There’s something irresistibly charming about Mao Zhu (毛竹/Maozhu), the playful panda with a distinctive “V”-shaped nose pattern. Born in 2014 at the Chengdu Research Base, Mao Zhu’s early days were filled with the global spotlight as part of a popular “Panda Growth Live Stream,” endearing him to viewers far and wide. His journey from panda celebrity to wild training in Panda Valley and later to Yunnan Wildlife Park is as exciting as it is heartwarming.
Basic Information
- Name: Mao Zhu (毛竹)
- Meaning of the Name: Moso Bamboo
- Lineage Number: 918
- Gender: Male
- Date of Birth: July 26, 2014
- Birthplace: Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding
- Father: Xiong Bang (雄浜)
- Mother: Mao Mao (毛毛)
- Twin Sister: Mao Sun (毛笋)
- Other Siblings: Mao Dou (毛豆), Mao Tao (毛桃), Da Mao (大毛), Re Gan Mian (热干面), Dan Huang Gao (蛋烘糕)
Life Experience of Panda Mao Zhu
Appearance: Although Mao Zhu is slightly smaller than average, he is very healthy and displays the classic, lovable demeanor typical of giant pandas. His most distinctive feature is his nose, marked with two small spots forming a “V”-shaped pattern, which serves as his unique identifier and makes him especially memorable among panda enthusiasts.
Online Celebrity: From early on, Mao Zhu and his twin sister Mao Sun were in the spotlight as the main stars of a popular “Panda Growth Live Stream,” captivating viewers worldwide. Under the devoted care of their “nanny,” Tang Juwen, the pair grew up healthy and vibrant, developing a playful, active disposition that endeared them to fans globally.
Wild Training: In June 2015, Mao Zhu began a phase of wild acclimatization training at Panda Valley. This program was designed to help him adapt to natural surroundings and build essential survival skills, which would be critical in a less-controlled environment. On May 3, 2016, Mao Zhu completed his training and returned to the Chengdu Base, joining a group known as the “Five Little Pandas.”
Move to Yunnan: Later, on November 17, 2016, Mao Zhu and another panda named Zhen Duo (珍多) were relocated to Yunnan Wildlife Park, starting a new chapter in his life in a different setting.
Celebration: To celebrate the 2025 Chinese New Year, zookeepers at the Yunnan Wildlife Park prepared a special feast for pandas Maozhu and Zhenduo on January 24. They placed ice cakes and steamed corn buns in bamboo baskets, surrounded by a colorful array of carrots, cherry tomatoes, apples, and ginseng fruits. The feast was adorned with bamboo leaves, creating a festive and nutritious New Year’s Eve meal for the pandas.
Gallery of Panda Mao Zhu
Dive in Panda Tribe
As a passionate panda lover, I’m here to share the unique stories and wonders of each panda. Through these posts, I hope to spread the love for these adorable giants and inspire others to join the effort to protect them. Let’s celebrate the magic of pandas together and help ensure their future!