Panda Qing Qing: The Longest-Lived Giant Panda

Panda Qing Qing 38 Years Old

Qing Qing (庆庆), a cherished female giant panda, was born on September 9, 1984, at Chengdu Zoo and passed away on January 20, 2023. Throughout her life, she garnered immense recognition not only for her adorable appearance but also for her groundbreaking contributions to panda breeding. Qing Qing became a celebrated figure in the panda community, earning the title of “Heroic Mother” due to her extraordinary maternal achievements and unwavering dedication to her offspring.

Basic Information

  • Name: Qing Qing (庆庆)
  • Gender: Female
  • Date of Birth: September 9, 1984
  • Date of Death: January 20, 2023
  • Birthplace: Chengdu Zoo
  • Mother: Mei Mei (美美)

Life Experience of Panda Qing Qing

Travel to Japan: Qing Qing’s life was filled with noteworthy experiences that shaped her journey as a beloved panda. In October 1988, she briefly resided at the Shirahama Adventure World in Wakayama, Japan, before returning to China in January 1989 to the Chengdu Giant Panda Breeding Research Base.

Domestic Relocations: Over the years, Qing Qing also ventured to several other zoos for breeding programs and exhibitions. On September 28, 2005, she was transferred to Wuhan Zoo, and later on July 8, 2007, she returned to Chengdu. She made another trip to Changsha Ecological Zoo on March 20, 2008, before finally settling back at the Chengdu Giant Panda Breeding Research Base on September 5, 2010.

Qing Qing’s life came to an end on January 20, 2023, at the Chengdu Giant Panda Breeding Research Base. At the age of 38 years, 4 months, and 11 days, Qing Qing currently holds the record for the longest-lived giant panda ever recorded.

Breeding Achievements of Panda Qing Qing

World’s First Pair of Panda Twins: In 1990, with the assistance of artificial breeding techniques, Qing Qing successfully gave birth to the world’s first pair of surviving giant panda twins, named Ya Ya (娅娅) and Xiang Xiang (祥祥). This groundbreaking achievement marked a pivotal moment in the history of panda breeding, representing a significant advancement in the techniques used for breeding captive pandas.

Simultaneous Nurturing of Multiple Cubs: Qing Qing achieved a remarkable feat by successfully raising three panda cubs at the same time. Notably, she stepped in to help care for the cubs of her sick mother, Mei Mei, demonstrating her remarkable compassion and selflessness.

NameGenderLineage NumberDate of BirthDate of Death
Xing Xing (星星)Male356October 4, 1989December 2000
Ya Ya (娅娅)Female362August 24, 1990Living
Xiang Xiang (祥祥)Male363August 24, 1990July 20, 1996
Li Li (莉莉)Female387September 3, 1992Living
Jing Rong (京蓉)Female388September 3, 1992April 8, 2010
Jian Jian (健健)Male400September 19, 1993December 9, 2003
Er Ya Tou (二丫头)Female401September 19, 1993Living
Da Shuang (大双)Female453September 1, 1997Living
Xiao Shuang (小双)Male454September 1, 1997Living
Liang Liang (亮亮)Male515August 18, 2000Living
Qing He (庆贺)Female537September 24, 2001Living
Qing Zai (庆仔)Male575September 9, 2003Living