Little Bear vs. Big Bamboo. Xiao Qi Ji has Lunch.

Posted By : The Animal Facts Editorial Team

Date: January 31, 2021 9:35 pm

Xiao Qi Ji the giant panda has his first taste of bamboo

Photo Credit: Smithsonian’s National Zoo

It’s been a big week for your favorite little bear, Xiao Qi Ji the giant panda cub from the Smithsonian’s National Zoo in Washington DC, USA. The highlight this week was Xiao Qi Ji enjoying his first taste of bamboo.

Before he had his first taste of bamboo Xiao Qi Ji appeared in his first-ever virtual encounter on Wednesday January 27th. The event allowed guests to connect with the adorable ambassador as the zoo remains closed.

Xiao Qi Ji the giant panda plays with a ball

Photo Credit: Smithsonian’s National Zoo

During the livestream we got a look at one of Xiao Qi Ji’s favorite new toys. This is a bright green ball with a small handle. Its made of soft material meaning it is perfect for him to chew and sink his claws in to. It is also scented like green apple so he can enjoy the smells.

Viewers were treated to a friendly game of tug-of-war between Xiao Qi Ji and his keeper Marty Dearie. The little cub is remarkably strong and keepers keep a close eye on his toys to ensure they do not become unsafe for him to play with.

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At this week’s weigh-in keepers recorded that the 5-month-old cub is now weighing in at 10kg (22lbs) which is an increase of 0.9kg (2lbs) from last week.

A video of Xiao Qi Ji the giant panda enjoying his first taste of bamboo

Video Credit: Smithsonian’s National Zoo

To finish up his busy week Xiao Qi Ji was able to enjoy his first taste of bamboo. He tried out some of his mother Mei Xiang’s leftover leaves. This follows him trying cooked sweet potato for the first time last week.

He has also been improving his walking and climbing skills over recent weeks. With these improvements he has been exploring more of his habitat. Recently he walked out of the den and through both of his indoor habitats across to the opposite den. He then sat down at the same window where mom, Mei Xiang is often fed.