In a significant event for Hong Kong's wildlife conservation efforts, two giant pandas, An An and Ke Ke, arrived in the city on September 26, 2023. The pair, gifted by Beijing, were welcomed with considerable fanfare at Hong Kong International Airport, complete with a red carpet reception and panda-themed toys.
The arrival of An An and Ke Ke has increased Hong Kong's panda population to six, marking the highest number ever in the financial hub. This event highlights the ongoing "panda diplomacy" that China has been practicing since the 1950s, using these beloved animals as goodwill ambassadors.
Giant pandas, known scientifically as Ailuropoda melanoleuca, are native to south central China and have been the country's national animal since 1949. These iconic black and white bears can weigh up to 150 kg as adults and typically live 20-30 years in captivity. Their diet consists almost entirely of bamboo, requiring them to feed for 10-16 hours daily.
The five-year-old pandas will be housed at Ocean Park, a local theme park, where they will remain out of public view until December 2023. This adjustment period will allow them to acclimate to their new habitat, which includes specially planted bamboo leaves from Guangdong province. The enclosure has been meticulously prepared to mimic their natural environment, considering that pandas have poor eyesight but an excellent sense of smell.
John Lee, Hong Kong's leader, announced that the pandas would receive new names through a public contest organized by the government. This initiative aims to engage the community and foster a sense of connection with the new arrivals.
"We are thrilled to welcome An An and Ke Ke to Hong Kong. Their arrival not only strengthens our conservation efforts but also provides a unique opportunity for our visitors to learn about these remarkable creatures."
The addition of An An and Ke Ke comes at an exciting time for Hong Kong's panda community. Recently, Ying Ying, a resident giant panda at Ocean Park, gave birth to twin cubs just before her 19th birthday, making her the oldest panda on record to successfully give birth for the first time. The cubs, currently under intensive care, are expected to make their public debut in early 2024.
This panda population increase has sparked discussions among lawmakers about leveraging the animals to boost tourism and create a "panda economy" through themed promotions and infrastructure. The concept aligns with the historical use of pandas in diplomacy and their potential to attract visitors.
As Hong Kong prepares to showcase its new panda residents, it's worth noting some fascinating facts about these creatures. Pandas possess a "pseudo-thumb" for gripping bamboo and have large molars and strong jaw muscles for crushing their primary food source. Despite their cuddly appearance, they are capable swimmers and adept tree climbers.
The arrival of An An and Ke Ke not only enhances Hong Kong's role in panda conservation but also provides an opportunity for the public to engage with these captivating animals. As the city looks forward to the pandas' public debut, the event serves as a reminder of the importance of wildlife conservation and the unique place giant pandas hold in both Chinese culture and global conservation efforts.