Pandas are one of the most adorable types of animals, especially baby pandas. They are just so cuddly and lovable. However, our favorite part is watching them pass through their various stages of development.
One of the most incredible moments is when a baby panda walks for the first time.
The Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding caught the moment on camera recently when Zhen Xi, one of their newborns, finally picked herself up on her tiny wobbly legs and took her first steps across the panda park. It’s such a heartwarming clip, and if you are an animal lover, it’s something that you just have to check out for yourself.
Zookeeper Nanny Mei works really well with little Xixi — that’s the panda cub’s nickname that she always responds to.
This time though, it takes Nanny a few minutes to get the cub’s attention.
“Come here sweetie, come here. Why are you not responding? Did you eat a lot for lunch?” asks Nanny.
It’s obvious that Xixi is pretty content relaxing among the grass. However, if she wants to grow stronger, it is important that she keeps trying to walk.
Most baby pandas gain the ability to start hobbling around at about three months after birth.
At this age, they can walk as far as three feet at a time, but it normally results in them stumbling a little bit. Occasionally, the babies will even tumble over. Judging by how Xixi responds to Nanny, we would say this is a good estimate of her age at the time the video was taken.
Soon, Nanny goes over to Xixi to give her a pat on the head and some encouragement.
Nanny notices that the panda must have been playing around in the dirt for a while alone.
“Oh, where did you get this lot of spider web all over your head? Xixi girl, where are your sisters and brothers? Did they ditch you and play among themselves?” asks Nanny.
Xixi really likes the head petting and starts to become more alert.
“Come on let’s go for a little walk. What? Are you upset about that? Don’t be sweetie, let’s do a little walking will you Xixi girl?” says Nanny.
Finally, Xixi begins to shuffle across the ground.
It’s as simple as putting one foot in front of another, but for Xixi, it’s a big challenge. She has very limited experience moving on her own and has to rely on instinct. Little by little, she makes her way towards Nanny and it brings a huge smile to the zookeeper’s face.
“Good girl you did it! Come on keep walking. Come here,” encourages Nanny.
Nanny is extremely proud of Xixi’s efforts, so she decides to reward her with a good massage.
Xixi rolls over on her stomach and gets a lovely belly rub. It looks like she really enjoys it. Did you know pandas are even ticklish, just like humans?
At one point, Nanny even grabs Xixi and picks her up in the air to help her stretch out her legs.
It doesn’t take too much effort to assist the panda cub. At three months old, pandas only weigh around 11 to 13 pounds. Although, their fluffy fur makes them look bigger than they really are.
Ultimately, after a few short minutes, it’s time for Xixi to take a break. That’s enough exercise for one day! She is worn out from all of that walking and tomorrow she can try again.
It’s a learning process for the little cub. However, soon Xixi will get the hang of it. By around four months old, most pandas are even able to run a little bit.
Watch the adorable video of baby panda Xixi taking her first steps below.
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