Hua Ni (华妮), also known by her Korean name Ai Bao (爱宝), is more than just a giant panda; she is a symbol of international cooperation and conservation success. Born on July 13, 2013, at the Bifengxia Base of the China Giant Panda Conservation and Research Center, Hua Ni embarked on a remarkable journey that took her from her homeland in China to South Korea’s Samsung Everland in 2016. There, she not only captured the hearts of the public but also contributed significantly to the panda population by giving birth to the first panda cub born in Korea, followed by twin cubs three years later. Hua Ni’s story is a testament to the power of collaborative efforts in wildlife conservation and the enduring charm of these gentle creatures.
Basic Information
- Chinese Name: Hua Ni
- Korean Name: Ai Bao
- Lineage Number: 869
- Gender: Female
- Date of Birth: July 13, 2013
- Place of Birth: Bifengxia Base, China Giant Panda Conservation and Research Center
- Mother: Xin Ni’er
- Father: Lu Lu
- Husband: Yuan Xin
- Elder Daugher: Fu Bao
- Twin Daughters: Rui Bao and Huibao
Journey to South Korea
Hua Ni embarked on an international journey on March 3, 2016, along with another giant panda, Yuan Xin (Korean name: Le Bao). They were part of a 15-year collaborative research program between China and South Korea, and their new home was Samsung Everland’s Panda World in South Korea.
On April 21, 2016, Hua Ni and Yuan Xin’s new habitat officially opened to the public. In Korea, Hua Ni was given the new name Ai Bao, and Yuan Xin was named Le Bao. Both pandas quickly became popular among visitors.
Hua Ni’s contribution to the panda population extended further when she gave birth to her first cub on July 20, 2020, in South Korea. This cub was named Fu Bao, marking a significant milestone as the first panda born in Korea. Hua Ni’s second significant achievement came on July 7, 2023, when she gave birth to twin female cubs, who were named Rui Bao and Hui Bao.
Personality Traits
Hua Ni is known for her gentle and introverted nature. Described as well-behaved and docile, she has a calm demeanor that endears her to both her caretakers and the public. Her reserved and sweet personality has made her a favorite among panda enthusiasts.
Postpartum Care and Cub Development
Postpartum Care: Following Hua Ni’s births, a team of Chinese and Korean experts collaborated to ensure her postpartum care and the healthy development of her cubs. Given that panda mothers can sometimes abandon their cubs due to the physical and nutritional demands of multiple births, human intervention was crucial. Techniques such as collecting colostrum and providing necessary support helped ensure the well-being of both Hua Ni and her cubs.
Cub Development: Hua Ni’s cubs have thrived under the diligent care of the joint expert team. Fu Bao, the first panda born in South Korea, quickly became a beloved figure among the Korean public, gaining fame as a panda star. The twin cubs, Rui Bao and Hui Bao, also received a warm reception when they made their public debut. Their health and growth are closely monitored to ensure they develop well.
