
Hello all my friends in panda land…I was trying to view video of Miss Fluffy Butt’s exams when she was so little but can’t seem to access any video of her early years. Has anyone been able to view older video of past exams? Thanks in advance for any help given. I hope Pip is a boy, but I already love this little cub no matter what it turns out to be. We all love updates so thanks for this one.
August 31st, 2009 at 2:44 pm
I am in such an awwwwwwwwww!!!!! now. It’s so wonderful to see the cub more. I too agree that this is a boy. He makes his moving around ventures very strongly. All of you keepers and staff at the panda house are so dedicated to the pandas and you do a wonderful job caring for them and keeping us informed.
August 31st, 2009 at 2:49 pm
I’m with many of you. He just looks like a boy to me. I love the comment someone said about Mommy holding him like a football. Perfect time of the year don’t you think? I still get thrilled when I see this enormous Mom hold this precious jewel with such gentleness. Watching her and the other Pandas at Atlanta, Washington and Memphis and of course at San Diego is a great blessing to me daily. Thanks to all.
August 31st, 2009 at 2:50 pm
So that was what was going on yesterday morning! And here we thought it could be ‘the event’, LOL! Thank you Kathy for the explanation! SDZ does an excellent job of telling us what is happening and what to expect! Very informative, very educational! You take excellent care of us pandaholics, as well as your panda family!! I appreciate that you let Bai tell you when SHE is ready for the next step to minimize her and her cubs stress!
I would love for this little one to be a boy! The US Zoos combined would then have ‘contributed’ 4 boys and 4 girls to the preservation of this beloved species!
August 31st, 2009 at 2:54 pm
Thank you SDZ for the updates & information. I have learned so much from you and also from the bloggers.
Watching the panda cams of all the zoos is great entertainment but the info is greatly appreciated.
#17 Lilarose 1941. Love that name !! But I also am pleased by your suggestions that Squeaky MUST be a
girl because the cub is “strong, determined and confident”
August 31st, 2009 at 3:31 pm
Mammals are just like us. Oh WAIT….we ARE mammals. There is one great misfortune attached to being a bi-ped mammal. We do not live in the moment, we tend to live in the past and some of us even plan for the future. And there is one big advantage to being a biped mammal. We can plan for the future. Which makes us, all of us, caretakers for those who cannot. Thanks to all of you who plan for the future of those who cannot
, including the care you take for baby’s first exam. Life is good for mother and child there in San Diego.
August 31st, 2009 at 3:33 pm
I have a wonderful close up postcard of baby’s jewels. I wish I could post it for everyone to see. If it’s not a male, I believe San Diego has a serious problem on their hands. There appears to be fluffage around the edges.
August 31st, 2009 at 4:00 pm
Thanks Kathy for the update! I think the chubbie cubbie is a mama’s boy.
They are both adoreable. Bai is a wonderful mom… looks like she’s rocking her little baby. I’d love to hold that little cubbie for just one second. I say “he’s so needy”, it has to be a boy. The cub is growing so fast! Trying to wiggle free. LOL… Looking forward to the first exam, from Charlotte, NC.
August 31st, 2009 at 4:01 pm
You all are a well-oiled machine; that’s for sure. Thanks for the in-depth description of the preps for the big day. We, as a whole, can hardly wait, especially for the video and pics. Marion Schuller #48: you hit the nail on the head with your thoughts/comment.
My money is on the cub being male.
I have to say, though, I don’t have much luck in the odds game.
August 31st, 2009 at 4:59 pm
Thank you, Kathy Hawk, for the super info…helps enormously to prepare for the upcoming baby event…
one question-what IF ma returns too early, real early and you can’t scramble quick enough to get baby back in time? Do you have an idea of how she would react? Would she reject baby? I am just curious. I know your plans leave nothing to chance, I’m just a silly anticipator.
Gosh, there have been some special, special photo ops today…he looks about the size of a guinea pig now, but, of course, so much sweeter.
August 31st, 2009 at 5:29 pm
Deb#49…lot’s of places to post pics. Photobucket, youtube, flickr, just to name a few. Unless there is another reason I am not aware of. I thought I’d give you a few suggestions. I myself would love to see the one set of family jewels that England doesn’t have!
August 31st, 2009 at 5:52 pm
Gosh, momma loves her baby, all cuddling, hugging…licking…”ma ah, stop licking, it’s too hot!” Lick, lick, lick, kiss, kiss, kiss…..
August 31st, 2009 at 6:01 pm
Kathy – thanks for letting us know our cubbie has not been kidnapped (as someone commented in the last blog ” cub is missing call the guards”
The info about the first exam was really appreciated – the staff has this down to a real science 
And Kathy as a long time keeper I bet you’ve been chosen again to swoop in & pick up your latest miracle for his exam. (yep, am voting for a male) What we all wouldn’t give to hold a panda for minute 
– thanks for all you do. Now we wait for the next day or 2 for Bai to get more comfortable leaving her cub alone.
August 31st, 2009 at 6:16 pm
All this preparation for this cub’s 1st exam & Bai’s comfort level makes me wonder about LunLun letting the ZA staff take her cub for weight checks 2-3 times a day after his emergency was over . I’m sure somehow she knew they were trying to help her – but how?? She obviously knew something was wrong & must have trusted her keepers enough to let them take her cub for check ups -what a bond keepers & pandas must have
August 31st, 2009 at 6:49 pm
Thanks for the inside info! Can’t wait for a report of all the newbie’s stats
Meanwhile, the cutest video EVER is posted on youtube–search for “Baby’s soft and fluffy bed (Bai Yun’s 5th baby)” Aaarrgh! I can’t stop watching!
August 31st, 2009 at 7:02 pm
#2 – joan said – Love your nickname – the San Diego Prince
August 31st, 2009 at 7:02 pm
Kim, #42, I, too, am an eagle watcher! ! It’s amazing to watch the care mom and dad eagle give to the egss and the eaglets. Welcome to the updates. We are a bunch of panda CRAZY loving people.
Speaking of Bai “rocking” the chublet, often I have thought the same thing of the panda in Thailand. In fact a moment ago, it looked like Momma was trying to hold Linping but she was having nothing to do with it. Lin Hui has her hands full with that cutie. And she is an incredible mom.
Our cubbie is so nicely visible now that he’s grown. Can’t wait for an up close and personal video of the first exam.
August 31st, 2009 at 8:33 pm
Changing the subject…why does ma return with a piece of boo, she comes back to the nursery, places the boo down then picks baby up. I’ve seen her do this on a couple of occasions…just curious… maybe just in case baby wants a change in diet?
August 31st, 2009 at 8:34 pm
aaaaaaah, she loves her baby……..kiss, kiss, kiss….lick, lick, lick, hug, hug, snuggle.
August 31st, 2009 at 8:40 pm
#49 – Deb – I must be naive – what is “fluffage around the edges
August 31st, 2009 at 9:35 pm
Sure hope Bai Yun’s digs are air conditioned!
Moderator’s note: Indeed they are.
August 31st, 2009 at 9:35 pm
I’m getting so excited like everyone else here about the upcoming exam. I think the cubbie is a boy, but most importantly, I’m thrilled that he is healthy and strong. I hope Bai Yun lets you see him soon. The way you described the procedure reminds me of working in the OR. Every move was carefully orchestrated and everyone had an assigned task to make the surgery run smoothly. It is a real team effort just like the cubbie’s exam. It seems like it is taking SOOOOOOOOOOoooooooooo long to get to the exam time!!!!! I hope it happens soon!
Isn’t it funny how we want to rush the growth and development? After the first exam comes the eyes opening, then crawling, then stumbling, then name day, then public appearance, then… Until we get to that heart-wrenching time of weaning, and then even more the day of traveling to China…
NOTE to self: enjoy every stage and every day as it comes, because the time will rush on all by itself, and before we know it this little cub will be heading for China. Enjoy him in the now!
Thanks for update! I love this stage for the closeness of Mom and Cub. I love to watch the “feed, wash, sleep, repeat” cycle and the loving gentleness of Bai Yun as she positions the cub. Just to see her HUGE paws and teeth being used in a dainty way to cradle and care for her cub is a True Joy!
August 31st, 2009 at 10:07 pm
i think it to that it is a boy
greets from irma (from holland)
September 1st, 2009 at 12:30 am
I would so love to be the first person to hold a baby Panda. Still, I can dream, can’t I?
The little one is getting more adorable by the day. I daren’t look to see how many postcards I’ve sent and photos I’ve taken.
I hope this precious baby is told one day by Bai how many people were involved in his/her first exam!!
September 1st, 2009 at 12:57 am
What? The keepers are placing bets on the gender of the cub?
I’m shocked, shocked (!) to find that gambling is going on here!
(Although I really do think it’s a boy, right now I’d go with a girl bet solely due to the odds. I mean, you’ve got a 50/50 chance to clean up more than used bamboo.)
September 1st, 2009 at 2:28 am
I think it’s a boy but I have thought that from the moment cub was born, going on the data set from the last blog I would also say boy due to the amount of contact from Bai v being on the floor.
Compared to fiesty ZZ this cub seems to be a Zen Panda.
September 1st, 2009 at 2:43 am
I hope it is a boy,it would be nice for her to have another son.Has the SDZ heard anymore as to whether Mei Sheng is a Daddy or not?
September 1st, 2009 at 6:03 am
Gracious! Our widdle panda has the face of his daddy Gao !! Suzanne: my guess its a very healthy boy with the built of his daddy Gao… and the natural of Mei Shieng and and Su Lin
Sharon in very smoggy and choking Southern California
not too far from the fires
Moderator’s note: We hope you are safe from the fires, Sharon.
September 1st, 2009 at 6:16 am
I just saw mommy holding a black and white ball in hand… the palm size baby is so cute. Even the mother is very cute. I wants to squeeze both of them a bit.
September 1st, 2009 at 6:23 am
Thanks Kathy for the update.
September 1st, 2009 at 6:29 am
a funny coincidence. just peeked in on the den. bai was asleep, but as the camera came up, bai waved her paw at us. thanks sdz for you explanation of the protocol that goes into cubbie’s first exam. the one thing i can say with absolute certainy is the that cub is a …………………….. panda!
September 1st, 2009 at 7:15 am
I’d love to be there to assist with the exam, even though I’ve no veterinary experience whatsoever! I can only imagine how the little critter’s fur must feel, and I’m guessing it’s sort of like feeling a sheep’s wool, and not at all soft and fluffy like a stuffed animal. As for his/her gender, it really shouldn’t matter so long as we have a healthy cubbie, right? (Crosses fingers…)
By the way, Xi Lan had a birthday over the weekend and ZA has a couple of pictures posted of the birthday boy and his Big Sweet Potato Ice Lolly! Happy 1st, X-Man!
September 1st, 2009 at 7:25 am
It is 9:25 a.m. Central time & Squeaky is really moving around. Pretty soon he/she will skooting over to
the door saying, “Hey, I’m ready for my exam!”
September 1st, 2009 at 7:29 am
Wow Bai left for nearly 18 min this morning and we got another look at the baby’s nether region. I’m going to for boy as well though obviously there may be some differences to panda parts. Still I can’t see it being a girl given that look. It looks like we’ll know real soon if Bai keeps on going out and staying so long. I’d say 5 min to check the cub out would work well but of course just because Bai is gone longer doesn’t mean she is ready to be blocked off from her cub. He is a healthy looking little guy.
September 1st, 2009 at 7:33 am
Now that we’re placing bets, I’ll bet probably male or female and a tiny chance of hermaphrodite. As for the pictures, I saw them and still can’t tell – in some species like hyenas, the clitoris is as large as the penis even among adults. What about pandas?
September 1st, 2009 at 8:04 am
I think little Peanut is a boy, but either way, i dont care as long as it lives to be a healthy, happy panda
September 1st, 2009 at 8:20 am
I have always hoped the cubbie would be a boy, but I’ll be happy just to know he/she is healthy and progressing normally. From the looks of things that seems to be the case!!
Can’t wait for the cub exam and the update and video which will follow.
Thanks to all the keeps for everything you do. Bai Yun is one special momma.
September 1st, 2009 at 8:27 am
Good morning! I was just on the SDZ pandacam, and I saw a lovely moment of Bai when she has her baby in her big arm just hugging him while she’s laying on her back. Now, that’s a mother for you! This baby panda has been given alot of love from momma Bai, and she has done this with her other 4 kids as well. She is very loving, caring, tender, and very alert to her babie’s needs. I have also watched Bai with her cub over the weekend and yesterday, and she is not able to hide her cub as much anymore unless she’s in her furry ball mode to hide him. Before long, she won’t be able to do that! This little guy has been growing a little bit more, too! Now, he looks more like a panda and not a tiny butterstick! It’s amazing how fast panda cubs can grow in just one month! He’ll be one month old this Sat., Sept. 5, and that’s a milestone in itself just to get thru one month of life very successfully. Bai has done a great job getting her cub to that point in his life. Now, it should be pretty smooth sailing with more milestones to look forward to in the cub’s next 11 months! Can’t wait for that first vet exam!
Was also on the AZ pandacam yesterday a couple of times. First time, Lun was on the hammock and Xi Lan was on the log structure, both napping! Second time, Xi was up and climbing around near the hammock and log structure. He’s a big panda cub for a one year old! Also saw the pics of his ice cake on their update page and on Pandas Live On. They had several pics and a video of Xi’s birthday party on PLO, along with pics of Lun, Bai and cub, Mei Xiang, all of our favorite US pandas. The pics of Mei are just gorgeous; she looks like a panda model posing for the camera. They are beautiful pics of Mei!
Still praying for the residents of all of California—north, central, south—because of a number of wildfires that are still burning in the state. With a 5 year, 100% drought going on, this is a very serious situation for everyone there. The loss of 2 firefighters has been a tough one to deal with, but these courageous firefighters are still on the fire battle lines fighting these fires. Hopefully, San Diego will not be smelling that acrid smoke from the LA County fires, and SD County will not have any fires around you all! You all need rain so bad, and hopefully, Hurricane Jimena in the East Pac will oblige you with some of her rains after going into Baja Cal. You all stay safe and make sure these precious animals at SDZ and WAP are safe as well!
Will check in later on!
Chari Mercier
St. Pete, FL
September 1st, 2009 at 8:32 am
I live in the south of Brazil and was visiting San Diego when baby panda was born! Now I watch the panda cam every day and am so ecxited waiting for the first exam…
I´m in love with Bai Yun, I think she´s a wonderful mother, i didn´t know Giant Pandas could be like this.
And I´m hoping her cub is a girl!
Thank you to all San Diego Zoo team for the joy you are bringing to my days!
Tina
September 1st, 2009 at 9:01 am
I am so anxious for the baby’s first exam. I am hoping for a male…I would be happy with either sex, of course, but it seems as though it’s been a long time since we’ve had a little Panda boy romping around in San Diego Zoo (throwing a kiss to far off Mei Sheng).
Moderator’s note: The exam is being planned for sometime this week.
September 1st, 2009 at 9:27 am
A boy by all the loud cries as he came so robustly into this world! The cub is getting so big already and just too cute for words.
September 1st, 2009 at 9:34 am
I think it’s going to be a boy this time. Third time is a charm for a male panda.
September 1st, 2009 at 9:38 am
Momma knows baby likes to be on his tummy, did you see, he was squirming, and she finally, carefully pushed him over on his tummy…..ah oh, she left…..she knew he wouldn’t squawk on his tummy, while she went for a break….
September 1st, 2009 at 9:39 am
i think i just saw boy jewelry. a few moments ago there was a really really close up shot of the cub’s “area” and it wasn’t a tail. i was a bit embarrassed to be viewing the “area” and should probably rinse my eyes out with acid.
September 1st, 2009 at 9:40 am
what a sweet, miniature panda, laying there………what a sight!!! ya wanna just hold him, and squeeze him…but not too hard…..of course.
September 1st, 2009 at 9:48 am
September 2009 newsletter from Pandas International is out. There is a picture of Hua Mei’s baby in it also, and a nice article about Bai and her new baby. The picture in the article is of Bai and Mei Sheng.
September 1st, 2009 at 9:59 am
Cant wait down in Sandiego,done with my niece’s wedding and tomorrow Im off to the SD Zoo Yippee:)
I think it’s a boy also?Cant wait to see Zhen Zhen, Su Lin and I hope Gao Gao,Im down here till the 12th of September YAHOO !!!!! Lots of pictures and I mean LOTS !!!!!!! Im so glad that there close to the examination time,OH BOY,OH BOY
Moderator’s note: Have a great time at the Zoo, Marlene. We look forward to your visit! The Zoo is open until 9 p.m., so pace yourself.
September 1st, 2009 at 10:00 am
Some of you have mentioned an eagle cam. Can you provide any info to help the rest of us locate it? I think it would be grand to watch eagles too. Thanks.
September 1st, 2009 at 10:17 am
I am hoping its a boy. But either way it sure is cute. Bai Yun is the best Mommy!!!!
Thank you so much for the updates. Makes my day!!
September 1st, 2009 at 10:22 am
Panda cubs must have excellent equilibrium. Yesterday I happily watched as Bai turned the cub to and fro, backwards and forwards, sideways, upside-down, and every which way as she groomed him or her. The cub was never in one spot for long. Bai looked very intent on inspecting every millimeter of her cub. It was so cute and a little bit funny, too. I could just imagine him yelping “Mom, I’m getting dizzy! Slow down!” I love that giant pandas are so deceptively rugged
September 1st, 2009 at 10:37 am
For all the reasons others have cited–time held vs. on the ground, etc.–and for the cub’s laid back demeanor, I am convinced we have a little Gaolet (boy) cubbie. The exam will tell (we hope). In any case, he/she is a little bundle of adorableness with an amazingly wonderful mommy.
Welcome to all the new bloggers!
September 1st, 2009 at 10:53 am
Kris #90…Hancock Wildlife Foundation has lots of site to watch eagles, hawks and other birds. However, the nests might be empty now because all the babies have flown away. Maybe someone else knows of other sites….
Moderator’s note: We never want to discourage people from learning more about wildlife, but let’s keep these comments to this post’s topic: pandas. Thank you all for your understanding.
September 1st, 2009 at 11:03 am
I happen to tune in a while back and an SURE I seen some “Family Jewels” on our “Little Pee Wee” Will be exciting to hear the news of it’s Gender!! I am going for a “Boy”
Hope to be that way in Nov. and see all the wonderful Animals at your SDZ!! Each and everyone of you do a “Fantastic” job!!!
THANK YOU
September 1st, 2009 at 11:47 am
Definitely a little boy – caught a close up of his not-so private parts this morning
Even more than the baby panda (if there can be such a thing), I am enjoying watching Bai Yun’s mothering. What a beautiful, strong, gentle, patient, sensitive and intelligent panda she is! Congratulations Bai Yun on your newest cub!!!
September 1st, 2009 at 12:25 pm
I love the smile that Bai has on her face most of the time lately. She looks so happy, and this afternoon, with Snuggles tucked up against her body in front of her face, she looks like she knows something we don’t. And she does!!!! She knows she has a healthy cub, and the sex of the cub and what that means she has to do to teach it survival skills.
September 1st, 2009 at 12:28 pm
Help!!! Cubbie covered by Momma’s boo! Cubbie is TRYING to wiggle, trying real hard! Did Bai just bring it in?
September 1st, 2009 at 12:34 pm
Oh dear! Our beautiful bouncing baby boy is buried under boo!
September 1st, 2009 at 12:46 pm
I think there had better be a quick course in CPR or something similar because a lot of people are going to hyperventalate or get the “vapours” the next time you switch to one of the other pandas.
September 1st, 2009 at 1:06 pm
I’m watching the cam at 13:10 today and am in awe as to how beautiful our Bai Yun and her baby is sleeping. It’s so beautiful! I know this is a stretch but she looks like a work of art! She reminds me of a Panda version of The Madonna and Child. Ho
September 1st, 2009 at 1:07 pm
ooop! I saying how precious our panda family is! I love them so very much.
September 1st, 2009 at 1:11 pm
The baby is SO cute! I have a question… How come Mommy Bai sleeps with her head on top of the baby? It’s like the baby is a pillow! I am betting on a girl!
Hope that we figure out soon!
September 1st, 2009 at 1:22 pm
Referring back to Suzanne’s prior blog, I am wondering what behavior constitutes “contact on the ground.” Just now I saw our little cub resting his/her head on mom’s paw but bottom on the ground. Does that count as “contact on the ground?”
September 1st, 2009 at 1:51 pm
I think it is a boy, it was pretty verbal as soon as it was born.
September 1st, 2009 at 2:17 pm
It is a boy Panda because she has not had one in a while and by the way she takes good care of him.
September 1st, 2009 at 2:40 pm
I’m loving pandacam here in the UK. I didn’t know it existed until a couple of weeks ago & now I’m an addict.
One of the first things I do everyday is to switch on to see my favourite baby panda. I also think ‘he’s’ a boy…& I have no idea why.
It’s so great to watch his mum care for him so well, I love watching her moving him around in her great big gentle panda arms.
Sneak hin a kiss from me!
September 1st, 2009 at 3:11 pm
I think when momma bai looks up above, like she just now did, and does every day, pretty much, she is thanking the lord for the beautiful child in her arms….baby is usually nursing at that time, I believe…..she’s just patiently sitting, watching baby nursing, it’s all so adorable, really… I wonder what he smells like, I wonder if she knows he’s a boy or girl, probably doesn’t even care. Is he as black as ma now?
September 1st, 2009 at 3:12 pm
Wow, Bai is the greatest and most adaptable mom. She is holding Pip Squeak in her left forearm while giving him a thorough bath. Has her right forearm stretched out as if to relax it or balance herself. She is an incredible acrobat in the smooth gymnastic moves she does to take such efficient care of this cub. Maybe Su Lin and ZZ should be shown the videos before they go to China like Hua Mei was shown Panda Porn vidoes. It worked for Hua Mei, and made her a super mom too. Hopefully between the outstanding maternal care they received, and seeing their mom in action with a new cub would make them even better than they will otherwise be.
September 1st, 2009 at 3:12 pm
p.s. I sure miss you, Zhennie…..sweet thing….
September 1st, 2009 at 3:19 pm
Lisa #104,
Yes, that counts!
September 1st, 2009 at 4:09 pm
Mommy Bai always has a wonderful contented smile on her face, and no wonder why, she has the most beautiful baby BOY!!!!!!!!! We nominate Bai for the “MOTHER OF THE YEAR”
September 1st, 2009 at 4:21 pm
Lovely update on the procedures that will take place when you get a quick peek at the panda and how you work your way up to it. I have seen closeups but am not completely convinced it is a boy, yet. Only time will tell, but either way, I am so excited to watch this cub grow and cannot believe how large and round and absolutely perfect it has become. Any slight idea of how big it is now? It was stated that the cub was about the length of a stick of butter when it was born. Now it is almost outgrowing Bai’s single arm and hard to hide, so I was wondering if it might be a foot long, yet. Snuggles is definitely eating well and has beautiful coloration. Not to mention having the cleanest body in the world….
September 1st, 2009 at 4:44 pm
#104 – Lisa in San Diego – I’m pretty sure that “contact on the ground” means that Bai has left the cub alone while she eats or takes care of personal business
As he gets older you’ll see Bai sleeping on her platform while the cub is alone on the ground 
September 1st, 2009 at 5:19 pm
I don’t know panda anatomy (and I can’t sex kittens, either), but the baby was on his or her back for a while last week, and the camera was closing in on his or her genital region, and it looked like there were testes to me!
They are so sweet together!
September 1st, 2009 at 5:38 pm
Thank you sooooo much for this incredible information. It’s so interesting to know the process.
I am addicted to pandacam. My only complaint is that I don’t have control of the zoom feature at night when the keepers go home.
I think little “ButterStick” is a girl, but I have no reason except that I keep calling it “she”.
I’ve gotten several friends addicted to pandacam and we update each other all the time. I will be devastated if I miss her first steps. So glad you have videographers. I hope they get all those special moments.
Bai Yun is the BEST mama EVER! I love watching her scoop up little ButterStick and rock her.
Kathy, if you get to extract her for first exam please give her extra love for all of us. I’ll be front row, center when she comes out for the first romp to the public.
September 1st, 2009 at 6:30 pm
I think it’s a girl. Caught a brief glimpse when Bai left they little panda on it’s back.
September 1st, 2009 at 7:09 pm
Thank you for the update Kathy. I was wondering why the sunroom was closed. You have explained that well. I think it’s a boy! Mom was recently holding him and he stretched his legs out. It looked very clear, more like video than cam….the tiny paws and claws on him were very clear. It was awesome!
September 1st, 2009 at 7:12 pm
Mom and baby look happy and content tonight. Guess cublet survived the boo pile.
Because worrying is what I do best, I was wondering if you’re expecting a lot of rain from the hurricane? I saw the projected route of the eye, and it appears it’s going to skate along Baja directly toward SD. And I know that’s probably a dumb question, but I have a million of them. Just wait and see!
Moderator’s note: It doesn’t look like we’ll be getting any rain, at least not in the next few days.
September 1st, 2009 at 7:13 pm
I have the same question as Lisa #104 — Please correct me if I’m wrong but I was thinking “contact on the ground” is when Bai Yun either sleeps beside the cub with no contact and/or quits the den and leaves the cub on the ground alone in the den while she eats and goes to do her latrine duties.
I’ve noticed this happens more often when the cub gets older and isn’t nursing or needing to be close to mom for warmth when he/she can regulate his own temp without the aid of mom.
September 1st, 2009 at 7:27 pm
All panda fans love to compare how the pandas have done – for fun check back in the blog archives for Aug 2007 to read about Miss Z’s birth & her first days – all her first milestones – Bai’s first excursions out of the birth den -when the 24 hour watch ended, her first exam (no, the staff was not sure if cub was a male or female)
Wonder if Bai ever thinks ” Gao you did this – did you ever think of helping………….but oh, no, you have your a minute or 2 of fun every 2 years & then expect me to raise our cub by myself” 
Momma Bai still has her role down pat – nurse, lick, lick, lick, nurse some more, opps time to clean – more licking- this little one has a real set of lungs – so need to lick & nurse more
September 1st, 2009 at 7:34 pm
I just love how Bai Yun won’t let go of her cub except to make a brief exit out of the den to drink or eat and “go potty”. It makes me think the cub is a boy all the more because he’s doesn’t seem to like her to get far from him. She’s always got a paw or arm on her baby (or the baby on her arm or paw). It’s so endearing to me how protective she is. I can see why the keepers, researchers, vets and staff are having to gauge Bai’s tolerance level before the first exam. Bless her heart, Bai even is dragging her boos into the den with her and I’ve seen she’s trying to get a snack in the den while baby boy is within “sniffing” distance. I could see him practically hold his little head up as if to smell the direction his mom was in while she was eating in the den. Smart boy!
I’m going to miss this part of the denning phase even though we’ll get to see much more of our baby when he has more contact with the ground apart from mommy extraordinaire.
September 1st, 2009 at 9:38 pm
Thanks, Kathy, for your informative blog. It is so nice to hear a keeper’s perspective. What a great job you have and how lucky the pandas are to be at the San Diego Zoo!
September 1st, 2009 at 10:56 pm
We need to create new words to express how cute that little one is…just laying there over momma’s arm, as if looking on contently, while she’s snoozing…what an irresistible little munchkin…….meerkats and researchers, everyone involved, what self control you have, holding yourselves back! My hat goes off to you!
September 2nd, 2009 at 12:20 am
I think it is a boy! Cannot wait to hear and see all about the first exam! With prior cubs, I have seen Bai with the most serene and contented look on her lovely face, and I am sure that with this cubbie we shall see plenty of that again. Woohoo, exciting times!
September 2nd, 2009 at 1:37 am
I am still watching every day and I am so excited to see a fast growing, healthy baby panda. He / she is sooo cute. I send my best wishes over the ocean to Bai Yun and baby.
September 2nd, 2009 at 6:28 am
Hope you all checked in about 10 p.m. last night…..Momma was spread eagle on her back sleeping with the baby on her arm. Just too funny. She did look comfortable. I’m so relieve the baby is bigger…..and I had a dream last night that the cub is a boy!
September 2nd, 2009 at 7:28 am
Do you continue the extra detailed watch of mother and cub after the first exam, or is it mainly for the first month to be sure everything is OK.
Bai Yun sure does give a thorough bath. I can just imagine the sqawking that must be going on. Human children would be pitching a fit if they got that much contact in cleansing.
No wonder it is so clean and white until the pink tinge starts from the enzymes in her saliva.
Moderator’s note: The pink tinge is usually from the lred eaf eater biscuits in Bai Yun’s diet.
September 2nd, 2009 at 8:09 am
Baby-kins has been alone for quite some time this morning – more than 5 minutes I think. Did we get an initial exam??? Please????!!!
Moderator’s note: Not yet…
September 2nd, 2009 at 8:52 am
I think the anticipation is fun, am I weird? The little guy looks healthy and growing, so that’s a good sign! When does he squawk now, he seems pretty content for the most part. Right now he’s just sitting on momma’s shoulder
and chin while she lays there, pretty comfortably, I might add. Is he starting to see objects a bit? OOps, ma covered him with her large furry arm….baby love……
September 2nd, 2009 at 8:59 am
What fun to watch this baby grow and what a very good Mama Bai is. A big THANK YOU for providing this video cam so we can be part of this exciting happening.
September 2nd, 2009 at 9:09 am
I agree with Kristi #122, I’m going to miss this denning phase when Bai starts to move the cubbie outdoors. New adventures to be sure, but wow, words cannot express how absolutely wonderful and magical it is to see Bai and Baby so far away yet so close via the cam and all the closeup pix. You have outdone yourselves, SDZ team, at keeping all of us so informed—and glued to our computer screens! We get to literally watch the Baby grow.
September 2nd, 2009 at 9:55 am
For those of you still asking about “contact on the ground” – see suzanne’s response #111.
September 2nd, 2009 at 10:10 am
Thanks for the answer, Suzanne! (#111)
September 2nd, 2009 at 11:09 am
I have no idea why I am even posting a comment here today…absolutely everything has been said that I have been thinking and observing. I have no clue whether it is a boy or a girl; I don’t even care as I just simply love it. I think there is nothing more precious than a baby “anything!” I know this is the panda blog, but even the homliest babies have mamas that think their little miracles are beautiful, and they are absolutely right!! I only wish that zoos across the world were as caring as the SDZ. I would truly love to see all our pandas in their natural habitat, thriving and healthy and content, but I’m afraid that it won’t happen in my lifetime. Even so, I know our pandas here are happy and that the SDZ does everything possible to ensure they will stay that way.
September 2nd, 2009 at 11:11 am
I would be curious to know Bai’s weight loss after each baby. How long after birth until you can get a weight on her?
Kathy responds: We just started getting weights on her again a few days ago. Her current weight is 219 pounds (99.5 kg), which is not bad at all!
September 2nd, 2009 at 11:32 am
#128 Thanks for the clarification. I thought I read it had something to do with their saliva, but the red leaf eater biscuits make sense too. What is in the leaf eater biscuits that would tint them red, beets, sweet potato? I know that beet juice has been used for panda birthday ice cakes, i.e. Tai Shan’s July 9, 2009 cake.
Moderator’s note: The biscuits contain sugar beet pulp, so perhaps that gives them their reddish hue. More info about this can be found in the following post: http://blogs.sandiegozoo.org/blog/2005/12/02/black-and-white-and-pink-all-over/
September 2nd, 2009 at 11:38 am
just popped on— both are snuggled up close- napping– like ‘ all is right with my world’
he says- ‘got mum, she says- got ‘baby’ and we are safe and fine..
cubbie is gettin so chubby..
September 2nd, 2009 at 1:37 pm
To kat w #52:
Bai Yun is in another room during her cub’s exam. If she or the cub exhibit any signs of stress during the separation, the exam will be stopped, the cub immediately returned to the den, and Bai will be given access to the den. She will not reject her cub just because it was handled, although she’ll probably give it a thorough exam of its own!
September 2nd, 2009 at 3:21 pm
He’s a right little wriggly piggly today! When do baby pandas start to walk & play? It looks like it can’t be long now…
And how do you name them?
Moderator’s note: Panda cubs learn to walk at 14 to 15 weeks of age. They attempt to play at around 5 months. And we’ve had a different naming procedure for each cub. We’ll keep everyone posted on this year’s naming opportunity.
September 2nd, 2009 at 3:24 pm
Right now (15:27-30ish) on Cam 25 the n00b is between Bai Yun’s arms and moving his or her own paws on the nesting material, as if he or she’s trying to crawl out from under Bai Yun’s right arm. Bai Yun’s keeping the newbie out of trouble even when she’s asleep.
September 2nd, 2009 at 5:49 pm
I think it’s a boy.
September 2nd, 2009 at 9:20 pm
This has been such a delight to watch Mama with her baby. What tender loving care she gives him. Yes, I think it is a boy. Watching Bai Yun with her baby is the first thing I look at each morning. I’m in awe watching her cradle him, nurse him and how she seems to sit contently and patiently until he finishes. I am so happy that the zoo is concerning toward the bears comfort and to those of her baby. Being an animal lover, I feel such relief that the babies first exam is handled with sensitivity to the mother and baby. I will continue to watch every day and can’t wait to hear about the results of the exam!!
September 3rd, 2009 at 4:15 am
I know its been noted and stated before but Bai Yun is such a great mother.
I can’t help but feel awestruck at how she takes care of her baby. I know that God is in his heaven and smiling down on her and all the animals He created and watches over. How wonderful that He has given us these special “aminals” and wonderful that He has SDZ “appointed” to take care of them and share them with us.
God bless you for your work – the vets, keepers, narrators, grounds keepers, ticket agents, management, vendors, everybody associated with the SDZ.
I cannot wait to see the first baby exam.
And what is ZZ’s new talent. Love that panda girl too. And Su!!!
September 3rd, 2009 at 11:35 am
He is getting so big!!!!!!!!!!! Yikes hehehe Still wishful thinking on my part that ZZ has a baby brother. :p
September 3rd, 2009 at 6:21 pm
I just watched the baby boy’s first exam! oh my goodness he is so adorable!
Thank you everyone in SDZ for taking such good care of all the animals there!
September 4th, 2009 at 1:08 pm
I’m soooo excited to be a great grandma again! LOL
Watching Bai Yun and her latest cub is such a pleasure — I spend many hours per day! If only someone would clean MY den whenever I’m not here.
Love the San Diego Zoo and Wild Animal Park — have been out to the Park at least 150 times since 1996 … and when knee is good, will be back at both the Park and the Zoo.
Thank you for this incredible view into the world of Pandas!! (don’t like the new change on that page, however!!)
Gentle as you go,
Marny
September 4th, 2009 at 2:50 pm
Margaret #24:
Regarding a panda cub’s eyes and ears: I checked with our vet to make sure, and according to our records, a cub’s eyes and ears seem to start to open around the same time, about 1 1/2 months.
September 19th, 2009 at 5:17 pm
Hi,
We love watching Bai Yun and her baby cub grow bigger every day And thank you so much for giving us the oppurtunity to do so
We were wondering now that the baby is getting bigger, will they be moved into a larger den? And if so, when will that be?
Thank you!
Moderator’s note: We don’t have a larger den for them; as the cub gets more active, less time is spent in the den. Mother and cub are usually through with the denning phase by 90 to 100 days.
September 20th, 2009 at 7:34 am
excuse me if this question was asked before but if the panda lives in the wild where would she give birth? right now she and the cub are protected in the den and secluded thank you
Moderator’s note: A wild panda dam would make her den in a rocky outcrop on a mountainside.