Zhu Zhu (珠珠), a remarkable female giant panda, has made significant contributions to panda conservation and breeding at the Qinling Giant Panda Research Center. Born on August 6, 2000, to her mother, Bai Xue, Zhu Zhu has established herself as an exceptional mother and a symbol of nurturing within the panda community. Her legacy is marked not only by the number of cubs she has produced but also by the quality of care she provides to each one. With her intelligence, playful nature, and maternal instincts, Zhu Zhu continues to inspire those around her and plays a crucial role in the future of giant pandas.
Basic Information
- Name: Zhu Zhu (珠珠)
- Gender: Female
- Lineage Number: 509
- Date of Birth: August 6, 2000
- Mother: Bai Xue (白雪)
- Primary Residence: Qinling Giant Panda Research Center
Breeding Contributions
Zhu Zhu’s breeding history at the Qinling Giant Panda Research Center is nothing short of legendary. To date, she has given birth to six litters, totaling seven cubs, setting a breeding record for the center. Below are some highlights of her breeding achievements:
- In 2008, at the age of eight, Zhu Zhu gave birth to her first cub, a male panda named Qin Chuan (秦川).
- In 2009, she welcomed another female panda, Ya Ya (丫丫).
- On September 27, 2013, she gave birth to her daughter, An An (安安).
- On August 21, 2017, she had another daughter named Meng Meng (梦梦).
- On July 10, 2019, she made headlines with the birth of a pair of twins, Jia Jia (佳佳) and Yuan Yuan (园园).
- Remarkably, on October 11, 2020, at the age of 20, Zhu Zhu gave birth to a male cub named Qin Hua (秦华).
Zhu Zhu’s breeding success is not only reflected in the number of cubs but also in their health and development. Her offspring are robust and thrive under her care, significantly contributing to the population of giant pandas at the Qinling center.
Personality Traits
Zhu Zhu is known for her intelligence, lively spirit, and strong maternal instincts. During daily training sessions, she displays quick learning and impressive agility, showcasing her high intelligence. Her care for her cubs is meticulous; she cradles them tenderly, using her forelimbs to protect them while frequently licking them to express her deep maternal affection. This nurturing behavior highlights her exceptional qualities as a mother and her commitment to her young.
Behind the Scenes
In addition to her impressive breeding record, Zhu Zhu has also played a pivotal role as a foster mother to the world’s only artificially bred brown giant panda, Qi Zai (七仔). When Qi Zai was young and frail, Zhu Zhu selflessly accepted him into her care, nursing him with her own milk and helping him grow strong and healthy. This heartwarming story illustrates Zhu Zhu’s greatness and selflessness as a panda mother, emphasizing her nurturing nature beyond her biological offspring.
Gallery of Panda Zhu Zhu
