Panda Xing Er: A Journey to Denmark

Pandas, those adorable and endangered giants of the forest, have always captured the hearts of people around the world. One such panda, Xing Er, has recently embarked on an exciting journey from his birthplace in Chengdu, China, to Denmark, where he will be a new resident at the Copenhagen Zoo. This blog post will delve into the story of Xing Er, his journey to Denmark, his new lifestyle, and the significance of this international collaboration.

Xing Er, with a pedigree number of 900, is a male panda born on August 23, 2013, at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. He has a twin brother named Star Yi, and their father is Yong Yong, while their mother is Xing Rong. Xing Er is known for his lively personality, love for climbing trees, and enjoying a good soak in his bath. His playful antics have made him a favorite among panda enthusiasts.

On April 4, 2019, Xing Er, along with his female companion Mao Sun (also known as Mao Er or Mao Zhen in her youth), embarked on a special mission to Denmark. The two pandas were sent to Copenhagen Zoo as part of a 15-year research and conservation collaboration between China and Denmark. Their departure was celebrated with a farewell ceremony at the Chengdu Research Base, where they were bid farewell by their caretakers and well-wishers.

Upon their arrival in Denmark, Xing Er and Mao Sun were welcomed with open arms. The Danes were eagerly waiting to see their new panda residents. The zoo organized a grand opening ceremony, attended by Denmark's Queen Margrethe II, who officially inaugurated the panda enclosure. The event was a celebration of the partnership between China and Denmark, as well as a testament to the importance of conservation efforts.

Xing Er's new home at the Copenhagen Zoo is a luxurious and spacious environment tailored to meet his needs. The panda enclosure, designed with the concept of "yin and yang," perfectly reflects the pandas' dual nature of calmness and liveliness, as well as their iconic black and white colors. It is equipped with climbing structures, pools, and plenty of bamboo to keep Xing Er entertained and well-fed. The zoo staff is highly trained and dedicated to ensuring the well-being of Xing Er and Mao Sun, monitoring their health, diet, and behavior closely to ensure they adapt well to their new environment.

In Denmark, Xing Er has embraced a new lifestyle that combines adventure and relaxation. He spends his days exploring his enclosure, climbing trees, and playing with his toys. Xing Er is particularly fond of his pool, where he enjoys a refreshing soak after a long day of play. His diet consists of a variety of bamboo species, ensuring he receives the necessary nutrients to maintain his health.

Despite his new surroundings, Xing Er's playful nature has not changed. He is known for his curiosity and love for exploration, often venturing into new areas of his enclosure. In June 2020, he made headlines when he escaped from his enclosure during the zoo's closing hours. Staff quickly located him and, after a brief chase, administered a sedative to safely return him to his home. The incident, although unexpected, underscored the importance of secure enclosures and the dedication of the zoo staff.

Xing Er's journey to Denmark is not just about providing him with a new home; it's about sharing the magic of pandas with a new audience. Pandas are symbols of conservation and diplomacy, and their presence in Denmark serves as a reminder of the global effort required to protect endangered species. By collaborating with countries like Denmark, China is able to share its expertise in panda conservation, while also learning from international practices.

Xing Er's lifestyle in Denmark is a reflection of the dedication and care provided by the Copenhagen Zoo staff. Their commitment to ensuring the well-being of Xing Er and Mao Sun is evident in the luxurious and spacious enclosure, diverse diet, and playful environment. As we continue to learn more about pandas and their needs, we hope that Xing Er's story inspires others to join the conservation effort, ensuring that these amazing creatures continue to thrive for generations to come.