birth

Xiao Qi Ji, "Little Miracle," Born at National Zoo

A little miracle arrived today! Xiao Qi Ji was born at the National Zoo. His name means 'Little Miracle' and he is Mei Xiang's fourth cub! 🐼🎉

Source: Smithsonian's National Zoo
Location: Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute
A historic birth occurred at the Smithsonian's National Zoo as Mei Xiang, at 22 years old, gave birth to a male cub on August 21, 2020. The birth was particularly significant given Mei Xiang's age, making her one of the oldest giant pandas to give birth in the United States. Zoo staff had been monitoring Mei Xiang closely since she showed signs of pregnancy earlier in the summer. The cub, later named Xiao Qi Ji (meaning "Little Miracle"), was born healthy and weighed approximately 4.8 ounces (136 grams) at birth. His arrival brought joy during a challenging global period and was celebrated by millions of viewers worldwide via the zoo's Panda Cam. The name Xiao Qi Ji was chosen through a public voting process that attracted more than 135,000 votes. The name reflects the extraordinary circumstances of his birth and the hope he represents for giant panda conservation. The cub's birth contributes valuable data to scientific understanding of panda reproduction, particularly regarding successful pregnancies in older females. Xiao Qi Ji's development will be closely monitored by zoo veterinarians and researchers as he grows and develops under Mei Xiang's care. His birth represents another success for the National Zoo's panda program and the international cooperation essential for giant panda conservation.

Photos

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Photo 1 from Smithsonian's National Zoo
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Photo 2 from Smithsonian's National Zoo

Update Details

  • Date: Aug 21, 2020
  • Type: birth
  • Source: Smithsonian's National Zoo
  • Featured Update

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Related Location

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Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute

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