On October 8, a netizen posted a video on a social media platform showing a drone suddenly flying into the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding for filming, scaring the well-known giant pandas “Huahua” and “Heye.” A staff member knocked the drone down with a pole. On October 9, a staff member from the Chengdu Giant Panda Breeding Base told reporters that the base is a no-fly zone, and the issue will be reported and dealt with.
According to the video shared by the netizen, the drone scared the giant pandas, causing them to hide or climb trees. A staff member used a long pole to knock the drone down, and nearby visitors cheered. It was reported by a netizen that the incident occurred at Giant Panda Villa No. 6, and the famous giant pandas “Huahua” and “Heye” were frightened by the drone. The personnel involved were found by the park’s staff.
The related video sparked widespread attention online, and many netizens expressed disgust at the behavior. Some comments included: “There are always people who like to break the rules,” “Drones are extremely noisy, with four high-speed fans making a loud buzzing sound, like a swarm of mosquitoes around you,” and “Especially in crowded tourist areas, it’s really annoying when drones fly above people’s heads, and there’s a real fear they might fall and injure someone.”
Regarding rumors that the drone operator had been caught, reporters contacted the Bailianchi Police Station, which has jurisdiction over the Chengdu Giant Panda Base. A staff member confirmed: “A case has been filed, and punishment has been issued. The police station is handling the matter.” However, no further details of the incident were provided by the staff.