2020-11-07 Howdy from Cubbie, Mei Xiang & Tian Tian

#PandaStory: On cubbie's 78th day, he didn't leave the den during the keeper daytime hours (7am - 3pm). But late last night Mei Xiang had him in room 3's playpen for quite awhile, including a nursing bout. He was sound asleep when she left him there, and later came to take him back to the den. Around 2am she was sleeping right in the den doorway, and bleated before returning to her cub ... usually she'd use that vocalization to let him know she was on the way. Then it's a sweet sleeping scene, as Mei puts her paw on cubbie's belly. Toward morning there was an intense grooming session, with Mei Xiang nibbling at cubbie, and biting him, as well as licks ... not to worry, she knows exactly how hard she can clamp down on him. Right after that he nursed some more which is always joyful to witness with his happy slurping sounds.

And then it's time to see part of Mei Xiang and Tian Tian's early morning routine. (No audio during these scenes). Mei Xiang is on the left, and Tian Tian is in the PIP on the right. The howdy window is how they view each other (and one day Tian will see cubbie). Mei will peek through hers, and Tian through his side, but not at the same time. And if you look closely, you'll see the keeper behind the gate barrier handing them treats and enrichment ... and Tian Tian got a scratch on his head from his keeper!

Note from Doxie: I respectively ask that you do not post comments disparaging the Smithsonian Zoo's treatment of their Giant Pandas or comparisons to other Zoos. Please refrain from posting rude, negative , critical comments as they also will be removed. Thank you for your cooperation in keeping this a place of positivity, celebration and joy!

Video recorded at Smithsonian's National Zoo's Panda Cam website: https://nationalzoo.si.edu/webcams/pa...
#PandaStory #MeiXiang