Ling Yan (灵岩/Lingyan), born on August 18, 2017, at the Shenshuping Base in Wolong, quickly earned a reputation for his playful antics and quirky personality. Known for his “pancake face” and clever moves, Ling Yan’s favorite activities include using toy carts for playful business ventures, performing disco-like dances, and even singing during his baths. His energetic behavior and antics have made him a social media sensation, captivating audiences worldwide with his unpredictable charm.
Basic Information
- Name: Ling Yan (灵岩)
- Meaning of the Name: Lively Rock
- Nicknames: Fatty Yan (胖岩), Bandit Yan (土匪岩)
- Gender: Male
- Lineage Number: 1106
- Date of Birth: August 18, 2017
- Place of Birth: Shenshuping Base of China Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Panda, Wolong
- Current Residence: Bamboo Sea Wildlife Park, Luanchuan, Luoyang, Henan
- Mother: Min Min (闽闽)
- Siblings: A Jie (阿杰), Man Man (满满)
Intriguing Details of Panda Ling Yan
Selling Goods with a Cart: Ling Yan has a natural talent for business – or at least, he thinks so! He loves using toy carts, rollers, and spinning tops as his personal “miniature carts,” pushing them around as if he’s running a bustling street market. With each step, he brings smiles to visitors who can’t get enough of his hardworking merchant act. What’s even more impressive? This tireless little entrepreneur walks at least 10,000 steps a day while “selling his goods,” giving his hind legs an excellent workout. His enthusiasm saves the keepers from organizing special exercise routines – he’s got his own built-in fitness plan!
Disco Dancing: If there’s one thing Ling Yan loves as much as his toy carts, it’s dancing – and he does it in style! With one paw gripping a wooden post, the other raised dramatically, and a toy or bamboo stick clenched in his mouth, he twists, spins, and grooves like a true dance floor sensation. Sometimes, he gets so carried away in his rhythm that his toy goes flying mid-spin! His infectious energy and wild moves have earned him the legendary title of “Nightclub Prince.”
A Bath-Time Ballad: When it’s bath time, Ling Yan doesn’t just soak – he puts on a performance. With rhythmic splashes, happy little hums, and playful kicks, he turns his tub into a concert stage. Lost in his own world, he sways to the beat of his own tune, completely entranced by the joy of the moment. His delightful bath-time concerts have even earned him the hilarious nickname “Singing Artist” from amused netizens.
A Little Panda with Big Schemes: Ling Yan isn’t just playful – he’s also clever and a little cunning. When he sees his panda neighbor, Mai Mai (迈迈), having fun with a toy car, he stares longingly, making sure the keepers notice. The next day, his plan works! The keepers bring him his very own toy car, and his pure excitement is impossible to miss. But despite his initial joy, he eventually returns the toy to Mai Mai, proving that even the most mischievous pandas have a heart of gold.
Livestream Incident: Ling Yan’s charisma isn’t just limited to his panda pals – he’s also a viral sensation! On January 31, 2024, a livestream from a zoo in Luoyang, Henan, captured one of his most outrageous moments. As viewers watched in amusement, Ling Yan began showcasing his “sexy hip shake” – a dance move so enthusiastic that it caused the stream to be temporarily banned for ten minutes! His unexpected moment of fame turned him into an instant internet legend, proving once again that there’s never a dull moment with Ling Yan.
Life Experience of Panda Ling Yan
Birth and Early Life: Born on August 18, 2017, at the Shenshuping Base of the China Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Panda in Wolong, Ling Yan was an adorable yet distinctive cub from the very start. With his long snout and bold black cheek markings, he quickly earned the affectionate nickname “Saddle-Face.”
Naming Ceremony: On December 27, 2018, the city of Dujiangyan held a special naming ceremony, announcing four pandas chosen by global netizens as the city’s image ambassadors: Qing Cheng (青城), Li Dui (离堆), Yu Lei (玉垒), and Ling Yan. Ling Yan’s name was inspired by Ling Yan Mountain, a scenic landmark, symbolizing strength and grace.
Move to Luanchuan: On September 22, 2020, Ling Yan and his panda companion Mai Mai embarked on a new adventure, moving to Bamboo Sea Wildlife Park in Luanchuan, Henan. Over the years, his once slender “saddle-face” gradually transformed – thanks to his legendary appetite! With every delicious bamboo feast, his face grew rounder and softer, eventually earning him the lovable title of “Pancake Face.”
