Tian Tian (添添), a beloved giant panda, has captured the hearts of many throughout her remarkable journey, which began on August 27, 1997, at the Wolong National Nature Reserve in China. As a symbol of international cooperation in wildlife conservation, Tian Tian’s life story reflects the enduring bond between humans and animals, highlighting the importance of preserving endangered species. After a successful 23-year journey in the United States, where she and her mate became stars at the National Zoo in Washington, D.C., Tian Tian returned to her homeland in 2023, marking a significant milestone in her life.
Basic Information
- Name: Tian Tian (添添)
- Date of Birth: August 27, 1997
- Place of Birth: Wolong National Nature Reserve, China
- Genealogy Number: 466
- Father: Pan Pan (盼盼)
- Mother: Yong Ba (永巴)
- Wife: Mei Xiang (美香)
Family Members
Tian Tian is married to another giant panda named Mei Xiang. Together, they have successfully raised several cubs during their time in the United States, including Tai Shan (泰山), Bao Bao (宝宝), Bei Bei (贝贝), and Xiao Qi Ji (小奇迹). While Tai Shan, Bao Bao, and Bei Bei have returned to China, Xiao Qi Ji joined his parents on their journey back in 2023.
Life in the United States
On December 6, 2000, Tian Tian and Mei Xiang left the Wolong reserve as “ambassadors of Sino-American friendship,” embarking on a 23-year journey to the National Zoo in Washington, D.C. During their time in America, they quickly became the stars of the zoo, delighting visitors and garnering significant media attention. Their presence not only attracted a large number of guests but also fostered collaboration between China and the United States in the fields of panda conservation and research.
Throughout their years in the U.S., Tian Tian and Mei Xiang received excellent care and attention from their caretakers. As they aged, however, they began to face common health issues associated with older pandas, including arthritis and hypertension. Thanks to the combined efforts of the China Giant Panda Protection and Research Center and the National Zoo, these health concerns were effectively managed, allowing the pandas to maintain a good quality of life.
Return to China
Tian Tian, Mei Xiang, and Xiao Qi Ji began their journey back to China on November 8, 2023. After a long flight, they safely arrived at Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport on November 9. Upon their return, they were taken to the Dujiangyan Base of the China Giant Panda Protection and Research Center for a period of quarantine.
During this quarantine, a professional team provided specialized care and attention to help the pandas adjust to their new environment. Now, Tian Tian and Mei Xiang have settled into their lives back in China, enjoying a peaceful and tranquil retirement under the dedicated care of the research center.
