On February 6, Hong Kong Ocean Park organized a media visit to meet the Hong Kong-born giant panda twins, affectionately nicknamed “Gajie/Jia Jie” (meaning “Big Sister”) and “Sailo/Xie Lao” (meaning “Little Brother” in Cantonese), showcasing the latest updates on their lives.
Born on August 15, 2024, these panda cubs are the first successfully bred giant pandas in Hong Kong. Locals fondly refer to them using the Cantonese terms “Gajie” and “Sailo,” representing their sibling bond.
When reporters arrived at the “Giant Panda Adventure” exhibit around 1:30 p.m., “Gajie” was napping on a tree branch while “Sailo” played in the nearby bushes. The cubs’ fur still had a soft, pinkish hue. “Gajie” had slightly upturned black eye patches resembling “phoenix eyes,” while “Sailo’s” eye patches appeared rounder. Interestingly, “Gajie’s” tail fur was initially darker but has gradually lightened, while “Sailo’s” tail fur remains relatively white. To help distinguish them, the park marked “Sailo’s” back with a purple, safe dye.
Under the guidance of staff, “Sailo” peeked out from the bushes and began toddling around the enclosure, his wobbly steps eliciting delighted exclamations of “so cute!” from the reporters. Despite “Sailo’s” playful antics, “Gajie” remained undisturbed in her nap. About 10 minutes later, “Gajie” slowly woke up, cautiously climbed down from the tree, stretched lazily near a swing, and then clumsily trotted toward the caretaker. After a brief playful scuffle, both cubs were gently carried away by the staff.
According to Hong Kong Ocean Park staff, “Gajie” weighed 122 grams at birth, while “Sailo” weighed 112 grams. They now weigh around 11 kilograms each. Both cubs are growing robustly, capable of independent climbing and running, and their personalities have become increasingly lively.
February 15 will mark the twins’ half-year birthday, and Hong Kong will host a “Giant Panda Twin Debut Ceremony” to celebrate. Starting February 16, the public will have the opportunity to meet these adorable panda cubs at Hong Kong Ocean Park.