Panda Updates – Friday, March 10

I know I wrote about Xi Lun coming in last week on her own, but she is doing so well at coming in when called, I have to brag about her again. Typically, at 6 months old, panda cubs are content to stay where they are (usually up high) and sleep the day away. But, this week, Xi Lun has come in from the dayroom when called at least once a day. Yesterday, she came in twice! Right now, we are reinforcing the behavior with verbal praise. Soon she will start eating the leafeater biscuits and produce like her parents, and we can give her a food reward for behavior that we want to continue. I am so excited about how well Xi Lun is already responding to verbal cues and praise. It’s never too young to start training!
Heather R.
Senior Keeper, Carnivores