The birth of Xiao Qi Ji a year ago was one of the few joyous moments for D.C. during the pandemic. His mother, Mei Xiang, was at such an advanced age that it was considered a miracle that she gave birth, so her cub was fittingly given a name that means “little miracle.”
It’s Mei Xiang’s fourth surviving cub, and she’s doing an excellent job of taking care of him.
Xiao Qi Ji loves to practice climbing:
He spends a lot of time looking incredibly cute:
His birthday is tomorrow, and the Zoo will be giving him a special cake. They’re going to give it to him before the Zoo opens, so if you want to watch it, tune into the Panda Cam at 7:30 tomorrow morning.
Last month, he helped his mother eat her birthday cake, so we know he’ll enjoy having his own.
Happy birthday, Xiao Qi Ji!