Panda Qi Qiao (七巧), born on August 2, 2014, at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, shares a unique connection with Chinese tradition. Her name, “Qi Qiao,” was inspired by the Qixi Festival, celebrated on the day of her birth. As the older twin, she and her sister, Qi Xi, quickly became popular stars at the Chengdu Panda Base and later at Ordos Zoo in Inner Mongolia, where their playful personalities and heartwarming antics have captured the hearts of many visitors.
Basic Information
- Name: Qi Qiao (七巧)
- Date of Birth: August 2, 2014
- Birthplace: Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding
- Gender: Female
- Father: Mei Lan (美兰)
- Mother: Qi Fu (奇福)
- Twin Sister: Qi Xi (七喜)
- Other Siblings: Fu Shun (福顺), Fu Lai (福来), Fu Duo Duo (福多多)
Name Origin and Meaning
Qi Qiao’s name reflects her birth on the Chinese Qixi Festival, often referred to as the “Chinese Valentine’s Day.” The Qixi Festival fell on August 2, 2014, according to the lunar calendar. As part of the holiday, people practice traditional customs like “threading needles” to wish for skill and wisdom. In honor of this tradition, the panda born on this day was named “Qi Qiao,” meaning “Seven Skills” or “Cleverness,” representing both the holiday and her playful, curious nature. Her twin sister was born the following day, and the name “Qi Xi” (a homophone for “Qixi”) was chosen to signify their bond as twins.
Life Experiences of Panda Qi Qiao
In her early days, Qi Qiao, along with her twin sister Qi Xi, became a beloved pair at the Chengdu Panda Base. The two pandas grew strong and healthy under the devoted care of their keepers, and they quickly displayed the charming and playful behavior that pandas are known for.
On September 26, 2016, Qi Qiao and Qi Xi moved to Ordos Zoo in Inner Mongolia, where they began a new chapter in a larger, enriched environment with more toys and activities. This change provided them with more space and stimulation, allowing them to continue living happily and engaging with their surroundings.
Since arriving at Ordos Zoo, Qi Qiao and her twin sister have enjoyed a lifestyle that could be described as “star treatment.” The zoo has a dedicated team of keepers who look after their daily routines, including designated feeding, play, and rest times. In addition to their daily care, the zoo organizes special events like birthday parties for the twin pandas, attracting numerous visitors eager to celebrate these adorable creatures.