Hong Kong Welcomes New Giant Pandas with Naming Contest
Hongkongers are eagerly anticipating the arrival of a new pair of giant pandas gifted by the Chinese government, set to arrive in the city on Thursday ahead of China’s National Day next week. These pandas will join the existing panda population in Hong Kong, including beloved residents Ying Ying and Le Le, as well as their new twin cubs.
The Culture, Sports, and Tourism Bureau in Hong Kong will be organizing a naming contest in October for the new giant pandas. Chief Executive John Lee announced at a press briefing that the competition aims to select two “meaningful” names that will highlight the characteristics of the adorable animals. In addition to the naming contest, there will also be a drawing competition to encourage Hongkongers to showcase their artistic skills in capturing the cuteness of the giant pandas.
Upon their arrival, the five-year-old giant pandas will undergo a 30-day quarantine at Ocean Park Hong Kong, followed by an additional period for adjustment to their new environment. Experts will evaluate the pandas before determining the suitable time for their public debut. Chief Executive John Lee expressed hope for a grand launch ceremony at the theme park by mid-December to introduce the giant pandas to the public.
The male giant panda, weighing approximately 130 kilograms, is described as physically strong, agile in movement, and smart and active. On the other hand, the female giant panda, weighing around 100 kg, is known for being good at climbing, gentle, sweet, and lovable. To accommodate their needs, Ocean Park has renovated the giant pandas’ living space by adding climbing structures and plants, with further upgrades planned to enhance monitoring systems.
In August, Hong Kong celebrated the birth of its first-ever giant panda twins born to Ying Ying at Ocean Park. The male and female cubs are currently undergoing rapid growth, with their fur becoming denser and their distinctive black-and-white coloration becoming more pronounced. Chief Executive John Lee estimated that the twin cubs may be ready to meet the public early next year, pending expert advice. Another naming contest will be organized by the government once the cubs develop more distinct features.
Giant pandas are considered China’s national treasure and have been used as diplomatic gifts for many years. However, animal welfare organizations like People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) have raised concerns about the practice of gifting pandas, especially after the death of a 24-year-old male giant panda named Le Le at Memphis Zoo in the US earlier this year. Despite these challenges, the gift of giant pandas from China represents a “collective memory” for generations of Hongkongers, as stated by Chief Executive John Lee.
With fewer than 1,900 giant pandas remaining in the wild, conservation efforts are crucial for the survival of the species. Ocean Park in Hong Kong plays a significant role in panda conservation, providing a safe and enriching environment for these endangered animals. Through naming contests and public engagement activities, the park aims to raise awareness about the importance of protecting giant pandas and their habitats.
As Hong Kong eagerly awaits the arrival of the new giant pandas and the upcoming naming contest, the city continues to celebrate its unique connection with these beloved animals. With the support of the community and ongoing conservation efforts, the future looks bright for giant pandas in Hong Kong.