Among the many giant pandas studied and loved in China, Lou A Bao (楼阿宝) occupies a special place. Discovered the July 5, 2008 in the Sujiagou Forest, in the Taibai County (Shaanxi), was rescued and taken to the Shaanxi Rare Wildlife Rescue and Breeding Research Center. Since then, his path has taken him through several conservation institutions, until the Qinling Giant Panda Research Center, where he continues to be one of the most beloved protagonists. With the registration number 703 In the panda genealogical book, Lou A Bao is recognized for his lively and independent personality. But what really sets him apart are two now iconic details: his passion for "yoga" and his unmistakable V-shaped ear which earned him the nickname of wrench-eared panda. The shape of his ear, however, is not a malformation. Rather, the indelible mark of an argument with Qi Zai.
Information
- Name: Lou A Bao (楼阿宝)
- Type: Male
- Genealogical book registration number: 703
- Date of birth: 2007 (exact date unknown), but discovered on July 5, 2008
- Place of discovery: Sujiagou Forestry Company, Taibai County Forestry Bureau, Shaanxi
The “panda yogi” and his playful style
Anyone who has watched Lou A Bao knows that he's no ordinary panda. In videos and daily observations, he's known for his balancing acts.. He lifts his head and keeps it resting on his feet. in a position reminiscent of a yoga contortion. This apparently funny behavior demonstrates the great physical flexibility and motor curiosity of the animal — traits uncommon among adult pandas. The researchers explain that Lou A Bao's spontaneous activity denotes a strong cognitive vivacity and a playful temperament, qualities that make him one of the most ethologically interesting individuals among the Qinling pandas.
The "Wrench Ear": The Argument with Qi Zai
One of the most recognizable traits of Lou A Bao is his right ear shaped like a “V”, fruit of a quarrel with the famous panda Qi Zai (七仔), known worldwide as the only brown and white panda in existence. According to the keepers' testimonies, Lou A Bao had repeatedly teased Qi Zai in a playful manner, until he received a bite on the ear during a tense moment. The wound, far from ruining his appearance, became a distinctive brand which increased its appeal in the public eye. Many visitors recognize it precisely thanks to that V-shaped ear, which today symbolizes resilience and character.
A True Friendship: Lou A Bao and Qi Zai
Despite the "bite" incident, the two pandas maintain a surprisingly close bond. Caretakers reported that, during periods of separation, both they showed signs of restlessness and nostalgia. Qi Zai paced back and forth along the enclosure, while Lou A Bao dug into the ground and looked in the direction of her companion, as if searching for him. These reactions, also documented in viral videos on Chinese social media, moved thousands of users, proving that pandas can develop strong social and emotional bonds, even outside the mother-cub relationship. The friendship between Lou A Bao and Qi Zai represents this way a rare example of animal empathy observable up close.
Lou A Bao's Journey: From Taibai to Chengdu and Back
After her rescue in 2008, Lou A Bao has experienced several transfers to major Chinese conservation centers:
- 2008: transfer from the site of discovery to the Shaanxi Rare Wildlife Research Center.
- 2013: I arrive at the Qinling Giant Panda Research Center, where he has become a key figure for visitors.
- 2017: stay at the Giant Panda Breeding and Research Center in Chengdu, Sichuan, for study and behavioral observation programs.
- March 2023: return to the Qinling Center, returning to its original habitat, where it continues to live today under the supervision of experts.
Each step of her journey has contributed to improving scientific knowledge about giant panda behavior and its ability to adapt to environmental and social changes. In any case, Lou A Bao perfectly embodies the playful, sometimes unpredictable spirit that makes giant pandas so special. one of the most loved species in the world. For those who love observing pandas in all their expressions, Lou A Bao represents a little ambassador of the more human side of nature.