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Environment

Unprecedented Panda Birth: Hong Kong Welcomes Twin Cubs from Record-Breaking Mother

Friday 16 August 2024 - 15:30

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In a remarkable development, Hong Kong's Ocean Park has announced the birth of twin panda cubs, marking a significant milestone in conservation efforts. The mother, Ying Ying, has set a new record as the oldest first-time panda to give birth, delivering the cubs just one day before her 19th birthday, which is equivalent to 57 years in human terms.

Paulo Pong, chairman of Ocean Park Corporation, emphasized the exceptional nature of this event. "This birth is a true rarity, especially considering Ying Ying's age," he stated late Thursday.

The female cub, weighing 122 grams (4.3 ounces), was born first, followed by her brother at 112 grams (3.95 ounces) just over an hour later. Both cubs are currently under intensive care and will not be presented to the public for several months. The park reports that the cubs are in a delicate state, with particular concern for the female cub, who exhibits lower body temperature, weaker cries, and reduced food intake.

Ying Ying's pregnancy, only confirmed days before the birth, came as a surprise to many. The new mother endured a challenging five-hour labor, displaying nervousness throughout the process. "She spent much of her time lying on the ground and twisting," the park noted.

The successful conception occurred naturally in March when Ying Ying and her partner, Le Le, mated at the park. This success follows previous unsuccessful attempts at both natural mating and artificial insemination.

Hong Kong's Chief Executive, John Lee, expressed gratitude to the Chinese central government for entrusting Ying Ying and Le Le to Hong Kong, viewing it as a demonstration of support for the city. Lee also announced that Beijing plans to send another pair of pandas to Hong Kong later this year.

This birth is particularly significant given the notoriously low reproduction rates among giant pandas, especially in older individuals. However, recent breeding programs have shown increasing success, contributing to the species' status improvement from "endangered" to "vulnerable."

The event in Hong Kong coincides with other panda-related news globally. In the United States, San Diego recently welcomed its first pair of giant pandas in two decades, with more expected to arrive at the National Zoo in Washington. Meanwhile, in Berlin, Meng Meng, another panda, is anticipating the birth of her second set of twins.

These developments underscore the ongoing importance of international cooperation in panda conservation efforts. As symbols of China's natural heritage, pandas continue to play a crucial role in fostering diplomatic relationships and promoting global wildlife preservation initiatives.

The birth of these twin cubs in Hong Kong not only represents a personal triumph for Ying Ying but also signifies a hopeful step forward in the ongoing journey to protect and propagate this iconic species.