Tian Tian (甜甜/Tiantian)’s story is a heartwarming adventure that spans continents, capturing hearts along the way. With her sweet personality and unforgettable charm, this panda became an international sensation, beloved by fans in Scotland and beyond. Despite her struggles in the breeding program, her journey back to China in 2023 marks a new chapter for this iconic panda, and her return to her homeland promises a future as sweet as her name.
Basic Information
- Name: Tian Tian (甜甜)
- Date of Birth: August 24, 2003
- Place of Birth: Beijing Zoo
- Genealogy Number: 569
- Father: Ying Ying (迎迎)
- Mother: Niu Niu (妞妞)
Life Exprience of Panda Tian Tian
Name Origin: Shortly after her birth, Tian Tian captured attention with her adorable appearance and lively personality. Her name, meaning “sweet,” reflects her sweet looks and life as delightful as honey.
Reloations: On October 20, 2004, Tian Tian was moved to the Wolong Giant Panda Protection and Research Center’s wild training base in China. Four years later, on March 13, 2008, she made another move to the Ya’an Bifengxia Base of the China Giant Panda Protection and Research Center.
Breeding Achievements: On August 7, 2009, Tian Tian gave birth to twin cubs, Bo Si (博斯) and Shen Wei (绅威), after mating with Xi Meng (希梦). The twins were sent to Guangzhou Chimelong Safari Park on October 27, 2010. Later, Bo Si returned to the Giant Panda Conservation and Research Center on March 7, 2017, to join the breeding program. Meanwhile, Shen Wei was transferred to Nanjing Tangshan Ziqing Lake Wildlife Park on August 28, 2019.
Travel to Scotland: In December 2011, Tian Tian and Yang Guang (阳光) were loaned to the Edinburgh Zoo in Scotland, marking the beginning of her international journey. The loan agreement was set for ten years, during which she would become an ambassador for her species. They were provided with bamboo flown in from the Netherlands, as well as a specially designed garden villa that enhanced their living conditions.
Life in Scotland: At the Edinburgh Zoo, Tian Tian quickly gained fame as a local animal celebrity, beloved by the British public. In 2011, she was even selected by the BBC as one of the twelve candidates for the “Woman of the Year,” a decision that sparked considerable debate and led to the term “PandaGate” trending online in the UK.
Failed Breeding Attempts: Despite the zoo’s hopes for a successful breeding pair, Tian Tian and Yang Guang did not form an emotional bond, which hindered their chances of producing offspring. The zoo employed various technological methods in their attempts to encourage breeding, but these efforts ultimately did not yield any results.
Postponed Return: According to the loan agreement, Tian Tian and Yang Guang were originally scheduled to return to China in 2021. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic and other unforeseen circumstances, their return was postponed for two years. Ultimately, they embarked on their long-awaited journey back home in early December 2023.
Back to China: Before their departure, both pandas underwent essential health checks and quarantine procedures to ensure their safe return to China. On December 4, 2023, Tian Tian left the Edinburgh Zoo and boarded a flight back to her homeland. Upon arriving at Chengdu Shuangliu Airport, she was transported by special vehicle to the Ya’an Bifengxia Base, where she began a month-long quarantine period to adjust back to her home environment.
