You You (佑佑) is a charismatic giant panda with a remarkable journey. Born on July 21, 2008, at the Bifengxia Base of the China Giant Panda Conservation and Research Center, You You has grown from a playful cub into a beloved giant panda with a fascinating history. From his early years and star appearance at the 2010 Shanghai Expo to his life in various exhibits and his current home at the Yabuli Panda House, You You’s life has been marked by adventure and charm. Now, alongside his half-sister Si Jia, he enjoys the unique environment of China’s northernmost panda facility, continuing to captivate hearts and bring joy to visitors.
Basic Information
- Name: You You (佑佑)
- Nickname: You Zi (柚子)
- Gender: Male
- Birth Date: July 21, 2008
- Birthplace: Bifengxia Base, China Giant Panda Conservation and Research Center
- Lineage Number: 707
- Father: Ling Ling (灵灵)
- Mother: Long Xin (龙欣)
- Siblings: Xi Wang (希望), Fu Ni (福妮), Fu Wa (福娃), Shui Ling (水灵), Qing Feng (清风), Han Yuan (汉媛), Hu Xiao (虎啸), Xin Yuan (新媛), Yuan Xin (园欣), Mai Mai (迈迈), and Xing Lu (兴路)
Intriguing Details of Panda You You
Appearance: You You is a charming panda with a medium-sized head, standard mouth shape, and a well-proportioned body. His fluffy cheeks, large round ears, and bright eyes contribute to his endearing appearance, making him look irresistibly cute.
Demolition Leader: You You once destroyed three outdoor shelters. On one occasion, he climbed to the top of a shelter to play but got stuck. Despite trying to stay calm and figuring out a way to come down, he ultimately had to call for help from the caretakers. This incident may have led to a lasting grudge between You You and the shelters, as he developed a particular obsession with climbing and demolishing them afterward. You You is curious about everything, even enjoying nibbling on his companions’ ears. He has also destroyed toys like the metal chains of swings and plastic balls during play.
Birthday Celebrations: On You You’s 8th birthday, the giant panda exhibit invited visitors to join in the celebration. When You You appeared, he immediately spotted the birthday “cake” placed in the center of the area. As the birthday song played, he happily ran over and started eating it. On his 13th birthday, his fans prepared a special gift for him—a plush octopus toy.
Snowy Day Fun: During the heavy snow season in Yabuli, You You and his companion, Si Jia, displayed very different reactions. While Si Jia (思嘉) frolicked and rolled in the thick snow, You You was much more cautious. He carefully tiptoed through the snow, sniffing and looking around, as if the snow was a bit “too hot” for him.
Life Experience of Panda You You
Birth and Early Years: Born and raised at the Bifengxia Base of the China Giant Panda Conservation and Research Center, You You grew up with his sister Han Yuan (汉媛), receiving specialized care and training.
Expo Journey: In 2010, You You was selected as one of the “Expo Pandas” for the Shanghai Expo, where he, along with Han Yuan and other pandas, spent nearly a year showcasing their charm to global visitors. This experience made You You and his companions stars of the Expo, promoting the appeal of giant pandas worldwide.
Various Exhibits: After the Expo, You You and Han Yuan were displayed at Ningbo Yaohua Zoo for over four years, receiving excellent care and becoming local favorites.
Matchmaking and New Home: In 2015, You You returned to the Wolong China Giant Panda Conservation and Research Center for matchmaking. On July 5, 2016, he and his half-sister Si Jia were moved to the Yabuli Panda House, their new home.
Current Status: You You currently resides with his half-sister Si Jia at the Yabuli Panda House in Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, the northernmost panda facility in China. The facility offers a suitable environment for the pandas, and under the care of dedicated keepers, You You and Si Jia have adapted well to the northeastern climate. They have spent nearly eight years in Yabuli, bringing joy to visitors and becoming cherished parts of their memories.