6th Exam: Muscle Man
Posted at 1:28 pm October 8, 2009 by admin
Although sleepy during most of this morning’s veterinary checkup, our 9-week-old (64-day-old) giant panda cub was flexing the muscles in his arms as he lifted up his chest and head to take a look around.
Tracy Clippinger, D.V.M, San Diego Zoo senior veterinarian, says the 7.7-pound (3.5 kilogram) cub is very aware of his surroundings now that both his eyes and ears have fully opened. He is 21.3 inches (52.4 centimeters) long. She expects the cub to begin to crawl in the next two to six weeks as his muscles continue to develop.
“During the exams, we call the cub ‘little guy,’” said Tracy. “Beginning Saturday, you can visit the San Diego Zoo to help us name him.”
Visitors to the Zoo’s Giant Panda Research Station can suggest a name for the cub Saturday, October 10, through Monday, October 19. The names should be in Chinese (Pinyin), have an English translation and be symbolic in meaning. Suggestions for a name will also be accepted from a link on our Panda Cam page. The name will be announced at a ceremony on November 17.
More photos of the cub’s sixth exam in the Photo Gallery.
Watch video of the 6th exam.
Moderator’s note:
Members of our Panda Team have been doing their best to keep up with all of the questions posed by followers of Panda Cam. In an effort to help with the Panda Team’s workload, I will forward to the Team any questions I cannot answer, but only twice a week. And who knows? Perhaps your question can be the topic of a future post for all to enjoy and learn from! Thank you for your understanding. I hope you’ll continue to enjoy this forum for panda fans.
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October 8th, 2009 at 1:34 pm
7.7 pounds!! Wow, I bet someone at work he’d be 7.4 but he exceeded my expectations. A strong healthy boy cub…way to go Bai Yun who is obviously taking good care of the little guy!
October 8th, 2009 at 1:47 pm
Looks like our little bruiser is doing us all proud. He made up for his less than a pound gain from last week with a 1.3 pound gain this week! (Though last week’s exam might have been on a Tuesday? I forget.) In any case, I swear I can almost see him grow from minute to minute that I watch–and how great that he can both see and hear now!
Little guy was just looking outside the den, watching Bai, I think–and here she is. Time for a meal and a snuggle. Yay.
Moderator’s note: Yes, the cub DID have 2 more days to pack on the pounds.
October 8th, 2009 at 1:47 pm
AWW!! He’s getting bigger and bigger and cuter and cuter
October 8th, 2009 at 1:50 pm
Wow, he’s just growing by leaps and bounds. I really can’t call him Butter Dude anymore I guess since he’s now the size of several tubs of butter.
Thanks for the amazing pictures and the update. In picture #2 he really looks like he’s waving to all of his fans. I just love him.
October 8th, 2009 at 1:57 pm
Aww I wish I could visit the zoo! He is just too adorable and gets cuter and cuter. I watch him constantly!
October 8th, 2009 at 1:57 pm
I second what Frances said. It seems he’s growing minute by minute! I love this lil’ guy! Way to go Bai Yun! Gao Gao too! Good genes!
Hugs to you all- Pandas and workers!
ps- I”d love to give them each a pumpkin! The joys of Autumn & October!!
October 8th, 2009 at 1:58 pm
What a wonderful job mommy is doing with cubbie. You can see the love all around them. This is simply beautiful. I can hardly wait to see “little guy” crawl and learn to walk.
October 8th, 2009 at 1:59 pm
Thank you for the update on little mans most recent exam. As expected, we knew he’d continue to do well !
October 8th, 2009 at 1:59 pm
How do you say “Butterball Boy” in Chinese/Pinyin?
October 8th, 2009 at 2:08 pm
Wow! 7.7 pounds! He’s moving from “our little guy” to “our BIG guy”! Good work, Bai Yun!!!
October 8th, 2009 at 2:18 pm
Oh my Goodness…I just looked at the new pictures and he is the cutest thing. And I think we can still call him butter. He does look in pic #2 that he is waving to his fans. Bai is a great mom and she could teach a number of humans what it means to be a good mother.
I have been blessed to have been able to follow since his birth, and SDZ has done such a great job. Thank you for sharing this with us. It has made my life better just by watching and reading all the wonderful posts.
October 8th, 2009 at 2:18 pm
Are we going to see a video of the exam soon? I absolutely loved watching him interact in the last one (except for the shot, poor little guy!) I couldn’t help but go “aww”.
October 8th, 2009 at 2:20 pm
Oh, wow. What a dear, dear creature he is. Just this afternoon i could have sworn i saw him take some rudimentary “steps”… ::sniff:: why can’t they just stay young forever?
But It’s been such a thrill watching him grow. Now i understand all of the dedicated Su Lin and Zhen Zhen followers…! This little guy is one of my favorite parts of each day. Thanks, Panda Cam team and zoo staff!
Now: how do you say “Chubby Checker” in Pinyin?
October 8th, 2009 at 2:28 pm
He is so cute and his mother is awsome. She is an excellent mother and all of her cubs are a joy to watch
October 8th, 2009 at 2:29 pm
this morning the little cutie was laying on his back, flexing his paw and looked just like he was waving. And with that smiley face, what a cute picture that was.
October 8th, 2009 at 2:32 pm
I can’t wait to see the video. Watching him grow has been such a joy….he is so much a part of my daily life! Thank you all for allowing us this opportunity. Way to go Bai Yun….such a great mom!
October 8th, 2009 at 2:41 pm
Mona Brown, New Brunswick, Canada
I’m in love!!!!!! It is absolutely amazing to see the interaction between Mama and Baby. We could all take
lessons from this family.
They are too cute for words!!!!!
Many thanks to the staff, and for sharing this amazing journey, we watch you every day.
Bai, you go girl!!!!!!
October 8th, 2009 at 2:42 pm
“Moderator’s note:
Members of our Panda Team have been doing their best to keep up with all of the questions posed by followers of Panda Cam. In an effort to help with the Panda Team’s workload, I will forward to the Team any questions I cannot answer, but only twice a week. And who knows? Perhaps your question can be the topic of a future post for all to enjoy and learn from! Thank you for your understanding. I hope you’ll continue to enjoy this forum for panda fans.”
That makes perfect sense!
October 8th, 2009 at 2:43 pm
“CC” (a.k.a. chubby cubby) is looking as cute as ever! I can’t wait until he starts crawling! Thank you to the wonderful panda team at the zoo for all your hard work!
October 8th, 2009 at 2:52 pm
Bai Yun has sure done an amazing job with our Little Man. He seems so perfect, so gentle, so pure. And he just radiates good health and contentment with his place in the world. “Hats off” as always to the SDZ folks for keeping our precious Pandas (and all the other animals!) so happy, healthy and safe
Dern it , it sure is hard trying to pick out the right name. I am thinking something to do with “mountain” since he is growing so well. “Yuan Qi” is looking good too! It means – vitality and constitution; stamina; strength .
Ms Moderator, would you be so kind as to inquire about the possiblity of a Panda Family Tree for us ? It can be so confusing trying to remember all of the names, places and such etc. Thank you
Moderator’s note: More homework for me?! I’ll share your idea with the Panda Team.
October 8th, 2009 at 2:54 pm
He was sleeping curled up next to Bai Yun’s head this morning and it looked like he was almost as big as her head. If so, he is one “Gao” fellow. Somehow we need to have Gao in his name.
October 8th, 2009 at 2:54 pm
It is wonderful to see how Bai’s interactions with him changes as he gets older and stronger.
October 8th, 2009 at 3:16 pm
I started watching the live cam when chubby was born but I don’t know what we will do after he is grown. Do we still get to see the panda cam and what will we be seeing? Thank you all so much for bringing this wonderful animal into our lives.
Moderator’s note: As long as we have pandas, we’ll have Panda Cam focusing on them, no matter their age. You’ll have years of viewing ahead of you.
October 8th, 2009 at 3:20 pm
Oh he is so big and oh so cute!!!!
October 8th, 2009 at 3:24 pm
Don’t miss the article and video “I’m a giant panda, Help!” on the “Pandas Live On” website.
For comparison, at 64 days Xi Lan’s weight was 2.9 kg, Mei Lan’s weight was 3.3 kg at 65 days.
October 8th, 2009 at 3:26 pm
Thank you San Diego Zoo for the pandacam. I enjoy watching the pandas, especially baby boy panda. They are all so adorable.
October 8th, 2009 at 3:30 pm
The pics are adoreable, can’t wait for the video. Thank you, thank you……. He’s just adoreable, more so with each passing day………….Bai Yun is doing well too???
Moderator’s note: All is well for Bai Yun, too.
October 8th, 2009 at 3:31 pm
OK people let’s not do to the cub what we hate some parents do to their kids. And that’s give them a name that will make people laugh at him. Remember, he’ll go back to China, and they will know what his name is immediately! What is “Peaceful Giant” in Chinese?
October 8th, 2009 at 3:44 pm
This munchkin gets cuter and cuter. He looks so proud of himself up on his forearms. Judging from the “leg presses” I watched him doing the other day, I think he will be crawling sooner rather than later. Someone please give Bai Yun an extra special treat for being such an incredible mother. And lets not forget Gao Gao, I think our little boy resembles his daddy.
October 8th, 2009 at 3:54 pm
I live on the Gold Coast in Australia and have watched the panda cam forever and a day and just love it . It never fails to bring a smile on my face my baby Jack Russell loves to hear the baby noises and comes up to the computer to have a look. the baby panda is beautiful and I spend a few minutes a couple of times a day just looking ,the mother panda is a great mum.
thank you Pat
October 8th, 2009 at 4:04 pm
wow, he is getting so big. Its kinda wierd how little he looks on the cam and then see how big he really is during an exam. I am so glad my friend told me about the birth and the panda cam and I have been checking on him every day. I went to visit my sister in Rosamond, CA last week and she asked me what I would like to do while I was there and the first thing out of my mouth was that I wanted to go to the San Diego Zoo and see the pandas! So we drove to San Diego, went to Sea World one day and the Zoo the next day. We went to see the pandas twice. First time, Su Lin was hiding behind a tree sleeping and Zhen Zhen was up in a tree sleeping. Went back later and this time got a good look at them as they were both on the ground eating their bamboo. Unfortunately, my camera doesn’t have a zoom on it and the pics I took are not very good.
But I did buy a book in the gift shop, several postcards, a stuffed panda and a beautiful glass paperweight with a panda etched on it. So all in all, a wonderful experience.
Oh yeah, I am hoping someone can answer a question for me. I know from reading the panda blogs that Hua Mei and Mei Sheng were sent to China after their 4th b’days. Have read that Tai Shan and Su Lin will be sent to China soon now that they have turned 4 years old. So I am puzzled about why Zoo Atlanta says their Mei Lan is being sent soon to China when she has just turned 3 yrs. old. Why is she going so soon instead of waiting until she turns 4 next August? That upsets me because I was planning a trip next summer to Zoo Atlanta to see her and Xi Lan. Does anyone know why she is going to China a year earlier than the other American born cubs? I can’t find anywhere on Zoo Atlanta’s web page to ask questions.
Moderator’s note: Our agreement with China was to return Su Lin after her 3rd birthday. But China experienced a horrific earthquake last year that damaged their main panda facility. Plans to return Su Lin were put on hold until a different facility was opened. Hope this helps answer your question.
October 8th, 2009 at 4:04 pm
Soooo swetlly!!
Thanks zoo san Diego!!! The baby panda is my joy here in Brazil!!
love love love love it!
October 8th, 2009 at 4:23 pm
The Panda cub is so cute. Thanks for providing the video window into his progres for panda lovers to keep up with his progress.
October 8th, 2009 at 4:35 pm
awwww tiny most lovable, you are becoming such a strong big boy! yay pandababy!
October 8th, 2009 at 4:37 pm
A month or so ago, someone, in jest I think, suggested a name meaning “round and strong,” in Chinese. This seems to me to be a name to be considered. Is “Guin Guin” the right wording? Did anyone else see and remember this? Or if you are the person who posted that idea, could you clarify? Thank you.
And thank you, Panda Team, for your caringness to both pandas and pandacam addicts.
October 8th, 2009 at 4:37 pm
What a DOLL! I Love the new photos and cannot wait for the video
Today on You Tube, Doxiemom put up a video of Xi Lan and Lun Lun. It is titled: Xi Lan the energizer panda. Do not miss it 
You will be able to envision the future with Bai and Little One. 
October 8th, 2009 at 4:39 pm
cijiDunne #9, heather em #13, and ellen #28 – you can find pinyin translations at mandarinbook.info. Click on Chinese/English Dictionary. I couldn’t help it. I looked up your names and found that Butterball Boy would require a mouthful of words, no result for either chubby or checker, but Peaceful Giant is lovely – Mi Ju Ren. I would like to thank all of the people at the zoo and wild animal park who take the time and make the effort to enlighten us in the behaviors of all of the precious creatures in your care. Moderator, a special “thank you” to you. I know you moderate all of the blogs, not just the panda blogs, and you have to work overtime. Bless you, Sweetheart, and your understanding family. Well, here I am adding to your Herculean burden, so I’ll just go do something useful now.
October 8th, 2009 at 4:45 pm
7.7 pounds. He sure is getting big. Bai Yun is sure feeding him plenty. He is just a little cutie.
October 8th, 2009 at 5:04 pm
#20 Tiny, If you go to the “Pandas Live On” website, in the column on the right, go fairly low and you will find a section: “U.S. Panda Family Charts” with a connection for each of the four US Zoos having pandas. In each of these sites, you will find a family chart. You can save them as pictures and then compare them on your own computer to figure out the family connections between the different US panda families. The chart for the SDZ even gives the names of the three sets of twins that Hua Mei had in China and the names of two of the fathers, but not her last cub… Bai Yun’s new cub is not in yet. Have fun!!
Moderator’s note: You’re a lifesaver, Danielle!
October 8th, 2009 at 5:16 pm
Wow! 7.7 pounds! He is growing like crazy! I can’t wait for the video of the exam. He is adorable. Those legs and muscles have been busy all day. He wants to follow his mother and explore his world. I wonder if this is also a natural instinct on Bai’s part. The older he gets, the more time she spends out of the den. While it is definitely time out for her to take care of herself, eat, drink, etc., it is also a trigger to get the little one wishing he could follow his mommy around. It is going to be a joy to see him grow up and see what kind of personality he has, besides the rolly polly adorable “little one” that he already is!
October 8th, 2009 at 5:20 pm
“CHUBBY CUBBY”
(sung to the tune of “Rubber Duckie”)
Chubby Cubby you’re the one,
You make Panda Cam lots of fun,
Chubby Cubby we’re awfully fond of you!
Boo-boo-bi-doo!
Chubby Cubby joy of joys,
You’re the cutest little boy,
Chubby Cubby you’re our very best friend it’s true!
Ev’ry day when we watch our favorite cubby,
We see a little fellow who’s black and white and tubby,
Chub-a dub-cubby!
Chubby Cubby you’re so dear,
And we’re so happy that you’re here,
Chubby Cubby we’re awfully fond of…
Chubby Cubby we want a whole world of…
Chubby Cubby we’re awfully fond of you!
Boo boo-bi-doo!
This was originally inspired by Tai Shan, but he said it was okay to dedicate it out to his widdle cousin.
October 8th, 2009 at 5:27 pm
Way to go, my Mr. Roly-Poly Dude:-)!!! Hey, you and I can be on a contest on who gains the most pounds in a given week. It seems that since school started, I simply eat and eat and eat:-(. I am so happy that you are getting way bigger but as cute as ever. I would love to hug you…I am sure, the whole Panda Team can’t get enough of you. How lucky they all are:-).
I can’t wait to see all of you…
As always, thank you for the update, dear Admin. Also, dear moderator, thank you very much for your patience in reading all of our posts. I am pretty sure, you are getting swamped nowadays. Just take it easy…we all understand.
THANK YOU…THANK YOU…THANK YOU COUNTLESS OF TIME, SDZ.
October 8th, 2009 at 5:30 pm
Regarding #11-Julie’s comment on pic #2, I wasn’t sure if he was waving to his fans, or giving the “talk to the paw, no autographs, please” pose.
7.7 pounds is quite impressive. Thanks, Bai Yun, for the great start for this little champ.
October 8th, 2009 at 6:00 pm
awwww…..thanks for the update. What a little doll he is ! How can you guys not want to just pass him around and give him cuddles and kisses? Can’t wait til he starts scootin’ around. And I was thinking the same thing Phyllis – a little Gao but then again, I’m a bit partial toward the stufmuffin.
October 8th, 2009 at 6:14 pm
The thought of this little guy being referred to as “Muscle Man” made me smile.
The photos are wonderful! Thanks! I love the expression on his face as he’s looking out over the blanket in photo #4. He’s destined to be a distuinguished panda sage, just like his wise papa.
October 8th, 2009 at 6:21 pm
For the nth time, what a great job Bai Yun and the Giant Panda Research Crew is doing ….. unbelievable …. I once again nominate Bai as the “Mother of the Year” …..
October 8th, 2009 at 6:23 pm
lol, “Muscle Man”, the title make me laugh….one very sexy muscle man.
October 8th, 2009 at 6:35 pm
I absolutely love his eyes!!
October 8th, 2009 at 6:37 pm
Wow, didn’t realize I’ve been studying Momma and baby for over 1/2 hour, not so bad, but I’m still at work….ssssh!
I know this gets repeated over and over, but that momma. How many other mothers in the zoo are as attentive? In this world? The patience she has, just sitting there, shifting baby boy from one arm to the other, one breast to the other, patiently watching, you know, lovingly. She thoroughly loves being a momma. Hours and hours of love. She watches him at her bosom and waits, looks around, wiggles her toes, looks up, pants…that kind of scares me, she seems to pant quite heavily. I am sure that every one of us would watch all night and all day if it were possible, I know I sure would…
It looked like momma just swiped at the camera above….does she see any light at all? She senses something going on up there, for sure!
October 8th, 2009 at 6:54 pm
Moderator and #20 Tina
There is a family tree of the San Diego Zoo Pandas at “Pandas Live On” – July 18,2009.
So, no new homework !
Thank you so much for providing the best entertainment and info! I always look forward to the serenity I enjoy by taking part in a fascinating adventure of nature. I love them all! And am grateful to the staff that has a calling on their lives to protect and discover their deserved future!
Moderator’s note: Thanks, DJ!
October 8th, 2009 at 7:06 pm
“Ms Moderator, would you be so kind as to inquire about the possiblity of a Panda Family Tree for us ? It can be so confusing trying to remember all of the names, places and such etc. Thank you
“Moderator’s note: More homework for me?! I’ll share your idea with the Panda Team.”
Wouldn’t it make more sense for a Giant Panda Family Tree to be made at one of the Chinese centers like Bifengxia or Wolong instead of a foreign one like SDZ or Chiang Mai? Some of the people working on giant panda conservation in China probably already have a database of this stuff (in order to make sure there’s no inbreeding, like the Species Survival Plans that American and Canadian zoos have for other endangered species). Making a Family Tree would probably be a lot easier for someone who already has access to that database.
Moderator’s note: I believe the suggestion was to have some type of panda family tree available on our Web site. We’ll see…
October 8th, 2009 at 7:17 pm
The baby boy is getting his muscles ready for when he has to show off to all the ladies! I think sometimes I see him trying to do push ups. Maybe he is getting strong so he can wiggle hard when someone tries to give him those shots. Dont worry little guy I dont like shots either. Thanks for the panda staff for all that you do for all the pandas.
October 8th, 2009 at 8:13 pm
#20 Tiny – the Pandas Live On website has the family trees for the four U.S. zoos. The links are on the home page, right side, about three quarters of the way down, under U.S. Panda Family Charts.
October 8th, 2009 at 8:14 pm
i think this lil guy has his big bro mei sheng’s smile.
gov. arnold s. has nothing on our lil muscle man.our prince is just a little shorter in stature.
what a guy!
hugs,
joan
painted post, n.y.
October 8th, 2009 at 8:18 pm
yes he sure is a cutie pie
October 8th, 2009 at 8:42 pm
OMG!! WOW!!! Nearly 8 pounds!! He’s done some weight gain this last week! Haven’t seen the pics just yet, but will get to it. Just watching this little guy on the cam tells me that he’s done some growing!Waiting for the video of the cub’s exam to come in.
Just looked in on the pandacam, and it is working good. Just watched Bai taking care of her little guy.
Gonna go for now. Had a long day today. Will be back on the pandacams tomorrow!
Chari Mercier
St. Pete, FL
PS: What was the cub’s length measurements? Curious to see if he’s done any growing length wise!
Moderator’s note: I’ll add that to the post. He is 21.3 inches (52.4 centimeters) long.
October 8th, 2009 at 9:01 pm
Thanks again for another informative update –
I have not been able to find any info why the pandas have only been found in China – any help???
dear moderator, thanks for trying to keep up with all our questions & concerns
Be sure to check pandasliveon(dot)com – there is info there about our beloved pandas from milllions of years ago – we cannot let this species become extinct
October 8th, 2009 at 9:29 pm
after coffee, the next thing I do is go to the computer and see what baby and mom are doing. I also look
in the afternoon and in the evening, I can’t get enough of him
I thank theSDZ for all info and keeping us inform.
October 8th, 2009 at 9:55 pm
Hi Deb(#41):
Thank you for sharing the song.
“Chubby Cubby” is fast asleep now:-). Oh, he is soooooooooo cute: sleeping on this tummy:-). Momma Bai must be having late snack.
I just can’t believe how I become a part of his life. Su might be my first baby panda, but I have never been this cazy watching the cam till Bai’s 5th baby was born. Now, watching the cam is an everyday part of my whole family’s life:-).
Goodnigth little one….Sweet, Sweet Dreams…
October 8th, 2009 at 11:36 pm
#20 Tiny’s idea of a Panda Family Tree sounds good. I could do with some help too.
Moderator, you must go to bed and dream of panda blog replies (that is if you ever go to bed, as you are always here helping us!)
October 8th, 2009 at 11:42 pm
OK, just read #39 Danielle’s post about the family tree. Thanks Danielle. You are saved dear Moderator!
October 9th, 2009 at 12:41 am
Thanks for the update! I’m a fan from Finland and I can’t help but check out several times a day how our little roly-poly and mummy are doing. It is so great that we are able to see that little guy grow up even from a distance this far. Thanks SDZ!
October 9th, 2009 at 3:08 am
The Panda Cub is so amazing to watch….I am completely taken by watching his growth and his interaction with his Mother…what is so astounding is knowing that the Giant Panda is a solitary creature and that the Mother has such a close bond at this time with her Cub and how she goes about responding to his needs with her Motherly love and instincts….I love watching how she holds him when they sleep….but now that he can see and hear it will be fascinating to see how things are going to progress once he starts crawling and responding to his environment…Thanks for making all of this possible…by watching every day, one becomes part of all of this and it possesses you to keep watching..
Suzie Wolkoff
October 9th, 2009 at 3:20 am
I went to the Pandas Live On website, thanks so much for this link. I just printed out the family charts for each zoo. For NZ it shows that Mei Xiang is related to Pan Pan and I had thought it was Tian. It doesn’t look like any of the Memphis Pandas are related to SD or NZ or AT. If Ya Ya has a cub next year (fingers and toes and eyes crossed) and it is a girl, could she be mated with little Gao Yun even though they are from different research centers. Any female born to Ya Ya would unfortunately be too old for my first born son Tai Shan. Hua Mei has turned out to be a fantastic mommie, lots of babies. Susie Q has a bright and happy future even though far away from us.
October 9th, 2009 at 3:37 am
Teresa #31 — Both Mei Lan and Fu Long (Vienna) belong to Chengdu rather than BFX and these centers are run by two different entities in China. Chengdu has requested them back. Su and Tai will return to BFX when the time comes.
Our little kidlet is really growing by leaps and bounds. All too soon he’ll be able to do just that. Having watched Bai with all 5 of her cubs, I never cease to be amazed at her mothering skills with each of her off-spring. My hope is that Hua Mei will be able to one day mother her cub to weaning. I understand why China separates cubs and mothers, but hopefully soon there will be a big enough captive population to sustain itself in the natural, panda way. Thank you SDZ.
October 9th, 2009 at 5:34 am
No mention on if he was vocal this time and nothing noted about shots either… So.. did you all stick him again? How often does he get shots? I know with my children it seemed like for the first few years everytime I took them to the doctor they were getting stuck with something. Same thing with my puppies. How many shots total do they get? And odd question but do they ever get shots to protect them from something one of you all may carry?
Moderator’s note: I can provide some answers: I was told the cub was pretty quiet during his 6th exam and he did not receive any shots this time.
October 9th, 2009 at 5:35 am
#35 Corene: In China, Guin Guin (滚滚）is a common loving nickname for all the pandas. When you say Guin Guin, people will know you mean a panda. However, I think this dude needs a official school name, a very manly name……I am thinking hard…..
—Mei Chen (美晨 beautiful morning or American morning), he was born in the early morning and also after his brother MeiSheng
—Mei Xing (美星 beaugiful star or American star), since mom dragged him for stargaze so early.
Just so many beautiful things for this little cutie!
October 9th, 2009 at 5:44 am
Teresa #31: Atlanta Zoo does not have the room to house 4 pandas separately hence the reason Mei Lan is going to China earlier. Xi Lan is due to be weaned soon and once he does he will require his own space which is the space Mei Lan is currently occupying. The way I understand it is there are 2 climate controlled rooms and 1 outdoor space which they are all rotated through right now otherwise they would be in the back in their rooms. Because Xi is still with his mama the three areas can accommodate Yang, Mei Lan and of course Lun and Xi Lan. It’s the same reason Fu Long in Vienna has to go to China at 2 years of age, they only have space for 2 pandas from what I’ve read. If I’m wrong, feel free to correct me but that was what I was able to find out online from various sources.
October 9th, 2009 at 6:08 am
Wow Mr. Chubbie Cubbie is progressing beautifully thanks to his terrific mom our beautiful Bai Yun.
Thanks for the update. Can’t wait to see the list of names!
October 9th, 2009 at 6:24 am
The tenderness between momma and baby is quite remarkable. Talk about an “aw” moment. THey are constant when I watch the pandacam. This baby has such a huge personality! Almost makes me want to go and live in a jungle with these amazing creatures.
October 9th, 2009 at 6:28 am
Whoa – Little Big Man is growing into his tummy!!! After viewing the most recent pictures of the exam, I had to revisit the first pictures – he is growing by leaps and bounds!! That means he’s got a great mom, great staff, great appetite and is is GREAT!!! Thanks for the update and all have a wonderful day!
October 9th, 2009 at 6:39 am
#49 Kat
Praising Bai Yun is worth repeating. We are ALL fascinated with the strength of her love and devotion to her little guy. In regards to Bai Yun being aware of the camera, I remember the moderator commenting that the camera makes a small sound that might catch Bai’s attention from time to time.
#48-Patricia
I couldn’t agree with you more about his eyes. They seem to speak to me (I’m sure others feel the same). Even Dr. Meg commented about them in one of the exams, so we are not alone in thinking them special. They are just so darn expressive, aren’t they?
To who(m)ever has the honor of handling our little “muscle man” next–
I know you can’t give the little sweetheart kisses, but could you give him a little gentle squeeze from “Aunt Phyllis” in NJ? I would give anything just to hold him for a minute, even though I understand why we can’t. My husband thinks I’m a little strange for how attached I feel to him and his mommy. That’s o.k., I’m sure the rest of you pandaholics understand.
Moderator and SDZ staff–
OMG moderator, I never realized you handle the questions for other animals and not just the pandas, (which is overwhelming enough). Thank you beyond words, please do something special for yourself, you DEFINITELY deserve it. God Bless You and the rest of the SDZ staff for the incredible job you are doing caring for some of God’s greatest gifts to us.
Moderator’s note: You are most welcome, Phyllis!
October 9th, 2009 at 6:40 am
Too cute. Like a big love bug . I am glad he is doing well and mom as well. All of you are doing a great job. I love to watch the panda cam. I Can not wait for the naming of baby. I glad the exams are going well. Pandas are very special to me I have panda tattoo No my back. Pandas are way cool.
October 9th, 2009 at 6:45 am
I was watching the Panda Cam one night & it looked like he was sucking on his “thumb”. Does he suck his “thumb”? It has been amazing to watch him grow.
October 9th, 2009 at 6:46 am
i wonder why Baiyun sometimes dig the den floor, i observed that behaviou several times after the cub was born. yesterday cam stream around 06:50:11, Baiyun started digging den floor and made herself and the cub burried by bamboo,why she did that, if she dislikes the floor covered by bamboo stick, if she feels uncomfortable about the floor, or she feels hot on that bamboo layer. i wonder.
Moderator’s note: Bai Yun does some den cleaning each morning. She is just making sure everything is as it should be.
October 9th, 2009 at 6:49 am
The blue blanket that he is carried around with as a cub. I know it is for the smells while he is being examined… however, does it help? Also, women have a 6 week check up after we have a baby. Do you all plan on doing one on the MOMMY OF THE YEAR any time soon? And if you do… Do you knock her out for it and do a FULL exam on the baby while you have her under? She is getting “up there” in age and I would hate for anything hidden to be wrong. She has the prettiest eyes of them all! Any shot in one of you sneaking a picture of her face up close so we can see better??
Moderator’s note: We would not do an exam on Bai Yun while she has a cub in her care unless the Panda Team felt it was warranted.
October 9th, 2009 at 6:50 am
Holy cow, mama Bai is one busy Panda this AM. She is making me tired watching her redo her den, lol. I finally got to see the rolly polly scoot along yesterday, how cute was that. I love to watch the Panda Cam and it is the first thing I check in the morning. Thank you so much SDZ and everyone, you are the best.
October 9th, 2009 at 7:07 am
Maybe others have seen this before but I haven’t. I’ve noticed (like everyone else) that Bai seems to be leaving her little one alone quite a bit more this week. I think I may have just witnessed why. As usual, Bai did her impressive “house-cleaning”, fresh bamboo was brought in, stripped, fluffed, etc. After making a very comfortable looking bed for the two of them, she attempted to lie down with her babe and rest. He wouldn’t have it. No matter what position she placed him in, even with her arm gentle cuddling him, I could see his little hind legs squirming and kicking up a storm. After a few attempts, she got up slowly and walked out of the den leaving the munchkin alone on his tummy. After a bit more squirming, he stopped, put his little head down, and went to sleep. Once again, Mommy knows best how to handle her boy. Since this is my first experience, I am thrilled with the thought of being able to watch the interaction between these two as our little boy grows into the impressive “man” he is sure to become.
October 9th, 2009 at 7:12 am
Thank you, thank you, SDZ. Little moments of joy throughout the day!
Will there be a video of the 6th exam?
Moderator’s note: It will be posted today.
October 9th, 2009 at 7:13 am
Now who do you think our big boy looks most like? Mom or Dad? Bai may be getting older but she is still putting out strong, healthy babies. Our boy is going to be a fine looking panda and I think the care he gets from his mother and the care both of them get from SDZ staff reinforces that. You must be so proud.
October 9th, 2009 at 7:19 am
He’s just the cutest little thing I’ve ever seen, wish I could go to San Diego when he gets bigger, Can’t wait to see his exam video, I love watching him and listening to his grunts, I watch him constantly and have seen all the videos of him, I can’t get enough of him, he makes my day, I just love him, it must be hard not to pick him up and cuddle and kiss him, thanks for posting his updates and videos, it’s the hightlight of my day
October 9th, 2009 at 7:19 am
Thanks for the Chubby Cubby song, Deb! Thanks, too, to Tai Shan for allowing you to dedicate it to the new baby
October 9th, 2009 at 7:40 am
#45 Melissa
When you look into his eyes, you think our boy will become a “distinguished panda sage?”
Actually, what I see are “bedroom eyes!” Or, maybe I should say “den eyes!” Aren’t they seductive? I want to just throw myself at him (or write a romance novel!).
October 9th, 2009 at 7:45 am
I also think an SDZ panda family tree would be a welcomed addition to the website…someday.
I know that Bai Yun is related to Tian Tian and that Mei Xiang and Lun Lun are sisters, but is Bai related in any way to either Yang Yang or Lun Lun? If not, maybe Xi Lan and Zhen Zhen could be panda partners someday. We’re all determined to get at least two of the American-born offspring together!
Moderator, do you know how long Bai got to stay with her mom when she was a cub at Wolong?
Moderator’s note: I’ll forward this question to the Panda Team.
October 9th, 2009 at 8:14 am
I would just like to compliment your staff on such a great job they have all done.I live in Phoenix,Arizona and our zoo is quite small compared to SDZ,and we dont have my favorite of all which is Pandas of course.It is an experience to be able to watch them on your web cam and I look forward to watching the growth of the Bai yun’s handsome little fella. There is one thing I was curious about,that being, how does Bai Yun react when she sees her little guy going out of her site for his exams with the doctor?
Moderator’s note: She doesn’t see him taken to his exam, as she is in another room with a fresh supply of bamboo and treats.
October 9th, 2009 at 8:20 am
The cam is currently showing Bai Yun munching on her breakfast. She’s eating the stems and discarding the leaves. Do pandas ever eat the leaves?
Moderator’s note: Yes. See our Giant Panda fact sheet for more info.
October 9th, 2009 at 8:26 am
Xianohan #67, I like your name ideas!
Early, early this morning, I’m sitting on the floor watching the news on two TVs, reading the newspaper, having a cup of coffee, and I look up, and guess who was on? Our big guy in all his glory. The anchors were just oooing and awing about him. I watched it twice. He’s a regular now on the news and newspaper in Sacramento after every exam.
October 9th, 2009 at 9:11 am
I love how chubby our little boy has gotten! He is so precious, especially those black areas around his mouth. So very precious indeed.
I’ve been thinking on the names and done some research. I like these. Let me know what you all think. (I hope I get this right, I’m not that good with languages other than English.)
After mom and dad: Gao Yun – big cloud
Wei Sheng – Greatness is born
Jun Jie – handsome and outstanding
Ming Xia – bright glow
Hong Hui – great splendor
Chang Ming – forever bright
October 9th, 2009 at 9:14 am
Panda Cam is down ! Going through withdrawls !
Moderator’s note: Try again…
October 9th, 2009 at 9:20 am
Right now on Cam 2 – it looks like Su Lin might be able to cross the fence and get out if she tried. Is that a possibility or is that just the way the camera hits??? She’s pretty sitting up there.
Moderator’s note: It’s just the camera view.
October 9th, 2009 at 9:24 am
Moderator, I think you meant me when you said no more questions!!!
I am just overly curious. (It’s the baby’s fault!)
Moderator’s note: I just meant that questions might not get answered as quickly as before, as our Panda Team is so busy. Panda cubs always bring out the curious in each of us!
October 9th, 2009 at 10:10 am
#31, Theresa…
Su Lin will be going to a different facility in China. AZ works with the Chengdu Research Center, while SDZ and NZ work with the center that was located at Wolong.
October 9th, 2009 at 10:19 am
Lisa T. #88–I think those are all great names, but I am really leaning towards Gao Yun to honor the parents. It will be interesting to see what some of the other entries are.
Peggy #80–as I said in one of the earlier blogs, I think cubmuffin looks exactly like a tiny Gao Gao (like he got left out in the rain and shrank).
Just can’t wait for that exam video!
October 9th, 2009 at 10:22 am
#88 Lisa…I was also thinking of the name Hong Hui for Mr. Cub.
The photo on this post keeps reminding me of Superman flying through the air. I can almost picture the cub with a little cape on his back.
October 9th, 2009 at 11:41 am
How adorable and how he’s growing! I look forward to watching every day.
October 9th, 2009 at 12:05 pm
The video is posted! What a beautifil baby! His eyes are just incredible! I loved that big yawn.
October 9th, 2009 at 12:06 pm
#88 Lisa — very interesting. Last night at dinner with other panda aficionados, I suggested Gao Yun (Big Cloud) which of course in an amalgamation of Bai Yun and Gao Gao. I thought this was particularly apropos since this may be the last cub of this wonderful panda pair and we should commemorate the fact that they have produced four beautiful offspring — all under natural cover no less. There are probably not many panda couples even in Wolong that have had such good fortune.
Bai Yun was given her name because as a cub she would climb high in the trees and all her keepers could see was a fluffy white bottom — hence “white cloud.” Surely this little guy will look like a “big cloud” when he masters climbing.
October 9th, 2009 at 12:40 pm
I love the name Gao Yun as well. But for me, right now, he is still Chubby Cubby, and during the video of his sixth exam, I was so happy I almost cried. Just love him so much. His big brother, Mei Sheng, was “my first panda cub” and I can’t believe I’m actually more excited about this one. Maybe it’s because he’s Bai Yun’s last baby, or maybe just because I’m getting old, but it’s so exciting to see his progress. Thanks, SDZ.
October 9th, 2009 at 12:44 pm
He is just adorable. They do grow so fast. It won’t be long before this not so little guy will be chasing after his mom. Many fun times await us all. Thank you all at San Diego Zoo for the privilege of watching these beautiful creatures grow.
October 9th, 2009 at 1:01 pm
There are actually no words to describe how cute and huggable he is! His little paw pads and nose! I wish I had the opportunity to visit the zoo.
October 9th, 2009 at 1:46 pm
#78 Phyllis I too, have witnesses this. However, I think this chubby little guy is just getting sooo big, Bai Yun can’t cuddle him like she used to, and it takes longer for them to get comfortable. Furthermore, I’ve noticed that she tends to just come in and wake him from a dead sleep, as though she’s decided it’s time for him eat? That’s when he looks like he’s not having any part of it. Imagine being woken up, put through the spin cycle a few times, then told to eat?! Yuk! That’s when I usually see him kick & struggle to get away. Then when she can’t console him, she does what any good mother does, and walks away to let him have his little fit. He almost always goes right back to sleep. Perhaps he’s just starting to show some independence. That is my interpretation, anyway. I guess we’ll never know. Unless however, the panda team speaks panda and can ask for us. But who could blame Bai Yun for waking her cub?! There’s nothing sweeter than a sleeping baby!
As for this roly poly, I give him one more week and he’ll be crawling out that den. I swear, if that doorway was clear, he might have made it through today! He still needs to coordinate his arms & legs though. Sometimes the “Butterball” gets the same arm & leg moving, and over he goes. If he were to just grew more in length this week, and packed on less belly fat, he’d be up and running for sure.
#67 XIAOHAN I absolutely LOVE the names you’ve chosen, and their meanings! I like Mei Xing; American Star best but Mei Chen; American Morning is just a good. I can’t imagine them not making “the list”. I mean if we have to give this little guy back to China, he should have the translation “American” in his name. No, he’s not our first panda baby, but definitely the most followed.
Panda moderator & team, You’re the best! How does it feel to be LOVED and appreciated by sooo many?!? Pretty good, I imagine! You deserve it!!! XOXO
October 9th, 2009 at 2:34 pm
I had dim sum yesterday in honor of the little guy, and I’m sure there’s some Chinese name that basically means “cute little dumpling” — or maybe “cute little dumpling with claws”!
October 9th, 2009 at 3:25 pm
Hes so strong i cant believe he weights 7.7 pounds already hes gonnaq be a bigg panda!!
October 9th, 2009 at 4:28 pm
#101 Aunt Nancy
I think you may have misunderstood me. When I said our little munchkin “wouldn’t have it” when Bai Yun tried to lay down and rest with him this morning, I didn’t mean to imply he was upset in any way or was having a “little fit”. It looked to me like he was full of energy and eager to explore and wasn’t quite ready for a nap. I love the fact that (like any good aunt) you were ready to defend his actions though. I would have done the same if I thought someone was picking on him:-). I agree with you totally about his being on the verge of crawling. He came so close the other day while I was watching him, I sat holding my breathe.
Aren’t we just lucky beyond words to be able to share in all of this?!?! I know it makes my day, I’ve watched the exam video posted today 5 times already. I just can’t get over how beautiful he is.
I’m closing for tonight. Goodnight fellow pandaholics and hugs and kisses to Bai Yun and baby boy.
October 9th, 2009 at 8:31 pm
Regarding the U. S. Family Charts on the Pandasliveon website: Isn’t there an error in the National Zoo chart? We know that Tian Tian & Bai Yun share the same father, Pan Pan. The chart there needs to be compared with the correct one on the National Zoo website.
October 10th, 2009 at 3:08 am
First of all, thank you panda team for another informative blog and the video and photos of the little man. You are truly doing an outstanding job. As I said before he reminds me of one of my many panda plush toys, soooo cute and lovable!!! Bai Yun has certainly – as always – been doing an excellent job. He looks so round and well-fed. #41 Deb, thank you for sharing the sweet song. #67Xiaohan, very good names, I fancy Mei Xing. But the other ones are also very suitable for our little chubby boy.#88 Lisa, Gao Yun sounds very good. Well, it is not easy choosing a really appropriate name for “Snuggles” as I have been calling him so far. #93 Frances, you made me laugh “…like he had shrunk in the rain”. I also think once they have reached his current age all the pandas start looking like a real panda just in a mini version.
October 10th, 2009 at 5:45 am
Moderator, I don’t think anyone was suggesting more work for you about Family Tree. I am certain that “official” information exists, and that I have seen it somewhere other than Pandas Live On. We are asking if anyone knows where to find the information so WE can do OUR homework. You have done more than your share of providing detailed answers to hundreds of questions over the past two months and your fingers and wrists deserve a break while pandaholics do their research.
October 10th, 2009 at 6:10 am
Reference the U.S. Family Charts on Pandasliveon website: I have contacted and heard back from Dee. She acknowledges the error and will make the correction. She said she will also update the SDZ family with Hua Mei’s new cub, and of course she and all of us are anxiously awaiting a name for “little guy,” so he will be on there soon.
October 10th, 2009 at 8:23 am
He is just getting sooooooo big, soooooo fast ! =)
October 10th, 2009 at 1:09 pm
Interesting note: my friend from Beijing said that Gao Gao translates more to “tall” rather than “big” as we have interpreted it.
I’d like to name our baby after his fabulous father…
October 11th, 2009 at 12:59 pm
i’m not sure where we can suggest cub names. i like “yiyou” or “mei yiyou” which i think means “helpful friend or wise companion” or”american helpful friend or wise companion” thank you
October 11th, 2009 at 1:43 pm
It’s Sunday the 11th where is the link on the cam page for the pandas name?
October 11th, 2009 at 2:27 pm
Sunday about 2:15, BABY CUB TOOK a STEP !! a wobbly crawl step and like his head is too heavy but he moved about a couple inches from mom after just taking a snack, and mom taking a nap, both looking out the door to den, I have to keep watching….HE TOOK A STEP !!!
October 11th, 2009 at 7:03 pm
OMG, I was away for a few days and had withdraw from chublet! He is getting huge! The exam video is precious as usual. Bai is the best mom ever. I cannot get enough of watching them. I have been also thinking of names and there are so many. What if we told China we were just not going to give them back! (Just kidding!) I know that as they grow they want to breed them out of their own family tree. Hopefully all this hard work and exposure can bring this species back from the brink. SDZ, you people are wonderful, and moderator thanks again. Well, back to Pandacam, Bai just took chublet out stargazing so who knows when they will return. I am glad to hear that Bai seems to be quite healthy also, we all worry about her, she seems happy and content.
October 12th, 2009 at 8:56 am
I agree with 112. carol and 112. Zach Olson….. where is the link for the naming?
Moderator’s note: The link is on the upper left of the Panda Cam page. For those of you anxious to get your name submitted as you read this, click here.
October 12th, 2009 at 9:23 am
oooohhhh….. nvm i see it
October 12th, 2009 at 3:03 pm
Have been checking on “Baby Muscle Boy” and he has been sleeping all day. I hope he is feeling okay?
Hardly moves & I haven’t seen Mom either. I suppose this is normal???? Just worried about him.
Carolyn
October 13th, 2009 at 2:36 pm
My gosh….I had to scroll and scroll and scroll to get to the comment box? Our family sure has grown….
Baby Huey is totally exhausted from wrestling with his mommie as he tried to scoot she kept pulling him back. He sure is a cutie… can someone tell me where I can find Chinese names and meanings…I know what the meaning I am looking for but now I need a name…any suggestions is greatly appreciated…Tami
October 14th, 2009 at 11:37 am
#74
Shawna (Texas)
We don’t know if he’s been sucking his thumb, but we’ll keep an eye out.
#84
Melissa
Bai Yun stayed with her mom for about seven months.