Fan Xing (梵星), a female giant panda born in the Netherlands, has captured the hearts of both Dutch and Chinese panda enthusiasts with her gentle and sensitive nature. Born to two pandas residing abroad, she became a symbol of international panda conservation and the first-ever giant panda cub born in the Netherlands. After spending her first few years at the Ouwehands Zoo, she returned to China in 2023 as part of a panda loan agreement. Let’s dive into the story of Fan Xing’s life, her journey back to China, and her distinctive personality.
Basic Information
- Name: Fan Xing (梵星)
- Gender: Female
- Date of Birth: May 1, 2020
- Birthplace: Ouwehands Zoo, Netherlands
- Mother: Wu Wen (武雯)
- Father: Xing Ya (星雅)
Life Experience of Panda Fan Xing
Birth: Fan Xing was born on May 1, 2020, at around 1:30 a.m., to giant panda Wu Wen, who was living in the Netherlands at the time. Her birth was a milestone as she became the first panda cub born in the country and the first giant panda baby born abroad in 2020.
Naming Ceremony: On August 14, 2020, Fan Xing, then 100 days old, was officially named in a special ceremony at Ouwehands Zoo. Her name, “Fan Xing,” was chosen through an online poll, where it was selected from five potential names. “Fan (Van)” was chosen in honor of the famous Dutch painter Vincent van Gogh, symbolizing both her Dutch birthplace and a vibrant, flourishing life. “Xing (Star)” comes from her father Xing Ya’s name and represents hope and direction, reminiscent of Van Gogh’s iconic starry sky paintings. Fan Xing was set to make her first public appearance in October 2020, which was highly anticipated by zoo visitors.
Life in Dutch: Growing up at Ouwehands Zoo, Fan Xing thrived under the care of her keepers, often delighting visitors with her playful antics. She was particularly fond of rolling around in wood shavings and seemed to enjoy her enriching environment. She loved eating steamed cornbread, especially when the keepers feed her bite by bite.On her second birthday, the zoo hosted a special party in her honor, where guests could even paint their faces to look like pandas to celebrate her big day.
Return to China: According to the agreement between China and the Netherlands, Fan Xing was scheduled to return to China after four years of residence in the Netherlands. On September 27, 2023, she began her journey back to China, departing from the Ouwehands Zoo amidst a heartfelt farewell from hundreds of Dutch citizens. Children and families lined the streets, chanting her name as she made her way to the airport.
Quarantine and Adaptation: Upon her arrival in China, Fan Xing underwent a quarantine period in October 2023. However, her adaptation to the new environment proved to be a challenge. She is highly alert to sounds in her surroundings, often showing a nervous demeanor when unfamiliar noises are present. After careful evaluation, it was decided that she would be moved to a non-exhibition area to help her better adjust to her new surroundings.
Public Exhibition in China: On April 29, 2024, Fan Xing finally moved into the visitor exhibition area at the Hometown of Returned Pandas enclosure in Ya’an, Sichuan Province.