Panda Gonggong, the Adorable Panda in Hainan

Pandas, known as the national treasures of China, have captivated the hearts of people worldwide with their charming appearance and adorable behaviors. Among them, Gonggong, a male panda with lineage number 890, stands out as a particular favorite, especially now that he resides in Hainan Tropical Wildlife Botanical Garden. In this blog post, I'll share some fascinating details about Gonggong's life and his new home in Hainan.

Gonggong was born on August 18, 2013, at the Ya'an Bifengxia Base of China Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Panda. His parents are Lulu and Fengyi, both giant pandas. Gonggong has several siblings, including Nuannuan, Yiyi, Shengyi, and Bingjing. His early life was spent at the conservation center where he received care and attention from experts.

In 2015, Gonggong, along with his companion Shunshun, embarked on a trip to Taiyuan Zoo in Shanxi Province. They spent some time there before returning to the Bifengxia Base due to the zoo's closure for renovation in 2018. However, this was just a temporary setback for Gonggong, as he was soon destined for a new adventure.

In 2018, Hainan Tropical Wildlife Botanical Garden initiated negotiations with the China Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Panda to bring pandas to Hainan. After rigorous evaluations of the ecological environment, venue construction, and feeding techniques, the garden received approval from the National Forestry and Grassland Administration in September 2018. Preparations were made, and Gonggong, along with Shunshun, finally arrived in Hainan on November 10, 2018, becoming the first pandas to settle on Hainan Island.

Gonggong's new home, dubbed the "Panda World," is a specially designed facility with an outdoor sports area, indoor exhibition area, science education area, and logistical support service area. The outdoor sports area is equipped with rockeries, pools, lawns, and wooden climbing frames, providing ample space for the pandas to play and relax. The indoor exhibition area simulates a natural environment, with a tropical rainforest and bamboo forest backdrop, complete with wooden rocking chairs and perches.

Gonggong has settled into his new environment quite well. In winter, he enjoys spending time outdoors, basking in the sunshine and playing with toys. The staff at Hainan Tropical Wildlife Botanical Garden ensures that Gonggong has a diet rich in bamboo, his favorite food, as well as other nutritious supplements. Gonggong's daily routine includes eating, playing, and resting, and he often interacts with visitors through the glass walls of his enclosure, delighting everyone with his cute expressions and actions.

In addition to his daily activities, Gonggong has also participated in some special events. In 2020, he won the gold award for "China's Most Lovable Panda" at the Global Panda Awards held in Pairi Daiza Zoo in Belgium. This honor further solidified his status as a beloved panda.

As of 2024, Gonggong has been living in Hainan for over five years. He has celebrated several birthdays there, each one marked with a special celebration. On his 11th birthday in 2024, Gonggong enjoyed a luxurious birthday feast featuring traditional Hainanese cuisine and panda-friendly treats, sharing the joy with his fans and visitors.

In conclusion, Gonggong's story is a testament to the efforts made by conservationists and wildlife experts to ensure the well-being of giant pandas. His life in Hainan not only provides him with a comfortable and safe environment but also brings joy and education to countless visitors. Gonggong's charming presence has made Hainan Tropical Wildlife Botanical Garden a must-visit destination for panda lovers. Let's continue to support the conservation of giant pandas and hope for a future where they thrive in their natural habitats.