Yuan Xiao (缘小), also known as Le Shui, is a male giant panda with a unique and striking appearance, earning him the nickname “Li Kui of the Bears.” Born on August 6, 2006, at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, Yuan Xiao has had an eventful life, marked by both challenges and triumphs. Despite facing adversity early on, he has grown into a lively and beloved panda, capturing the hearts of many with his spirited personality.
Basic Information
- Name: Yuan Xiao (缘小)
- Nickname: Le Shui (乐水)
- Gender: Male
- Studbook Number: 628
- Date of Birth: August 6, 2006
- Birthplace: Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding
- Father: Lin Lin (琳琳)
- Mother: Qi Yuan (奇缘)
- Twin Brother: Yuan da (缘大)
- Siblings: Qi Fu (奇福), Qi Miao (奇妙), Ming Ming (明明), Qi Yi (奇一), Qi Guo (奇果), Si Yuan (思缘)
Intriguing Details of Panda Yuan Xiao
Fierce Look: Yuan Xiao is known for his distinct features, which give him a rather fierce look. His large, dark eye patches have earned him the nickname “Li Kui of the Pandas,” referring to a character known for his bold and imposing presence in Water Margin, a classic Chinese novel.
The Bear with Shaved Pants: In September 2008, while at the Chengdu Research Base, Yuan Xiao was accidentally injured when watching a playful tussle between his brother Yuan Da and Wu Yi (五一). His right hind leg became wedged between wooden planks, resulting in a fracture. To treat the injury, experts had to shave the fur off both of his hind legs, leading to his unfortunate nickname, “The Unlucky Bear with Shaved Pants.”
Beehive Incident: While at Qingdao Zoo, Quan Xiao displayed a strong sense of territoriality and would often take defensive actions when strangers approached. On one occasion, while playing on a swing, something that resembled a beehive accidentally dropped on Yuan Xiao’s Belly and he was instantly surrounded by bees. Fortunately, he was not injured.
Life Journey of Panda Yuan Xiao
Birth: Yuan Xiao was born to mother Qi Yuan in 2006 as her first cub. Along with his twin brother, Yuan Da, he became part of the world’s first giant panda twins born that year.
2008: Yuan Xiao spent some time living at Guizhou Zoo.
May 18, 2009: He returned to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.
November 29, 2011: Yuan Xiao returned once again to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.
January 2013: He was sent to Xiamen Haicang Zoo.
May 6, 2014: Yuan Xiao returned to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.
January 28, 2015: Yuan Xiao was sent to Qingdao Zoo, where he has remained ever since. At Qingdao Zoo, Yuan Xiao has received meticulous care from his keepers His living conditions are luxurious, featuring three air conditioners, swings, and a large swimming pool. During his time at Qingdao Zoo, Yuan Xiao has rarely been sick.