Imagine a tiny panda cub born during a time of global uncertainty, bringing hope and joy to millions of people worldwide. Xiao Qi Ji (小奇迹/Xiaoqiji), or “Little Miracle,” wasn’t just any panda – his birth at the Smithsonian National Zoo was nothing short of extraordinary. Born to Mei Xiang at the age of 22, he defied the odds, capturing the hearts of panda lovers everywhere. His story, shared live with fans, is one that will make you believe in miracles.
Basic Information
- Name: Xiao Qi Ji (小奇迹)
- Meaning of the Name: Little Miracle
- Gender: Male
- Date of Birth: August 21, 2020
- Place of Birth: Smithsonian National Zoo, Washington, D.C.
- Father: Tian Tian (添添)
- Mother: Mei Xiang (美香)
- Siblings: Ao Ao (傲傲), Bao Bao (宝宝), Bei Bei (贝贝), and Tai Shan (泰山)
Life Experience of Panda Xiao Qi Ji
Birth Background: Xiao Qi Ji’s arrival into the world was truly remarkable. His mother, Mei Xiang, successfully gave birth to him at the age of 22 through artificial insemination, an achievement considered miraculous due to the low success rate of giant pandas giving birth at such an advanced age. Coincidentally, his birth occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic, bringing joy and hope to a world facing unprecedented challenges.
Live Stream: Before Mei Xiang went into labor, the National Zoo in Washington D.C. launched a 24-hour live stream, allowing giant panda fans around the world to witness this exciting moment. Due to the massive influx of viewers, the live streaming website temporarily crashed. The birth of Xiao Qi Ji attracted the attention of millions, with major media outlets eagerly reporting the event to celebrate the arrival of this “miracle.”
Naming Process: As Xiao Qi Ji approached his 100-day milestone, the Smithsonian National Zoo organized an online naming contest from November 16 to 20, 2020. Among the potential names were Fu Zai (meaning “fortune”), Xiao Qi Ji (meaning “little miracle”), Xing Fu (meaning “happiness”), and Zai Zai. In a decisive victory, the name “Xiao Qi Ji” emerged as the official name for this adorable panda cub, reflecting the miracle of his birth.
Early Life: At birth, Xiao Qi Ji weighed between 85 grams and 142 grams. Over the course of his first year, he grew into a lively and healthy young panda, weighing in at an impressive 27.2 kilograms. Every step of his journey captivated the hearts of panda lovers around the world. From his first cry to his first steps and his initial taste of sweet potato, all these “firsts” were shared through live streams, allowing fans to witness his growth in real time.
Return to China: Preparations for the return of Xiao Qi Ji and his parents, Mei Xiang and Tian Tian, to China began on October 25, 2023, as the Smithsonian National Zoo arranged for their departure. On November 8, 2023, Xiao Qi Ji and his parents boarded a specially chartered plane, arriving in Chengdu, Sichuan, at Shuangliu International Airport on November 9. After their arrival, Xiao Qi Ji moved to the Wolong Giant Panda Reserve’s Shenshuping Base, where he underwent a period of quarantine before making his official debut to the public.
