Watching Lei Lei (蕾蕾/Leilei) grow up has been nothing short of a joyride! Born as the lively twin sister of Xiao Xiao, she quickly captured hearts with her endearing spirit and playful energy. From her first encounter with visitors to her growing independence, Lei Lei’s charm shines through. If you haven’t had the chance to witness her in action, you’re missing out on the captivating wonder of a panda’s playful evolution.
Basic Information
- Name: Lei Lei (蕾蕾)
- Date of Birth: June 23, 2021
- Gender: Female
- Place of Birth: Ueno Zoo, Tokyo, Japan
- Father: Bi Li (比力)
- Mother: Xian Nu (仙女)
- Twin Brother: Xiao Xiao (晓晓)
Life Experience of Panda Lei Lei
Birth and Naming: Lei Lei was born at Ueno Zoo on June 23, 2021, alongside her twin brother, Xiao Xiao. This significant event marked a milestone for the zoo, as it was the first time twins had been born there. On October 8, 2021, Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike held a press conference to announce the names of the twin pandas. After receiving over 190,000 public submissions, the male cub was named “Xiao Xiao,” and the female cub was named “Lei Lei.”
Early Life: The twins thrived during their early months, quickly surpassing the six-kilogram weight mark and becoming increasingly lively. Ueno Zoo planned to showcase Lei Lei and Xiao Xiao alongside their mother, Xian Nu, starting in January 2022. On January 12, 2022, Lei Lei had her first encounter with zoo visitors, which lasted for three days, ending on January 14. This debut was highly anticipated, and visitors flocked to see the adorable twins for the first time.
Milestones in Diet: On May 10, 2022, Lei Lei took a significant step in her development by consuming apple pieces for the first time, showcasing her growing independence and appetite.
First Birthday Celebration: On June 20, 2022, the zoo celebrated Lei Lei and Xiao Xiao’s first birthday with a special event, drawing attention from panda lovers and the media alike. This occasion marked a year filled with joy, laughter, and the wonderful growth of the twins.
Independence Training: As Lei Lei and Xiao Xiao matured, the zoo began training them for independent living. On March 23, 2023, it was reported by Kyodo News that the twins were making great progress in their training. Starting from March 20, they began living separately from their mother, Xian Nu, for the entire day. After successfully adjusting to this new routine, they continued to feed and thrive on artificial milk, indicating they were well on their way to independence.
Second Birthday Celebration: Lei Lei and Xiao Xiao celebrated their second birthday on June 23, 2023, with a festive event organized by the Chinese Tourism Office in Tokyo, the Tokyo Chinese Cultural Center, and the Sichuan Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism. This joyous occasion attracted media coverage and reinforced the pandas’ popularity among visitors.
Recent Developments: On April 12, 2024, NHK reported that as Lei Lei and Xiao Xiao continued to grow strong and healthy, Ueno Zoo announced that they would begin to be housed and displayed separately starting April 16, 2024. This decision aims to further promote their independence and allow each panda to develop its unique personality in a dedicated environment.