Lin Hui (林惠), a remarkable female giant panda, was born on September 28, 2001, at the Wolong Walnut Flat Wild Training Base in China. She became a symbol of friendship and cooperation between China and Thailand during her lifetime. Lin Hui’s journey took her from her birthplace to the Chiang Mai Zoo in Thailand, where she contributed to research and conservation efforts, and ultimately became a beloved figure in both countries. Lin Hui’s life was filled with significant milestones, including her successful motherhood, which fostered greater collaboration in panda protection between the two nations. Sadly, she passed away on April 19, 2023, leaving behind a legacy of love and cultural exchange.
Basic Information
- Name: Lin Hui (林惠)
- Gender: Female
- Date of Birth: September 28, 2001
- Date of Passing: April 19, 2023
- Birthplace: Wolong Walnut Flat Wild Training Base
- Lineage Number: 539
- Father: Pan Pan (盼盼)
- Mother: Tang Tang (唐唐)
- Twin Brother: Lin Yang (林阳)
- Siblings: Gong Zhu (公主), Ye Ye (晔晔), Gu Gu (古古), Long Hui (龙徽), Ju Xiao (菊笑)
Life Experience of Panda Lin Hui
Travel to Thailand: On October 12, 2003, just over two years old, Lin Hui, along with a male panda named Chuang Chuang (创创), was loaned to the Chiang Mai Zoo in Thailand.
Living Conditions: At the Chiang Mai Zoo, Lin Hui and Chuang Chuang received exceptional care and attention. The zoo constructed a 1,000-square-meter panda enclosure specifically for them, ensuring their comfort and well-being. Chinese experts were invited to provide guidance on research and share their experiences.
Pregnancy and Birth: In 2009, Lin Hui achieved a remarkable milestone by successfully becoming pregnant and giving birth at the Chiang Mai Zoo. She welcomed a daughter named Lin Bing (林冰), making her the first giant panda cub born in Thailand. Lin Hui displayed incredible maternal instincts, carefully cradling her cub, showcasing the greatness of maternal love.
Health Conditions: Throughout her time at the Chiang Mai Zoo, Lin Hui’s health was a topic of interest. In 2014, internet users noticed abnormalities in her teeth due to enamel erosion, which sparked widespread discussion. Following examinations by professional veterinarians from both China and Thailand, Lin Hui was confirmed to be healthy. However, as she aged, her physical condition gradually began to decline.
Circumstances of Passing: On the evening of April 18, 2023, Lin Hui suddenly collapsed at the Chiang Mai Zoo, exhibiting symptoms such as nosebleeds and visible blood on her neck. Upon receiving notification from Thai authorities, the China Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Panda swiftly organized a team of experts to provide remote assistance for her treatment. Despite their efforts, Lin Hui tragically passed away around 2 a.m. Beijing time on April 19, 2023.
Investigation of Cause of Death: Following Lin Hui’s passing, the Chinese side took the matter seriously and immediately initiated an investigation into the cause of death. A joint expert group from China and Thailand conducted a post-mortem examination and performed pathological and microbiological tests on Lin Hui’s body. They concluded that she died from multi-organ failure caused by atherosclerosis with embolism. Additionally, her nosebleeds were attributed to a vascular tumor in her nasal cavity.
Commemoration and Impact: The passing of Lin Hui deeply saddened people in both China and Thailand. On the same day, the Chiang Mai Zoo held a press conference to announce her death. Wang Wenbin, spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, expressed sorrow and regret over Lin Hui’s passing, acknowledging her vital role in promoting panda conservation cooperation and friendly exchanges between the two nations.