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.
Name | Gender | Lineage Number | Date of Birth | Date of Death |
---|---|---|---|---|
Xing Xing (星星) | Male | 356 | October 4, 1989 | December 2000 |
Ya Ya (娅娅) | Female | 362 | August 24, 1990 | Living |
Xiang Xiang (祥祥) | Male | 363 | August 24, 1990 | July 20, 1996 |
Li Li (莉莉) | Female | 387 | September 3, 1992 | Living |
Jing Rong (京蓉) | Female | 388 | September 3, 1992 | April 8, 2010 |
Jian Jian (健健) | Male | 400 | September 19, 1993 | December 9, 2003 |
Er Ya Tou (二丫头) | Female | 401 | September 19, 1993 | Living |
Da Shuang (大双) | Female | 453 | September 1, 1997 | Living |
Xiao Shuang (小双) | Male | 454 | September 1, 1997 | Living |
Liang Liang (亮亮) | Male | 515 | August 18, 2000 | Living |
Qing He (庆贺) | Female | 537 | September 24, 2001 | Living |
Qing Zai (庆仔) | Male | 575 | September 9, 2003 | Living |