Mao Mao (毛毛/Maomao)’s story is one of courage, sacrifice, and the deep bond between a mother and her cubs. Born wild and rescued in her youth, she quickly became a symbol of resilience, facing immense challenges with an unwavering maternal instinct. Her tragic death during the Wenchuan earthquake only deepened the impact of her legacy, leaving a lasting imprint on the hearts of all who knew her story. Mao Mao’s heroism transcends her time, reminding us of the enduring spirit of the panda.
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.
