Bi Li (比力/Bili)’s personality is anything but ordinary—this mischievous panda is as cheeky as they come! From his unforgettable antics at Chimelong Safari Park to his nickname as the “Standing God” for his impressive abilities, Bi Li’s charm lies in his spirited nature. His bond with Xian Nv and journey from China to Japan and back is a testament to his enduring place in the hearts of panda lovers worldwide.
Basic Information
- Name: Bi Li (比力)
- Japanese name: Li Li (力力)
- Gender: Male
- Date of Birth: August 16, 2005
- Birthplace: China Giant Panda Conservation Research Center (Wolong Nuozhiping Base)
- Mother: Gong Zhu (公主)
- Father: Ling Ling (灵灵)
- Siblings: Ge Ge (格格), Jun Zhu (郡主), Ya Ao (雅奥), Li Li (丽丽), Huan Huan (欢欢), Zhu Ling (竹灵), Zhu Hai (竹海), Yun Yun (运运), Shan Hu (山虎), Wu Wen (武雯), Xian Xian (贤贤), and Qi Qi (七七)
Intriguing Details of Panda Bi Li
Mischievous Personality: During his time at Chimelong Safari Park, Bi Li became known for his mischievous nature. He frequently picked fights with other pandas, even leading the chaos and bullying younger pandas. On one occasion, Bi Li climbed onto a wooden platform and, while “You You (友友)” was sleeping, he defecated and urinated on its head. This scene, witnessed by both visitors and other pandas, caused quite a stir.
Standing Skills: Bi Li has exceptionally strong hind legs, allowing him to stand up effortlessly without external support. He can even take a few steps while standing. This unique skill has made him a standout attraction at the Chimelong Panda Pavilion, where fans affectionately refer to him as the “Standing God.”
Life Experience of Panda Bi Li
Bond with Xian Nv: From a young age, Bi Li formed a close bond with the female panda Xian Nv (仙女). After the 2008 Wenchuan earthquake, Bi Li, along with Xian Nv and other pandas, was urgently evacuated to safety. Xian Nv was relocated to Guangzhou Changlong, while Bi Li underwent a similar evacuation process. This disaster, while challenging, also provided an opportunity for their enduring bond. On March 26, 2008, Bi Li moved to Hong Kong Wild Animal Park, where he was reunited with Xian Nv, and they spent some time together there.
Travel to Tokyo: On February 11, 2011, Bi Li and Xian Nv were sent on loan to Ueno Zoo in Tokyo, Japan, marking the start of their overseas life. Their arrival was warmly welcomed by the Japanese public, and they became stars of the zoo.
Breeding Effort: At Ueno Zoo, Bi Li and Xian Nv successfully mated, producing offspring. Their first cub was born in 2012 but tragically died within a week. On June 12, 2017, Bi Li and Xian Nv welcomed their daughter, Xiang Xiang (香香). Her birth garnered widespread attention and became a symbol of cultural exchange between China and Japan.
Deterioting Health: In August 2024, according to the official WeChat account of the China Wildlife Conservation Association, two giant pandas, “Bi Li” (male, born in August 2005) and “Xian Nv” (female, born in July 2005), both showed symptoms of age-related diseases, including high blood pressure. Chinese and Japanese experts maintained regular communication and held joint consultations to provide targeted treatment. The pandas’ conditions were effectively controlled, and both pandas’ appetite and daily activities remained normal.
Early Return: To ensure better care and treatment for the two pandas, Chinese and Japanese officials amicably agreed that the pandas would be returned to China. After friendly consultations, it was decided that the return would take place as early as the end of September 2024.
Arrival at Chengdu: On September 29, 2024, the two pandas, “Bi Li” and “Xian Nv,” safely arrived in Chengdu, China. On December 6, 2024, the giant pandas “Bi Li” and “Xian Nv” were officially exhibited at the Bifengxia Panda Base.
