If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to be a panda living a life of quiet elegance and gentle charm, then Zi Yan (紫烟/Ziyan) might just steal your heart. Born in the misty landscapes of Ya’an in 2009, his striking “saddle face” and tranquil demeanor have made him a beloved figure. With a nickname like “Carrot Crusher” and an affinity for the simple joys of life, he’s a true homebody at heart, yet his story is filled with unexpected twists and tender moments.
Basic Information
- Name: Zi Yan (紫烟)
- Meaning of the Name: Purple Mist
- Gender: Male
- Date of Birth: August 14, 2009
- Place of Birth: Ya’an Bifengxia Base, China Giant Panda Protection and Research Center
- Pedigree Number: 752
- Mother: Zi Zhu (紫竹)
- Father: Xi Meng (希梦)
Intriguing Details of Panda Zi Yan
Lineage: Zi Yan’s mother, Zi Zhu, was rescued in 2005 in Pingwu County. At the time, Zi Zhu had suffered a spinal injury, which left her hind legs paralyzed, unable to stand or walk. After receiving medical treatment, she fully recovered. In 2009, Zi Zhu gave birth to Zi Yan, her only offspring. Unfortunately, Zi Zhu passed away in 2012 at the Ya’an base.
Appearance and Personality: Zi Yan has large, upward-slanting dark eye patches, a slender body, and well-defined muscle lines. He is often described as having a “saddle face.” His temperament is gentle, and he behaves elegantly, making him a typical homebody. If the gate to his enclosure is closed, he stays near the entrance; if the gate is open, he prefers to stay inside his den and doesn’t like to explore the outside world. He also has a particular fondness for carrots, earning the nickname “Carrot Crusher.”
Life Experience of Panda Zi Yan
Early Years: Zi Yan spent his early childhood at the Ya’an Bifengxia Base, growing up under the care of his mother, Zi Zhu.
First Exchange: On September 21, 2011, Zi Yan was sent to the Shanghai Wild Animal Park with two other pandas, Xing Hui (星辉) and Xing Rui (星睿), for an exhibition and cooperative exchange, becoming a new member of the park.
Return to Base: After two years, on September 29, 2013, Zi Yan returned to the Ya’an Bifengxia Base, concluding his time in Shanghai.
Second Exchange: On February 15, 2014, he was relocated to the Sanjiang Ecotourism Area for another exhibition and exchange program.
Stable Life: On April 12, 2015, Zi Yan moved to the Wolong Shenshuping Base, neighbouring Xiao Qi Ji (小奇迹), a panda returning from America.
