At the Qinling Giant Panda Research Center, there's a protagonist who never ceases to captivate enthusiasts and experts alike. His name is Ba Zai, son of Qi Zai, and he was born on July 16, 2021. He is a giant panda cub with a captivating personality and international appeal. While he may not have inherited his father Qi Zai's famous chocolate-colored coat, the little one sports the timeless black-and-white color scheme that makes him instantly recognizable and irresistible to digital audiences.
Ba Zai Key Facts
- Name : Ba Zai (八仔)
- Nickname : Cai Baozi (菜包子 Vegetable Bun)
- Type : Male
- Date of birth July 16, 2021
- Place of birth Qinling Giant Panda Research Center (located in Xi'an, Shaanxi)
- Pedigree number : 1260
- Mother : Zheng Zheng (正正)
- Father : Qi Zai (七仔)
- Brothers: Zheng Zai (正仔)
Panda Ba Zai, son of Qi Zai, the extraordinary origins: the heir of a legend
Ba Zai's family history is already the stuff of nature news. His father, Qi Zai, is the only known brown giant panda in captivity, an extremely rare specimen discovered in 2009 in the Foping National Nature Reserve. Although young Ba Zai did not inherit this unique coloration, he still retains the special aura that distinguishes his genetic line, becoming a perfect ambassador for the conservation of the species.
Love for “milk in a bowl”
In the panda world, Ba Zai has already earned a reputation as a refined gourmet. His true weakness? "Peen milk." Milk served in his favorite bowl. As soon as he sees it, a comic sequence worthy of a viral reel ensues. Uncontainable enthusiasm, a few strategic reversals, and a finale in which the bowl is cleaned with a precision that would make any auditor envious. After the meal, as per the animal welfare manual, his ritual includes a scenic nap on the wooden platform where he loves to snooze.
Energy to spare: the panda that animates the group
Behaviorally, Ba Zai is a bundle of vitality. He loves chasing, jumping, engaging in good-natured skirmishes, and engaging in impromptu games with his enclosure mates. His spontaneous, sometimes exuberant, leadership leads the other pandas to follow him... or run away from him when his enthusiasm gets too high. He's the classic hyper-energetic colleague who still manages to make everyone smile.
Growth of the panda Ba Zai
First steps: Since his early days, the Qinling Giant Panda Research Center has provided Ba Zai with constant care and a targeted development path, consolidating his health and behavior.
Symbolic adoption: On April 22, 2024, Earth Day, Ba Zai became a "lifetime protege" of an alliance consisting of Didi Chuxing, Didi Public Welfare, the China Environmental Protection Foundation, and the Qinling Research Center itself. This initiative had a high reputational impact and amplified public and media interest.
Third birthday: On July 16, 2024, the young panda celebrated his third birthday with a party worthy of a wildlife star: fresh fruit, colorful vegetables, and an assortment of natural snacks selected for the occasion.
A panda that inspires global engagement
Ba Zai isn't just a fascinating specimen. She's become a case study in how biodiversity can generate attention, engagement, and environmental awareness. With her vibrant personality and narrative appeal, she continues to become a valuable communication asset in the protection of giant pandas.