Farewell to Giant Pandas Yuanxiao and Beibei: Beloved Duo Returns to Chengdu May 11, 2025
This week, the city of Qingdao bids a bittersweet goodbye to two cherished residents—giant pandas Yuanxiao (nicknamed "Little Yuan") and Beibei—who will depart on May 9 to return to their hometown at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. Their departure marks the end of a decade-long stay in Qingdao, where they captured the hearts of locals and tourists alike.
Meet Yuanxiao: The "Pantsless Panda" Turned Internet Sensation
Yuanxiao , a male panda born in August 2006, arrived in Qingdao in January 2015. Known for his bold and mischievous personality, Yuanxiao became a viral sensation long before his move to Qingdao. In 2008, a young Yuanxiao was injured during a playful "battle" with fellow pandas at the Chengdu base. His right hind leg got stuck in a wooden gap, leading to a fracture. During surgery, veterinarians shaved off the fur on his hind legs, resulting in an iconic "pantsless" photo that spread across the internet and earned him the nickname "The Panda Who Lost His Pants". Despite the ordeal, Yuanxiao recovered fully and thrived in Qingdao, charming visitors with his energetic antics.
Beibei: The Gentle Giantess
Beibei, a female panda born in August 2008, arrived in Qingdao in May 2014. Described as shy and graceful, she contrasts beautifully with Yuanxiao’s lively demeanor. Weighing 120 kg, Beibei has spent nearly 11 years in Qingdao, becoming a symbol of tranquility at the zoo. Her calm nature and photogenic poses made her a favorite among visitors, especially children.
Life in Qingdao: VIP Treatment for the Duo
During their stay, Yuanxiao and Beibei enjoyed world-class care at the Qingdao Zoo’s state-of-the-art panda pavilion, built in 2014. The facility features spacious indoor and outdoor areas, climate-controlled environments, climbing structures, and pools. A dedicated team of nine caretakers, including wildlife specialists and veterinarians, ensured their well-being with 24/7 monitoring, fresh bamboo flown in from Chengdu every two days, and regular health checkups. Each panda consumed about 50 kg of bamboo daily, supplemented with nutrient-rich buns and fruits68.
Why Are They Leaving?
The pandas’ return to Chengdu follows the expiration of Qingdao Zoo’s loan agreement with the Chengdu base. Additionally, the zoo plans to renovate its panda habitat to meet updated standards, after which new pandas may be welcomed. To celebrate their departure, the zoo hosted farewell events on May 7–8, allowing fans to say goodbye and share memories of the beloved pair17.
Legacy in Qingdao
Yuanxiao and Beibei’s time in Qingdao not only brought joy to millions but also highlighted China’s efforts in giant panda conservation. Their story—from Yuanxiao’s viral fame to Beibei’s quiet elegance—reflects the unique personalities of these endangered creatures. As they return to Chengdu, their legacy reminds us of the importance of wildlife protection and global collaboration in safeguarding these national treasures.
Final Note
For those who wish to visit Yuanxiao and Beibei in the future, keep an eye on updates from the Chengdu Research Base. Meanwhile, Qingdao Zoo’s commitment to hosting pandas will continue, ensuring that the city’s bond with these magnificent animals remains unbroken.
"Goodbyes are not forever. They simply mean we’ll miss you until we meet again."
