Cheng Jiu (成就) is a remarkable giant panda known for his unique personality and resilient spirit. From his early days as a chubby cub with a greyish coat to overcoming serious health challenges, Cheng Jiu’s life story reflects both his strength and the dedicated care provided by the people around him. With a variety of affectionate nicknames and a notable family heritage, Cheng Jiu has made his mark in both the panda community and the hearts of those who follow his journey.
Basic Information
- Name: Cheng Jiu (成就)
- Nicknames: Xiao Hui Hui (小灰灰) (Little Grey)
- Date of Birth: July 18, 2014
- Gender: Male
- Studbook Number: 917
- Birthplace: Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding
- Mother: Cheng Ji (成绩)
- Siblings: Ji You (绩优), Ying Ying (迎迎), Cheng Shuang (成双), Cheng Dui (成对), Ni Ni (妮妮), Ji Li (绩丽), Cheng Da (成大), Cheng Shi (成实)
Life Story
Early Childhood: Cheng Jiu was born a healthy and robust cub, weighing a hefty 212 grams at birth. He was the ninth cub born to his mother, Cheng Ji, and was given the name “Cheng Jiu,” with “Jiu” symbolizing the number nine. As a youngster, his fur had a slight greyish hue, earning him the nickname “Xiao Hui Hui,” meaning “Little Grey.”
Journey to Hangzhou: On September 20, 2016, Cheng Jiu, along with another panda named Shuang Hao (双好), was sent to the Hangzhou Zoo to begin his “working trip.” This period marked a significant chapter in his life as he adapted to a new environment away from his birthplace. During his time in Hangzhou, Cheng Jiu became a popular attraction, charming visitors with his playful and curious nature.
Return to Sichuan: In November 2019, Cheng Jiu returned to Sichuan and was relocated to the Dujiangyan Panda Valley. This move brought him back to his roots and allowed him to continue living in the natural habitat of Sichuan’s mountainous region.
Illness and Treatment
Cheng Jiu’s resilience was tested in early 2018 when he fell seriously ill. On the afternoon of February 24, zookeepers at Hangzhou Zoo noticed a sudden change in his behavior—he showed signs of fatigue and a reduced appetite. A preliminary examination by veterinarians diagnosed him with an abnormal mucus reaction, potentially linked to digestive issues.
By the morning of February 25, his condition had worsened. Cheng Jiu passed jelly-like mucus but still refused to eat and appeared weak. In response, the zoo established a medical team to monitor him around the clock. His condition continued to deteriorate over the next few days, and on February 26, he exhibited more alarming behavior. After multiple tests, he was diagnosed with an upper gastrointestinal obstruction, which severely impacted his digestive system.
On March 2, experts from the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding arrived at Hangzhou Zoo to collaborate with local veterinarians and medical experts from Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital. They decided to perform a gastrotomy, a surgical procedure to remove the blockage in his stomach. The operation lasted four hours and was successful, but Cheng Jiu faced several post-surgery complications.
Thanks to the coordinated efforts of the rescue team, Cheng Jiu’s condition gradually stabilized. On March 24, he showed significant progress when he independently ate bamboo leaves for the first time post-surgery. After more than ten hours of digestion, bamboo leaf remnants were found in his stool, confirming that his stomach function had returned to normal, and he had regained tolerance for bamboo and bamboo shoots.
