Mao Mao (毛毛), a beloved female giant panda, was born in 1999 in Beichuan County, Sichuan Province. Her life story is one of resilience, maternal dedication, and tragic loss, culminating in her untimely death on May 12, 2008, during the devastating Wenchuan earthquake. Known for her strong maternal instincts, Mao Mao raised three cubs at the Wolong National Nature Reserve, where she became a symbol of love and sacrifice. Her legacy continues to inspire many, as she is remembered not only as a nurturing mother but also as a victim of one of China’s most tragic natural disasters.
Basic Information
- Name: Mao Mao (毛毛)
- Birth Date: 1999
- Date of Death: May 12, 2008 (died due to the Wenchuan earthquake)
- Gender: Female
- Lineage Number: 504
- Name Origin: Named “Mao Mao” after being adopted by singer Mao Amin.
Life Experience of Panda Mao Mao
Wild Birth and Rescue: Mao Mao was born in the wild around 1999 in Beichuan County, Sichuan Province. On April 29, 2000, she was rescued and brought to the Wolong National Nature Reserve, where she began her life in captivity, receiving care and protection.
Motherhood: During her time at the Wolong base, Mao Mao became a devoted mother to three cubs: Wang Wang (网网) (male, born August 31, 2005), Xi Dou (喜豆) (female, born September 24, 2006), and Wen Yu (文雨) (female, born September 24, 2007). Mao Mao exhibited strong maternal instincts, carefully nurturing and raising her offspring with great attention to their needs.
Tragic Events During the Wenchuan Earthquake: On May 12, 2008, when the Wenchuan earthquake struck, Mao Mao was at the Wolong base. She fought valiantly to protect her cubs during the chaos. Tragically, she was struck by a collapsing wall and lost her life in the process. Rescuers later discovered her remains while clearing the debris, revealing that she had sacrificed herself to save her young.
Social Impact and Remembrance: Mao Mao’s story touched the hearts of countless people, and her image as a heroic mother became deeply ingrained in the public consciousness. In honor of the first anniversary of the earthquake, the film “Pandas: The Road Home” was released, featuring a tribute to Mao Mao in its closing credits. The Wolong Giant Panda Research Center held a solemn funeral for her, ensuring that she rests forever in the picturesque landscapes of Wolong.