Yuan Xiao (缘小/Yuanxiao), with his bold, fierce look and those dark eye patches, might just remind you of a panda version of a legendary hero – affectionately dubbed “Li Kui of the Pandas.” But don’t be fooled by his tough exterior! Born on August 6, 2006, this panda has had his fair share of adventures, from accidental “shaved pants” moments to unexpected run-ins with bees. His journey is a wild ride, and he’s still rocking it with his signature charm.
Basic Information
- Name: Yuan Xiao (缘小)
- Meaning of the Name: The Little Cub of Yuan Family
- Formal Name: Le Shui (乐水/Leshui)
- 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 instantly recognizable thanks to his bold, intense features – especially his large, inky eye patches that give him a tough, no-nonsense look. His fierce expression has earned him the nickname “Li Kui of the Pandas,” after the famously fierce and formidable character from the classic novel Water Margin. Don’t be fooled though—beneath that warrior gaze is a heart full of curiosity.
The Bear with Shaved Pants: In September 2008, while living at the Chengdu Research Base, Yuan Xiao had an unexpected mishap. He was innocently watching his brother Yuan Da and companion Wu Yi (五一) in a lively wrestling match when his right hind leg slipped between two wooden planks – resulting in a painful fracture. To treat the injury, vets had to shave the fur off both his hind legs. The result? A new nickname from amused fans: “The Unlucky Bear with Shaved Pants.”
Beehive Incident: At Qingdao Zoo, Yuan Xiao’s protective instincts were on full display. Known for being territorial, he always kept a watchful eye when strangers came near. But one day, while enjoying a peaceful moment on a swing, a mysterious object – resembling a beehive – suddenly fell onto his belly. Before he knew it, a swarm of bees surrounded him in a buzzing frenzy! Thankfully, the incident ended without injury, though it surely added another wild tale to his already colorful legend.
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. 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.
May 13, 2025: Yuan Xiao and Bei Bei left Qingdao Zoo and returned to Chengdu Panda Base.
