Ban Ban

Basic Profile

Ban Ban (Chinese: 半半, studbook number 1053) was a female giant panda born on October 4, 2016 at Shanghai Zoo (上海动物园), weighing 113.2 grams at birth. She and her twin brother Yue Yue (月月) were the first panda twins born in East China (华东地区).

Her mother was You You (优优, studbook 474), making her a member of the extensive Ying Ying family (英英家族) — she was the aunt (姨姥姥) of Korea’s famous Fu Bao (福宝).

Naming

On her 200th day, she was officially named “半半” (Ban Ban), meaning “companion/half” — symbolizing her inseparable bond with her twin brother. At the time, she weighed 13.8 kg and measured 53 cm long.

Life Journey

Shanghai Years (2016–2021)

Ban Ban spent her early years at Shanghai Zoo. Her 1st birthday featured a traditional Chinese “抓周” (choice ceremony) where she picked items predicting her future.

Move to Hangzhou (2021)

In March 2021, Ban Ban was transferred to Hangzhou Wildlife World (杭州野生动物世界), where she quickly became the park’s star attraction. She served as a cultural tourism ambassador for the Hangzhou/Fuyang region, appearing in promotional campaigns.

Final Days

In early 2026, Ban Ban developed intestinal issues. Despite medical intervention, she died on February 9, 2026 from intestinal obstruction causing multi-organ failure. Her death was mourned by fans across China.

Personality and Fame

Ban Ban was known for her intelligent, lively personality — she loved swimming, climbing, and “demolishing” enrichment toys. Her keepers described her as always “brave to try new things” (勇于尝试新鲜事物).

She became an internet sensation for her distinctive “贵妃坐” (Imperial Concubine Seat) eating posture — sitting upright while holding bamboo, looking regal and adorable. Fans called her a “food blogger” for her entertaining eating videos. She also loved bamboo shoots and would enthusiastically demolish her enclosure’s enrichment items.

Birthday Celebrations

• 1st Birthday (2017): Traditional “抓周” ceremony, weighed 27 kg
• 6th Birthday (2023): Special “cake” with fruit and bamboo
• 8th Birthday (2024): Large celebration at Hangzhou Wildlife World with hundreds of visitors