Panda Gu Gu: Beijing Zoo Security Chief

Panda Gu Gu

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 Status: Deceased

Intriguing Details of Panda Gu Gu

Beijing Zoo Security Chief: Gu Gu has gained a reputation for his fierce territorial defense, earning him the playful monikers of “Beijing Zoo Security Chief”

  • 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 to pick up toys 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  • Following each of these incidents, Gu Gu displayed signs of distress, becoming withdrawn and refusing food for several days.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.

Interaction with the First Lady: On November 10, 2017, after U.S. President Donald Trump concluded his state visit to China, First Lady Melania Trump stayed behind in Beijing to visit the panda pavilion at the Beijing Zoo. During her visit, Melania had a close interaction with the giant panda “Gu Gu.” She personally fed Gu Gu a tender bamboo shoot and even gently stroked his paw. Impressed by the experience, Melania shared photos of her interaction with Gu Gu on Twitter, describing the encounter as “wonderful.”

Life Experience of Panda Gu Gu

Relocations: 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.

Retirement: 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.

Deteriorating Health: On January 8, 2025, Beijing Zoo Management Office issued a notice announcing the suspension of video updates on the giant panda Gu Gu.

Death: On January 19, Gu Gu (古古) passed away at 2:09 a.m, beacuse of a combination of old age, heart and liver diseases, and the failure of various organs, at the age of 25 years and 4 months.

News about Panda Gu Gu

Gallery of Panda Gu Gu