Gong Gong (贡贡/Gonggong), born on August 18, 2013, at the Ya’an Bifengxia Base, has charmed panda enthusiasts worldwide with his quirky personality and impressive skills. Known for his “skewer expert” status and tendency to jealously compete with his brother, Shun Shun, Gong Gong’s journey has been anything but ordinary. After overcoming challenges in his early years, he now thrives in Hainan, where he enjoys a luxurious life in the unique “Panda World” and has earned global recognition for his charm.
Basic Information
- Name: Gong Gong (贡贡)
- Gender: Male
- Studbook Number: 890
- Date of Birth: August 18, 2013
- Birthplace: Ya’an Bifengxia Base, China Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Panda
- Father: Lu Lu (芦芦)
- Mother: Feng Yi (凤仪)
- Siblings: Nuan Nuan (暖暖), Yi Yi (谊谊), Sheng Yi (升谊), Shun Shun (舜舜)
Intriguing Details of Panda Gong Gong
Jealousy and Rivalry: Despite being biological brothers, Gong Gong and Shun Shun sometimes get jealous of each other. Every morning, when the keepers call them to wake up, if they first call Gong Gong, Shun Shun becomes jealous and starts kicking the door to remind the keepers to pay attention to him.
Skewer Expert: Gong Gong has a unique skill—he’s an expert at eating skewers. Whether it’s fruit skewers or carrot skewers, he can quickly and skillfully finish them off.
Thriftiness: Despite living in very favorable conditions in Hainan, Gong Gong still maintains a habit of frugality. He never picks and chooses his food and will even finish the tender bamboo skin without hesitation, never wasting a single bite.
Social Impact and Recognition: On January 3, 2020, the Global Panda Awards ceremony was held at the Pairi Daiza Zoo in Belgium. Gong Gong, representing the Hainan Tropical Wildlife Park, won the prestigious “China’s Most Adorable Panda” Gold Award.
Plenty of Toys: Gong Gong and Shun Shun’s life in Hainan is not only materially satisfying but also mentally enriching. The keepers at the zoo have prepared countless toys for them, including hand-woven yarn dolls, plastic toys, bamboo products, and custom-made pillows, among others.
Life Experience of Panda Gong Gong
Early Life: Gong Gong spent his early years at the Ya’an Bifengxia Base of the China Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Panda.
Time in Taiyuan Zoo: On October 18, 2015, Gong Gong, along with another panda named Shun Shun, was sent to the Taiyuan Zoo in Shanxi for a period of display and exchange. However, his stay at the Taiyuan Zoo was challenging. The suboptimal environment led to the development of stereotypic behaviors, indicating that Gong Gong was not thriving in his new surroundings. Recognizing the need for better conditions, the decision was made to return Gong Gong and Shun Shun to the Bifengxia Base on May 10, 2018, due to the closure and renovation of the Taiyuan Zoo.
Relocation to Hainan: In September 2018, after rigorous assessments and preparations, the Hainan Tropical Wildlife Park and Botanical Garden obtained the necessary administrative permits to house giant pandas. On November 10, 2018, Gong Gong and Shun Shun flew from Sichuan to Hainan, officially settling into the meticulously designed “Panda World” at the Hainan Tropical Wildlife Park. This marked the first time giant pandas made their home on Hainan Island, a significant milestone in panda relocation efforts.
Residence Environment: “Panda World” at the Hainan Tropical Wildlife Park is divided into four main functional areas: an outdoor sports exhibition area, an indoor exhibition area, a science education area, and a logistics support service area. The facility covers more than 1,000 square meters and provides a comprehensive habitat for the pandas. The outdoor sports area includes artificial hills, pools, lawns, and wooden climbing structures, offering Gong Gong ample space for playing and resting. The indoor exhibition area mimics the natural ecological environment, ensuring a comfortable and safe living space for Gong Gong.
Diet and Daily Care: Gong Gong enjoys a luxurious lifestyle at the Hainan Tropical Wildlife Park. His diet primarily consists of carefully selected bamboo and bamboo shoots, supplemented with apples, carrots, and other nutritious foods. The caretakers provide 24-hour care, diligently cleaning and disinfecting his enclosure daily to maintain a hygienic and safe living environment.