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: Pan Pan (盼盼)
- Mother: Dong Dong (冬冬)
- Twin Sister: Lu Di (绿地)
- Brother: Da Di (大地)
Life Experience of Panda Bai Yun
Significant Birth: 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.
Travel to America: On September 10, 1996, Bai Yun and the male panda Shi Shi (石石) moved to the San Diego Zoo, beginning a 23-year journey abroad.
Incident: On March 11, 2011, Bai Yun pushed open a gate separating her from her caretaker and started climbing out. When the caretaker tried to lure her back, Bai Yun suddenly bit the caretaker’s leg and began scratching and clawing. After about 30 seconds, the injured caretaker was rescued and rushed to the hospital for emergency treatment, but their life was not in danger.
Dental Issue: On September 12, 2014, staff at the San Diego Zoo noticed a fragment on one of Bai Yun’s canines shortly after she celebrated her 23rd birthday. The zoo explained that this kind of dental issue is not uncommon given her age and the bamboo-heavy diet of pandas. After anesthetizing Bai Yun, the zoo’s veterinarians conducted a detailed examination of her teeth, took X-rays, and ultimately performed restorative surgery to address the problem.
Birthday Celebration: On September 12, 2017, the San Diego Zoo was filled with celebratory cheer for Bai Yun’s 26th birthday. Staff decorated her “room” with a banner reading “Bai Yun’s Birthday Party” prominently displayed at the entrance. The area was filled with birthday gifts, including red envelopes packed with tasty treats, hay-made pillows, and a special panda birthday cake.
Farewell Party: On April 6, 2019, the San Diego Zoo began a three-week farewell celebration for Bai Yun, 27, and her 6-year-old cub, Xiao Li Wu (小礼物). To bid the mother and son duo an emotional goodbye, the zoo set up a “Panda Friendship Wall” where visitors could hang “friendship bells,” write bookmarks, and share cherished memories or blessings for the pandas. After April 27, Bai Yun and Xiao Li Wu stopped receiving visitors as they prepared to return to China.
Return to China: Bai Yun and Xiao Li Wu returned to China on May 16, 2019, after their protection loan agreement expired. This marked Bai Yun’s first return to her homeland after 23 years, and it was also Xiao Li Wu’s first experience on Chinese soil.
Breeding Achievements of Panda Bai Yun
- Hua Mei (华美) is Bai Yun’s eldest daughter and the only cub of Shi Shi (a wild panda). Born on August 21, 1999, at the San Diego Zoo in the United States, she was the first giant panda cub in the U.S. to be successfully born and survive through artificial insemination.
- Mei Sheng (美生) is Bai Yun’s eldest son and her first cub with Gao Gao (高高). Born on August 19, 2003, at the San Diego Zoo. Mei Sheng was the first male giant panda in the U.S. born through natural mating.
- Su Lin (苏琳) is a female giant panda born on August 2, 2005. She returned to China on September 26, 2010, and currently resides at the Bifengxia Base.
- Zhen Zhen (珍珍) is a female giant panda born on August 3, 2007. She also returned to China on September 26, 2010, and currently resides at the Bifengxia Base.
- Yun Zi (云子) is a male giant panda born on August 5, 2009. He returned to China on January 14, 2015, and now lives at the Shijiazhuang Zoo.
- Xiao Li Wu (小礼物), meaning “Little Gift,” is a male giant panda born on July 29, 2012. He returned to China on May 16, 2019, and currently resides at the Jiuzhaigou Jiawuhai Panda Research Park.