Zhao Mei (昭美) is a remarkable giant panda with a story of resilience and adaptation. Rescued as a fragile cub from the mountainous regions of Sichuan Province in 2014, Zhao Mei has since become a beloved resident of the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. Her journey from a struggling orphan to a thriving adult and mother highlights the dedicated efforts of wildlife conservationists and the enduring spirit of this iconic species.
Basic Information
- Name: Zhao Mei (昭美)
- Nickname: Zhao Xiao Mei (昭小美)
- Gender: Female
- Lineage Number: 990
- Rescue Date: May 9, 2014 (Originally discovered on May 7)
- Current Residence: Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding
Rescue Experience
- Discovery Location: The mountainous areas of Zhaojue County and Meigu County in Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province.
- Rescue Process: On May 7, 2014, a villager from Zhaojue County discovered an animal resembling a giant panda while returning from grazing. The villager immediately contacted local forest police. Upon confirmation, it was determined that the animal was far from suitable panda habitats and that there was insufficient bamboo nearby. On May 8, the animal was transferred to the Meigu Dafengding Nature Reserve Administration for diagnosis. On the evening of May 9, rescue experts from the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding arrived, anesthetized the panda, and conducted a thorough physical examination. Due to Zhao Mei’s poor health, including inflammation and weakness, it was decided, with approval from the Liangshan Forestry Bureau and the provincial Forestry Department, to transfer her to the Chengdu Research Base for specialized treatment.
- Name Origin: The name “Zhao Mei” is derived from her discovery location – Zhaojue County and Meigu County. Since she was rescued by the Meigu Dafengding Nature Reserve Administration, she was named “Zhao Mei.”
Physical Condition and Behavior
- Post-Treatment Condition: After a period of medication and careful recovery, Zhao Mei’s health improved, and she adapted to the captive environment. Despite years of recovery, she remains cautious and alert, reacting to even the slightest sounds and sometimes retreating to corners.
- Dietary Habits: Zhao Mei has a particular fondness for bamboo and prefers it even during bamboo shoot season. She eats with no wastefulness, especially when it comes to her favorite bamboo, displaying a “live-streaming” eating mode.
Breeding Situation
After living at the panda base for several years, Zhao Mei successfully gave birth to a male giant panda cub named Jin Bao on August 9, 2019, marking her first experience as a mother. Additionally, she gave birth to a female giant panda cub named Jin Xiao on July 23, 2021.
