A month ago, the Chongqing Zoo moved the giant panda Yu’ai out of public view after she developed hair loss around her eyes. According to the zoo’s latest video update, Yu’ai’s condition has improved significantly after a month of treatment. However, the zoo has now reported that another panda, Yubei, is showing similar hair loss symptoms around the eyes.
On June 29, Chongqing Zoo issued an official statement confirming that no pathogenic microorganisms were found in the affected area around Yubei’s eyes. Experts are now working to optimize the treatment plan.
The statement reads:
“In response to recent hair loss observed in some of our pandas, the zoo organized a comprehensive diagnosis involving both online and in-person experts.
In the case of Yubei, no pathogenic microorganisms were detected in the hairless areas around the eyes. The skin shows no signs of redness, scabbing, or flaking, and the panda’s energy level, appetite, and behavior remain normal. The zoo has worked with specialists to refine treatment measures and continues long-term care for the affected individuals. Recovery from hair loss takes time, and we ask for public patience.
Hair loss in giant pandas can result from a variety of causes, including microbial or parasitic infections, endocrine or metabolic disorders, deficiencies in vitamins or trace elements, environmental factors, or seasonal molting. During Chongqing’s hot and humid summer, pandas’ love of water play can also lead to localized hair breakage and thinning due to underfur shedding.
Moving forward, we will strictly implement expert recommendations, enhance health monitoring and refined care, and improve the indoor panda habitat to cope with high temperature and humidity during the summer.
We sincerely thank the public for its continued concern and support for giant panda conservation.”
On July 1, reporters visited Chongqing Zoo and observed noticeable hair loss around Yubei’s eyes. Attempts to contact the zoo’s Animal Management Department by phone were unsuccessful.
🐼 Panda Profiles
Yu’ai: A female panda born on July 22, 2022, at Chongqing Zoo, daughter of Ershun (a panda who returned from Canada). She has a twin brother named Yuke. Yu’ai is known for her lively and enthusiastic personality and her famous ability to finish meals in one go. She loves apples and bamboo leaves and is considered one of the zoo’s top stars.
Yubei: Also a female panda, born on July 11, 2016, at Chongqing Zoo. She is the younger twin in the zoo’s first successfully raised panda twins. Her older brother, Yubao, now lives at Wuxi Zoo in Jiangsu Province. Their names mean “Chongqing’s treasures.” Yubei is gentle in nature, loves climbing on swings, and enjoys cooling off with watermelon in the summer.