Jin Xi (金喜), a male giant panda born in 2020, is not just a symbol of China’s dedication to wildlife preservation but also a new face in international cooperation for panda conservation. After spending his early years at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, Jin Xi embarked on a journey to Madrid Zoo in 2024, where he now resides as part of a collaborative effort between China and Spain to protect and study endangered species. With his friendly and lively personality, Jin Xi has quickly become a beloved figure in both countries. Let’s explore his life, from his birth in China to his new adventure in Spain.
Basic Information
- Name: Jin Xi (金喜)
- Adopted Name: You Shuang (by AIA Life Insurance Company)
- Gender: Male
- Date of Birth: September 1, 2020
- Studbook Number: 1246
- Birthplace: Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding
- Mother: Miao Miao (淼淼)
- Siblings: Jin Shuang (金双), Jin Yu (金玉)
Intriguing Details of Panda Jin Xi
Provoking Mom: When Jin Xi was young, she was very mischievous. Once, she saw her mom, Miao Miao, lying on a wooden frame with her eyes closed, relaxing. Jin Xi decided to bite her mom’s fur from behind, which caused Miao Miao pain. In response, Miao Miao swiped at her, flipping Jin Xi off the frame. Despite her sharp claws and anger, Miao Miao never actually hit Jin Xi.
Challenging Hua Hua: As Jin Xi grew older, she gained the courage to challenge the mighty Hua Hua (nicknamed “The Overlord Flower”), who was known for her exceptional fighting skills. The outcome was predictable – little Jin Xi was pinned to the ground and roughly rubbed into the dirt by Hua Hua, teaching Jin Xi a powerful lesson in Hua Hua’s strength.
Clingy Personality: Jin Xi loves to stick close to the caretakers. One day, while the caretakers were busy working in the yard, Jin Xi insisted on having their attention and wanted to play. This distraction made it impossible for the caretakers to finish their work. With no choice, they picked Jin Xi up and placed her on a wooden frame, quickly running off to complete their tasks. Jin Xi was so upset that she immediately tried to chase after them, but with her small stature and short legs, she fell off the frame and was momentarily stunned. When she regained her senses and found that the caretaker had already left, she was so mad that she lay on the ground, throwing a tantrum and rolling around.
Life Experience of Panda Jin Xi
Birth: On September 1, 2020, Jin Xi was born and raised at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding alongside his twin sister, Jin Shuang. Their names symbolize double happiness and good things coming in pairs.
Adoption: On April 22, 2021, AIA Life Insurance Company adopted Jin Xi as a gesture of support for giant panda conservation and other endangered species protection efforts. The company gave him the adoption name “You Shuang,” symbolizing their commitment to the cause.
Candidate of International Program: In April 2024, the China Wildlife Conservation Association announced that Jin Xi, along with another panda named Zhu Yu (茱萸), would be sent to Spain as part of a long-term conservation partnership. This collaboration between China and Spain has resulted in the successful breeding and survival of six giant pandas so far, showcasing the strong ties between the two countries in wildlife protection efforts.
Preparation: To prepare for Jin Xi’s arrival, the Madrid Zoo worked closely with a team of Chinese experts to upgrade its panda enclosure. Special attention was given to create a suitable living environment for Jin Xi, including the addition of climbing structures and natural play areas that would cater to his playful nature and love of climbing. The zoo even made modifications to accommodate potential breeding, such as renovating the panda nursery and ensuring the space was ideal for taking care of panda cubs.
Travel to Spain: On April 29, 2024, Jin Xi departed from Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport, embarking on his 10-year stay at the Madrid Zoo. This marked the first time since late 2019 that pandas were sent to Europe for a conservation mission.
Life in Madrid: Jin Xi officially made his debut to the Spanish public on May 30, 2024, during a grand ceremony at the Madrid Zoo’s panda exhibit. The event attracted widespread media coverage and was a celebrated moment in Spain’s ongoing partnership with China in the field of wildlife preservation.
AI Assistant Irenia: In October 2024, the Madrid Zoo introduced a unique addition to Jin Xi’s care team – a specialized artificial intelligence assistant named “Irenia.” This AI caretaker was designed to monitor Jin Xi’s well-being and assist with his day-to-day care, showcasing the zoo’s innovative approach to panda conservation and animal welfare.