Meng Er (萌二), born on August 22, 2013, at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, is a remarkable male panda residing at Beijing Zoo’s Asian Games Hall. Known for his distinctive features and lively personality, Meng Er stands out with his unique black eye circles, pointed mouth, and large ears. As a cherished member of the famous “Meng” family, Meng Er captivates visitors with his playful antics and affectionate nature, making him a beloved star at the zoo.
Basic Information
- Name: Meng Er (萌二)
- Nickname: Meng Xiao (萌小)
- Gender: Male
- Date of Birth: August 22, 2013
- Birthplace: Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding
- Current Residence: Beijing Zoo, Asian Games Hall
- Mother: Meng Meng (萌萌)
- Father: Yong Yong (勇勇)
- Siblings: Meng Da (twin brother), Meng Lan (younger brother), Meng Bao and Meng Yu (twin sisters).
Physical Characteristics
Meng Er is easily recognizable with his distinct features. He has unique black eye circles, a pointed mouth, a small face, large ears, and a round body. These characteristics make Meng Er stand out among other pandas, capturing the attention of visitors and online fans.
Behavioral Traits
Hand-Cracking Bamboo: Meng Er is famous for his unique way of opening bamboo. Unlike most pandas who use their mouths, heads, or noses, Meng Er uses his hands directly, often making exaggerated facial expressions. This unusual method was taught by his caretaker, Xu Laoye, and Meng Er mimics Xu Laoye’s expressions.
Active and Playful: Meng Er has a lively and energetic personality. He enjoys climbing trees and playing, often sleeping in trees, showcasing his excellent climbing abilities. In 2018, during a power outage at Beijing Zoo, Meng Er wandered into the neighboring area and encountered Gu Gu, the renowned panda “security chief” known for his fighting prowess. Initially overpowered by the 20-year-old Gu Gu, Meng Er, then only 5, surprisingly turned the tables, giving Gu Gu a tough time and even biting his nose. This encounter earned Meng Er considerable fame.
Filial Piety: Despite not being raised directly by his mother, Meng Er shows deep affection for Meng Meng. He readily steps in to take care of her area when needed and often returns the favor to his caretaker, Xu Laoye, by offering bamboo, earning him the title of “the most filial panda at Beijing Zoo.”
Health Status
Meng Er has suffered from demodectic mange, a common eye condition in pandas. Although the caretakers at Beijing Zoo have worked hard to treat it, the condition tends to recur, causing his once beautiful black eye circles to fade, leaving a noticeable white ring around his eyes.
Galley of Panda Meng Er
