Da Bai Tu (大白兔), a charming female giant panda, was born on July 2, 2010, at the Beijing Zoo. With a lineage number of 766, she is the daughter of Ying Hua, a respected panda, while her father’s identity remains debated, with suggestions ranging from Gu Gu to Da Di. Da Bai Tu’s life has been marked by both challenges and achievements, making her an important figure in panda conservation. This introduction explores her early experiences, breeding contributions, and distinctive physical features that have endeared her to many.
Basic Information
- Name: Da Bai Tu (大白兔)
- Gender: Female
- Date of Birth: July 2, 2010
- Place of Birth: Beijing Zoo
- Mother: Ying Hua (瑛华)
- Lineage Number: 766
Early Life Experiences
Birth and Foster Care: Da Bai Tu faced an early tragedy when her sister passed away shortly after birth. Due to her mother, Ying Hua, prioritizing care for her surviving cub, and the lack of initial milk and conditions to raise a cub at the Beijing Zoo, Da Bai Tu was urgently transported to the Ya’an Bifengxia Base of the Sichuan Giant Panda Research Center for artificial rearing. This swift action ensured that she received the necessary care and nutrition during her critical early development.
Return to Beijing: After spending some time in Ya’an, Da Bai Tu returned to the Beijing Zoo in the following year (2011) to continue her growth journey among her fellow pandas.
Involvement in Breeding Programs: In April 2017, Da Bai Tu was sent back to Sichuan to participate in a breeding program at the China Giant Panda Protection Research Center. This move was part of a larger effort to contribute to the breeding and conservation of the giant panda population.
Breeding Achievements
On May 29, 2019, Da Bai Tu made headlines as a vital contributor to the Beijing Zoo, successfully giving birth to the first set of panda twins of the year—an impressive pair of a male and female, named Ji Nian (吉年) (brother) and Ji Qing (吉庆) (sister). This successful breeding not only showcased Da Bai Tu’s exceptional maternal abilities but also infused new energy into panda conservation efforts, highlighting her role in helping to sustain the giant panda population.
Physical Characteristics
Da Bai Tu inherits her grandmother Ying Ying’s round and robust physique. She has a plush, white coat, with distinctive black eye patches that enhance her adorable appearance. These physical traits make her stand out among the panda community, capturing the hearts of visitors and panda enthusiasts alike. Her charm and cuteness contribute to her popularity, ensuring that she remains a beloved figure both at the Beijing Zoo and beyond.
