Lan Zai (兰仔), a male giant panda born on October 21, 2004, at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, has experienced a life full of challenges, growth, and significant contributions to panda conservation. His story spans from a record-breaking birth to overcoming struggles in captivity, and eventually, becoming a father to several cubs. Lan Zai’s journey is not only a reflection of his own resilience but also of the ongoing efforts to protect and preserve the endangered giant panda species.
Basic Information
- Name: Lan Zai (兰仔)
- Gender: Male
- Date of Birth: October 21, 2004
- Place of Birth: Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding
- Genealogy Number: 592
- Mother: Shu Lan (蜀兰)
- Father: Shi Shi (师师)
- Siblings: Lan Bao (兰宝)
Life Experience of Panda Lan Zai
Early Life: Lan Zai’s early years were spent at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, where he was born to his mother, Shu Lan, after an unusually long gestation period of 200 days. This remarkable pregnancy set a global record for the longest gestation of a captive giant panda.
Relocation to Lanzhou Zoo: However, his life took a significant turn when he was relocated to Lanzhou Zoo in Gansu Province in 2007. The move was part of a collaboration between the Chengdu Panda Base and Lanzhou Zoo aimed at advancing panda conservation and breeding programs. Despite the positive intentions behind the move, Lan Zai faced initial challenges in his new environment. He struggled with adapting to the change and exhibited signs of stress, including a refusal to eat or drink. To help him adjust, the zoo imported bamboo from Xi’an, which eventually encouraged Lan Zai to resume eating and settle into his new home.
Incident at Lanzhou Zoo: During his time at Lanzhou Zoo, Lan Zai became involved in an incident that garnered public attention. One day, while a zookeeper was feeding him, Lan Zai unexpectedly lashed out, grabbing the keeper and biting him through the bars of his enclosure. This rare and aggressive behavior shocked onlookers and sparked widespread media coverage. While the zoo took immediate action to prevent further incidents, the episode raised questions about the challenges of keeping pandas in captivity, particularly in terms of ensuring their well-being and safety.
Online Controversy: In 2013, Lan Zai became the subject of a controversial rumor when allegations surfaced online claiming that the Lanzhou Zoo had mistreated its pandas, including Lan Zai. Although the zoo denied the accusations and stated that they provided the pandas with high-quality care, the incident negatively impacted the public perception of both the zoo and panda conservation efforts in general.
Return to Sichuan: Due to ongoing concerns regarding his health and care, including the loss of vision in his right eye, Lan Zai was sent back to the Sichuan province, where he was reunited with his mother, Shu Lan, at the China Giant Panda Conservation and Research Center. This marked a new chapter in his life, where he received better medical attention and continued to play a valuable role in panda conservation.
Success as a Father: As an adult, Lan Zai has contributed to the panda population through successful breeding. He is the father of several cubs, including Long Zai (隆仔), Ting Zai (婷仔), Si Hai (四海), Yi Jia (一家), Xing Yi (星怡), Xing Qiu (星秋), Zhen Lan (珍兰), and Sheng Lan (胜兰).