Panda Updates – Monday, March 6

Yesterday was my first day working with the pandas in three weeks. I get regular updates from the primary panda keepers about how all of the pandas are doing, but I wasn’t prepared for just how big the girls had grown in that time. Both girls have gained around a kilogram (2.2 pounds) since I saw them last. They’re falling into the building routine, and when they’re awake, they’re definitely a handful. When I arrived at 7 a.m. yesterday morning, I was greeted by two hungry adults and two very playful cubs. When I pulled the cubs for their morning weights, I was surprised at Xi Lun’s weight, but her personality hasn’t changed much. She was just as calm and helpful as she usually is when weighing her. Ya Lun had other plans. She not only surprised me with her weight, but also her strength! It took me about half an hour of off and on attempts to weigh her because she was so wiggly and rambunctious that I actually had a hard time getting her to stay on the scale. It’s a great reminder that they are growing into the amazing bears that they are!
Jen A.
Keeper II, Mammals