Weekly Cubdate: Xiao Qi Ji the Panda is Teething

Posted By : The Animal Facts Editorial Team

Date: December 20, 2020 1:20 am

Xiao Qi Ji the giant panda cub during a health check

Photo Credit: Smithsonian’s National Zoo

This week Xiao Qi Ji the giant panda cub is teething. During his weekly check-up keepers noted that he now has 4 canines, some incisors and a few other teeth just starting to erupt.

He has also shown off his sassy side this week. While he rested on the floor his mom, Mei Xiang worked to rearrange her nest and played with bamboo. After a few minutes the cub let out a loud and feisty bark.

Xiao Qi Ji the giant panda cub during a health check

Photo Credit: Smithsonian’s National Zoo

Following this Mei Xiang did a small jump and looked slightly startled. It seems that some of the noise from her actions had disturbed his sleep. Keepers typically hear this noise when they enter his den to remove bamboo leaves brought in by Mei Xiang and some of the leaves rustle.

Much like his three siblings before him Xiao Qi Ji makes his displeasure at the sound well known.

Xiao Qi Ji the giant panda cub during a health check

Photo Credit: Smithsonian’s National Zoo

Later in the week the giant pandas went outside and enjoyed the first wintery weather of the season. Both father Tian Tian and mother Mei Xiang spent some time in the snow but neither seemed interested in playing.

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When there is enough snow keepers are planning to bring some inside so Xiao Qi Ji can play in it.

During this time keepers performed their weekly check on Xiao Qi Ji who had increased his weight to 6.6kg (14.5lbs).

Xiao Qi Ji the giant panda cub celebrting halloween earlier in the year

Photo Credit: Smithsonian’s National Zoo

Learn more about giant pandas here – Giant Panda Fact File | The Animal Facts

Learn more about the Smithsonian’s National Zoo on their website – Smithsonian’s National Zoo