Mei Xiang (美香), a celebrated giant panda, has captivated hearts worldwide through her long and remarkable journey from China to the United States and back. Born on July 22, 1998, in the Wolong Nature Reserve’s China Giant Panda Protection and Research Center in Sichuan, Mei Xiang has been a symbol of conservation efforts and international friendship. Her story is a testament to the dedication of those working to protect and nurture this endangered species.
Basic Information
- Name: Mei Xiang (美香)
- Date of Birth: July 22, 1998
- Place of Birth: Walnut Flat Wild Training Base, Sichuan
- Genealogy Number: 473
- Mother: Xue Xue (雪雪)
- Siblings: Peng Peng (鹏鹏), Lou Sheng (楼生), Xin Xin (欣欣)
Life in the United States
Travel to America: In December 2000, Mei Xiang, along with a male panda named Tian Tian (添添), traveled to the United States as part of the “China-U.S. Friendship Ambassador” program. They arrived at the Smithsonian National Zoo in Washington, D.C., where they began an extraordinary 23-year journey. During their time in the U.S., Mei Xiang and Tian Tian became known as “Washington’s Most Popular Couple” and welcomed six cubs.
First Cub: On July 9, 2005, Mei Xiang gave birth to her first cub, Tai Shan (泰山). Tai Shan’s arrival marked Mei Xiang’s debut as a mother. He was later returned to the China Giant Panda Protection and Research Center’s Ya’an Bifengxia Base on February 5, 2010.
Second Cub: On September 16, 2012, Mei Xiang gave birth to a second cub, Ao Ao (傲傲). Unfortunately, Ao Ao passed away on September 23 of the same year.
Third and Fourth Cubs: On August 23, 2013, Mei Xiang gave birth to twins. The smaller twin did not survive, but the surviving daughter was named Bao Bao (宝宝). Bao Bao was returned to the China Giant Panda Protection and Research Center’s Dujiangyan Base on February 22, 2017.
Fifth and Sixth Cubs: On August 22, 2015, Mei Xiang gave birth to another pair of twins. The larger cub was named Bei Bei (贝贝), while the smaller cub did not survive. Bei Bei was returned to the Ya’an Bifengxia Base on November 21, 2019.
Seventh Cub: On August 21, 2020, at the age of 22, Mei Xiang gave birth to a son named Xiao Qi Ji (小奇迹), making her the second oldest panda in the world to give birth.
Rumors: In April 2023, rumors surfaced about alleged mistreatment of Mei Xiang. In response, the China Giant Panda Protection and Research Center sent experts to the U.S. to verify the situation. The investigation confirmed that Mei Xiang, Tian Tian, and Xiao Qi Ji were receiving appropriate care, and their health was generally good.
Birthday Celebration: On July 22, 2023, Mei Xiang celebrated her 25th birthday at the Smithsonian National Zoo. The zoo staff prepared a special cake designed by the nutrition department, featuring a prominent “25” made from frozen diluted apple juice, and decorated with sweet potato puree, carrot puree, apple slices, and bamboo.
Journey Back to China
Agreement Exprie: By September 2023, the lease agreement for the giant pandas at the Smithsonian National Zoo expired. Mei Xiang, Tian Tian, and Xiao Qi Ji were scheduled to return to China on December 7. A farewell event was held, attended by many who came to bid them goodbye.
Arrive in Chengdu: Mei Xiang, Tian Tian, and Xiao Qi Ji departed the U.S. on the evening of November 8, 2023, and safely arrived in Chengdu on November 9. Following their return, they were quarantined and then relocated according to the panda center’s arrangements. Mei Xiang and Tian Tian now reside in the Dujiangyan Base’s care and rehabilitation area (not open to the public), while Xiao Qi Ji remains at the Wolong Shenshuping Base.
Living Environment: Mei Xiang and Tian Tian currently live at the China Giant Panda Protection and Research Center’s Dujiangyan Base, enjoying the comforts of their native environment. The base provides them with a spacious outdoor area, a comfortable indoor habitat, and a variety of food and medical care.