Panda Updates – Monday, March 5

The weaning process is almost complete, and everything has gone how we expected. Unless they want to nurse, the cubs have shown very little interest toward their mom. Since she is spending more time away from the cubs, Lun Lun is naturally producing less milk. Warm milk is more comforting and an easy meal, so it’s no big surprise that the cubs are taking advantage of Mom! As long as giant panda cubs are with their mom, they will nurse. But the vast majority of the cub’s caloric intake is now from the bamboo, produce and leafeater biscuits they consume. Mom’s milk is like dessert, and while we all like dessert, it’s not a necessary part of our diet (although sometimes I act like it is!).
Jen W.
Keeper III, Mammals

(photo by Jen W.)