Ling Ling

Basic Profile

Ling Ling (Chinese: 灵灵), studbook number 424, was a male giant panda born on August 25, 1995 at Chongqing Zoo. His father was Chuan Chuan (川川) and his mother was Xin Xing (新星, studbook 394) — the legendary Chongqing Zoo matriarch who lived to 38 with over 150 descendants. His siblings include Chuan Xing (川星), Cong Cong (聪聪), Le Le (乐乐, the Memphis panda), Shu Qing (蜀庆), and Xiao Xiao (小小).

Life Journey

Ling Ling lived at Chongqing Zoo from birth until December 25, 2002, when he was transferred to the CCRCGP Hetaoping Wild Training Base (核桃坪野化培训基地) to participate in natural mating research for the captive breeding program.

On July 21, 2008, he was moved to the Ya’an Bifengxia Base.

On September 26, 2012, he returned to Chongqing Zoo, where he spent his final years.

Breeding Legacy

Ling Ling was a prolific sire with strong natural mating ability. His offspring include:

• Tuan Tuan (团团, studbook 588) — with Hua Mei (487), born 2004, gifted to Taiwan
• Mang Zai (莽仔, studbook 829) — with Ya Lao Er, born 2011, Chongqing Zoo
• Er Shun (二顺) — with Ya Lao Er, born 2007
• Hao Qi (好奇) — with Ya Lao Er, born 2013
• Liang Yue (良月) — with Ya Lao Er, born 2016
• And other offspring at CCRCGP and Chongqing Zoo

Death

Due to old age, Ling Ling’s health declined from 2019 onward — his teeth were worn and he had reduced appetite. In July 2020, he showed poor spirit and appetite; blood tests revealed abnormal liver function and abdominal fluid accumulation. Despite treatment, his condition worsened.

On September 2, 2020 at 10:15 AM, Ling Ling died from cirrhosis-induced multiple organ failure. Necropsy confirmed liver enlargement, hardening, and massive abdominal fluid retention.