Xiao Qi Ji the Giant Panda Takes His First Steps

Posted By : The Animal Facts Editorial Team

Date: December 6, 2020 11:47 pm

Xiao Qi Ji the giant panda at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo

Photo Credit: Smithsonian’s National Zoo

Xiao Qi Ji the giant panda from the Smithsonian’s National Zoo in Washington DC, USA has taken his first steps. The 3 month old, 5 day old cub took his first steps on Thanksgiving.

On Thanksgiving Xiao Qi Ji was resting outside his den while mum, Mei Xiang rested inside.

Xiao Qi Ji the giant panda cub at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo

Photo Credit: Smithsonian’s National Zoo

His first steps came after months of practice. He was able to get all four feet under his body and take a few wobbly steps before he toppled over.

Since his first steps he has been working on his skill with regular walking practice. He often makes an attempt in the morning when Mei Xiang takes him from the den to the larger indoor enclosure.

Xiao Qi Ji the giant panda cub at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo

Photo Credit: Smithsonian’s National Zoo

On December 2nd Xiao Qi Ji had his latest check up where keepers were able to take measurements of his body.

— AD —

Things are getting increasingly difficult for keepers as the little cub becomes more wriggly with each passing day. At this check up he would not sit still on the scales so keepers placed him in a tub to obtain an accurate measurement.

The little cub now weighs in at 5.66kg (12.4lbs). His body length measures in at 65cm (25.6in) long.

Xiao Qi Ji the giant panda cub at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo

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