Gu Gu (古古), a remarkable giant panda, has become an icon of both resilience and protection during his life. Born on September 25, 1999, at the Wolong National Nature Reserve in China, he has endured a series of adventures and challenges that have shaped his character. From his early days in a conservation training center to becoming a beloved resident at the Beijing Zoo, Gu Gu’s story is one of bravery and tenacity. Known for his strong territorial instincts, he has earned the affectionate nicknames “Beijing Zoo Security Chief” and “Old Man Gu” from fans and visitors alike. With his recent retirement, Gu Gu has transitioned into a well-deserved, leisurely life while still capturing the hearts of those who admire him.
Basic Information
- Name: Gu Gu (古古)
- Date of Birth: September 25, 1999
- Place of Birth: Wolong National Nature Reserve, China
- Mother: Tang Tang (唐唐)
- Father: Pan Pan (盼盼)
- Siblings: Gong Zhu (公主), Ye Ye (晔晔), Long Hui (龙徽), Lin Yang (林阳), Lin Hui (林惠), Ju Xiao (菊笑)
- Current Residence: Beijing Zoo
Life Experience
Gu Gu was born at the China Giant Panda Protection and Research Center’s Wolong facility and experienced several relocations during his formative years. In September 2003, he moved from the Wolong training base to the Ya’an Bifengxia Base for further development. His journey continued when, on October 22, 2004, he made his permanent home at the Beijing Zoo, where he has remained ever since.
After a long and dedicated career of 20 years, Gu Gu officially retired on January 10, 2024, due to his advancing age. In retirement, he now enjoys a peaceful life in the back area of the Beijing Zoo, receiving warm wishes from numerous online fans and visitors who have come to admire his spirit and legacy.
Nicknames and Heroic Acts
Gu Gu has gained a reputation for his fierce territorial defense, earning him the playful monikers of “Beijing Zoo Security Chief” and “Old Man Gu” from fans. Over the years, he has successfully fended off trespassing visitors on four notable occasions:
- On September 19, 2006, a drunken man climbed over the zoo’s barriers, startling Gu Gu, who responded by charging and biting the man on the right leg.
- On October 22, 2007, a young boy scavenging for items entered Gu Gu’s resting area, leading to an encounter where Gu Gu knocked him down and bit his legs.
- On January 7, 2009, another visitor named Zhang jumped into Gu Gu’s enclosure and suffered bites on his legs as a result.
- On May 18, 2012, a photographer attempted to invade Gu Gu’s territory for a photo opportunity and was met with a bite on the leg.
Following each of these incidents, Gu Gu displayed signs of distress, becoming withdrawn and refusing food for several days. It was only after the tender care and encouragement from his keepers that he was able to recover emotionally.
Personality Traits
Gu Gu exhibits a strong sense of territoriality and reacts fiercely to any perceived threats to his domain. While he showcases a more aggressive side when defending his territory, he is also known for his gentle and affectionate nature during calmer moments. His keepers have noted that he is quite amiable as long as visitors do not provoke him. Gu Gu’s duality – his ability to be both a protector and a gentle giant – makes him a unique and cherished figure at the Beijing Zoo.
