Taipei Zoo’s newest giant panda, Yuan Zai (圓仔), yesterday celebrated her second birthday, with the zoo closing her enclosure to the public for the day so that her keepers could serve a special ice-treats cake.
Yuan Zai was born at the zoo on July 6, 2013, the first giant panda born in Taiwan.
She was bred through artificial insemination to parents Tuan Tuan (團團) and Yuan Yuan (圓圓), who were given to Taiwan in December 2008 by China as part of Beijing’s “panda diplomacy.”
Photo: CNA
The zoo also threw Yuan Zai a birthday party on Saturday, serving her a cake from a local bakery.
Yesterday’s ice cake contained all of Yuan Zai’s favorite fruits and vegetables, including carrots, grapes, bamboo leaves, apple and pineapple.
Staff members posted congratulatory cards from the cub’s fans and encouraged people to post messages to the message board for Yuan Zai. Fans have also given an assortment of toys made from burlap bags and soft wood chips.
According to Taipei Zoo, Yuan Zai’s routine is one of immense relaxation. Only 2 to 3 percent of her day is spent moving around, otherwise she spends her time sleeping and eating, although staff encourage muscle strengthening activities.
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