Ueno Zoo currently houses three Giant Panda, and we will proceed with preparations to quickly create an environment conducive to mating if any signs of estrus are observed in the future.
Therefore, we would like to inform you about our response during the breeding season.
Leelee (male)
Shinshin (female)
Target animals Giant Panda Ri Ri (male), born August 16, 2005 at Wo Long Conservation Center. Shin Shin (female) was born on July 3, 2005, at the Wolong Conservation Center. Xiang Xiang (female) was born on June 12, 2017 Ueno Zoo
About breeding Giant Panda typically breed once a year, from February to May. During this period, the female's chances of becoming pregnant are only high for a few days. Our aim is natural breeding, and we plan to determine the optimal mating period for females and then house them together for mating.
Breeding season response We will take the following measures while observing the behavior of Shin Shin during the breeding season.
① Regarding the implementation of cohabitation For mating purposes, we will keep Ri Ri (male) and Shin Shin (female) together for several days.
② About the exhibition To create a calm environment where pandas can focus on breeding, we will be restricting access to the area around the panda enclosure. This means: The exhibition of all Giant Panda, including Xiang Xiang, has been canceled. It will be. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.
③ UenoPandalive.jp Regarding the distribution of live video by [company name] Due to their cohabitation, live video streaming from the cameras in Ri Ri and Shin Shin's enclosure and indoors has been suspended. I will. Please note that the cameras in outdoor enclosure D and room 5, where Xiang Xiang is on display, will continue to broadcast live. Additionally, videos of Xiang Xiang will be shown on large screens throughout the park.
*Due to switching to video equipment in the event of exhibition cancellation, recorded footage may be streamed. *Please note that to avoid confusion, we may temporarily suspend broadcasts during peak hours.
Location of live camera footage provided by UenoPandalive.jp (During the period when Giant Panda exhibit is closed, only cameras ① and ② will continue to stream.)
Notice about the exhibition If Shin Shin's estrus intensifies, we will announce to the press that the exhibit will be suspended. The exhibition will be closed for the entire day after the press release. Please check the website for information regarding the exhibition status after that date. Ueno Zoo Official Twitter Information will be posted at all entrances and exits of the nursery. Please check the information before visiting the park.
Current situation Since October 2018, Ri Ri has been exhibiting behaviors commonly seen during the breeding season, such as urinating while standing on his head and marking his territory more frequently when passing through Shin Shin's enclosure or in the enclosure, and climbing trees to mark his territory at high positions. Currently, Shinshin has not shown any signs of estrus, such as vocalizing, cooling parts of her body, or significant changes in urinary hormone levels.
[Reference] Progress in 2017
Estrus
Around December 8, 2016, the male (Li Li) began exhibiting behaviors typical of the breeding season. January 16, 2017: Pre-installation of a privacy screen (fence) on the outside of the outdoor viewing walkway. Around February 15th, the female (Shinshin) also begins to show signs of estrus. February 22nd Exhibition canceled February 27th: Cohabitation commenced, mating behavior confirmed. February 28th: The female's estrus is subsiding. Press release on March 1st announces reopening of the exhibition. March 2nd: Exhibition reopens
After mating
Around May 16th, changes begin to be observed in Shin Shin, such as a decrease in her food intake and an increase in her resting time. Around May 20th, changes in hormone metabolites in the urine may be observed. May 25th: Shin Shin's exhibit will be closed in preparation for giving birth. June 12th: Childbirth
