Bai Yun (白云), a prominent female giant panda, has a remarkable story that encapsulates the success of panda conservation efforts and the importance of international cooperation. Born on September 7, 1991, at the China Giant Panda Protection and Research Center in the Wolong Nature Reserve, Bai Yun has had a profound impact on both the conservation of giant pandas and the bond between China and the United States. Her journey from a lively cub to a loving mother and international ambassador reflects not only her unique personality but also the dedication of researchers and caregivers working to protect this endangered species. Over the years, Bai Yun has become a beloved figure, representing hope and friendship between nations.
Basic Information
- Name: Bai Yun (白云)
- Gender: Female
- Lineage Number: 371
- Date of Birth: September 7, 1991
- Place of Birth: Walnut Flat Wild Training Base, China Giant Panda Protection and Research Center
- Father: Panda Pan Pan (盼盼)
- Mother: Panda Dong Dong (冬冬)
- Twin Sister: Lu Di (绿地)
Growth and Breeding
Development Journey:
Bai Yun’s birth marked a significant milestone, ending a decade-long period during which no giant pandas were successfully bred in captivity at the Wolong base. She was the first surviving cub to reach reproductive age, paving the way for future breeding efforts.
As a young panda, Bai Yun was playful and energetic, but as she matured, her personality softened. She became gentle and attentive, maintaining a clean and tidy living space within her enclosure, demonstrating her natural maternal instincts.
Breeding Success:
Bai Yun has an impressive breeding record, having given birth to six litters of six cubs, all of which survived.
Her offspring include her daughter Hua Mei (华美), born in 1999 to the male panda Shi Shi (石石), and five cubs fathered by Gao Gao (高高): Mei Sheng (美生) (2003), Su Lin (苏琳) (2005), Zhen Zhen (珍珍) (2007), Yun Zi (云子) (2009), and Xiao Liwu (小礼物) (2012).
Among her cubs, Hua Mei holds a special place as the first giant panda born abroad to return to China, symbolizing the friendship between China and the United States.
International Exchange
Journey to the United States:
On September 10, 1996, Bai Yun and the male panda Shi Shi moved to the San Diego Zoo, beginning a 23-year journey abroad.
During her time in the United States, Bai Yun and Gao Gao successfully mated, resulting in the birth of five cubs. Their successful breeding partnership played a crucial role in enhancing panda conservation efforts and collaboration between the two countries.
Return to China:
Bai Yun returned to China on May 16, 2019, along with her cub Xiao Liwu, after their protection loan agreement expired. This marked Bai Yun’s first return to her homeland after 23 years, and it was also Xiao Liwu’s first experience on Chinese soil.
Upon their return, Bai Yun and Xiao Liwu underwent a month-long quarantine period, during which they adapted well to their new environment, diet, and climate in Sichuan.
Special Events
On March 13, 2011, Bai Yun was involved in an incident where she accidentally bit a caretaker. The incident occurred when Bai Yun pushed open the gate and attempted to climb out. The caretaker, trying to coax her back, was bitten in the process. Fortunately, the injured caretaker was quickly treated at the hospital and was not in life-threatening condition.
