Meet Qing Cheng (青城), a lively male giant panda born on August 11, 2017, at the China Giant Panda Protection and Research Center’s Walnut Flat Wild Training Base. With a name inspired by the renowned Qingcheng Mountain in Sichuan, which also phonetically resembles the phrase “倾城” (meaning “captivating”), Qing Cheng has gained a significant online following and has become a charming celebrity among panda enthusiasts. Known affectionately as “Taffy,” this little panda’s unique personality and playful antics have won the hearts of many.
Basic Information
- Name: Qing Cheng (青城)
- A.K.A: Gang Gang (刚刚)
- Gender: Male
- Date of Birth: August 11, 2017
- Place of Birth: China Giant Panda Protection and Research Center, Walnut Flat Wild Training Base
- Lineage Number: 1102
- Mother: Fei Fei (妃妃)
- Siblings: Le Sheng (乐生), Jing Jing (晶晶), Ao Yun (奥运), Fei Yun (飞云), Yun Tao (云涛), Bing Qing (冰清), Yi Yun (怡云), Feng Yi (凤仪)
Intriguing Details of Panda Qing Cheng
Name Origin: Qing Cheng’s name derives from the famous Qingcheng Mountain in Sichuan, known for its breathtaking scenery and rich Taoist heritage. The name also carries a phonetic meaning of “倾城,” suggesting something captivating or enchanting. His affectionate nickname, “Taffy,” adds to his charm and appeal.
Little Mop: As a cub, Qing Cheng was extremely clingy to his mom, constantly seeking hugs and kisses from her. However, his mother, Fei Fei, who had raised several cubs before, wasn’t too fond of such behavior. She would often grab Qing Cheng by the neck and drag him along the ground. This earned him the nickname “Little Mop.”
Mischievous Trouble-Maker: Qing Cheng was a mischievous cub. He once pushed his resting mom into a ditch and would often treat her like a horse, climbing on her back to ride. He loved digging around in the dirt, getting completely covered in mud, and then running to his mom for hugs – only to be immediately shrugged off by her.
The Martial Artist of Qingcheng Sect: Living at a panda base at the foot of Mount Qingcheng, Qing Cheng is regarded as a true inheritor of the martial arts of the Qingcheng Sect. He often chose the small stream behind the bamboo grove as his “training ground.” When disputes arose during playtime with his companions, Qing Cheng would step in, showing a heroic and chivalrous demeanor.
Toy Destroyer: Qing Cheng is lively and energetic, often leaving the indoor enclosure looking as though “a storm has passed through.” He possesses the bravery and resilience of a boy and excels at interacting with all kinds of toys, earning a reputation for being one of the most efficient “toy destroyers” in the panda world.
Hanging Hook: Qing Cheng enjoys doing somersaults and climbing trees. He once became famous in the panda community for his impressive “hanging hook” maneuver while climbing a tree.
Always Hungry: With a big appetite, Qing Cheng eats like a “food-crushing machine,” astonishing everyone with his incredible speed during meals.
Life Experience of Panda Qing Cheng
Birth: Qing Cheng weighed only about 145 grams at birth, just 0.1% of his mother Fei Fei’s weight, making him extremely lightweight. Under the dedicated care of his mother, Qing Cheng thrived during this critical growth phase.
Move to Dujiangyan: In 2018, Qing Cheng moved from the Walnut Flat Wild Training Base to the Dujiangyan Base, where he transitioned into a new living environment that allowed for further growth and exploration.
Settle in Anshan: On May 21, 2020, Qing Cheng embarked on a new adventure when he and another panda, A Ling (阿灵), were sent to the Anshan City 219 Zoo’s panda exhibit for a period of time.
Birthday Celebration: On August 11, 2023, Qing Cheng celebrated his 6th birthday. Anshan Zoo prepared a specially made birthday feast for him, and many citizens and tourists came to celebrate with him.