The young male panda Yu Ke, Yu Ai's twin brother, born at the Chongqing Zoo, is conquering the world with his sweetness and natural charm. His story makes him a symbol of family bonding and cultural cooperation.
Panda Yu Ke: information
- Name: Yu Ke (渝可)
- Meaning of the name: The Graceful One of Chongqing
- Type: Male
- Date of birth: July 22, 2022
- Place of birth: Chongqing Zoo
- Pedigree number: 1284
- Birth weight: 132 grams
- Mother: Er Shun (二顺)
- Father: Qing Qing (青青)
- Twin sister: Yu Ai (渝爱)
- Brothers: Jia Pan Pan (加盼盼), Jia Yue Yue (加悦悦)
Who is Yu Ke, Yu Ai's twin brother?: the meaning of the name
Weighing 132 grams at birth and sporting a smile that captivates everyone, Yu Ke grew up surrounded by his mother, Er Shun, and his father, Qing Qing, surrounded by care and attention. From an early age, he displayed a lively nature and a special bond with his twin sister, Yu Ai, with whom he shared moments of great tenderness, such as when he would playfully nibble her feet in the puppy box.
The nickname “little violet”
Nicknamed "little daisy" by his keepers, Yu Ke deeply loves cuddles and the closeness of his caregivers. It's not uncommon to see him running toward his mother or throwing himself into the arms of nanny Li, whom he immediately recognizes. Once picked up, he relaxes, snuggles happily, and gives off a smile that makes him seem truly spoiled. For him, more than treats, attention and affection are what matter, and every encounter becomes a moment of deep tenderness.
Curiosities about Yu Ke
Among his most curious passions is undoubtedly bathing. For Yu Ke, a simple shower is never enough. He eagerly grabs the hose and sprays himself, as if making sure every inch of his fur is perfectly clean. This funny and irresistible habit has won over the online public, so much so that zoo staff often share his veritable "spa sessions" on social media.
Yu Ke and Yu Ai: a couple who became a symbol
In 2023, Chongqing Zoo held a grand contest to name Er Shun's twins. From nearly 600 submissions, the public chose Yu Ke (渝可) and Yu Ai (渝爱), two names that together evoke the idea of a "lovely and graceful" Chongqing. The official naming ceremony attracted considerable attention in China, becoming a symbolic moment of collective affection for the giant panda family.
Children's Day and New Adoption
On June 1, 2023, to mark Children's Day, the zoo hosted a special celebration for the cubs, complete with treats, toys, and fresh fruit, making the day especially joyful. Shortly thereafter, the Midea Group officially adopted Yu Ke and Yu Ai, offering them tangible support and helping to ensure their continued care and conservation efforts.
Ambassador of the “New Silk Road”
On June 14, 2024, Yu Ke and her twin sister Yu Ai were unveiled as official ambassadors of the Belt and Road International Skills Competition, bringing Chongqing's most endearing and symbolic image to the international stage. At just two years old, Yu Ke has become a beloved face online, thanks to her affectionate personality, funny expressions, and the way she effortlessly embodies friendship and cultural exchange between different peoples.
Today, Yu Ke continues to captivate audiences as one of the most followed and beloved panda cubs on the internet. With his sweet temperament, passion for bathing, and irresistible little explorer look, he's now considered a true ambassador for Chongqing and China, demonstrating how protecting nature and fostering dialogue between cultures can speak a common language.