- Cautiously positive vibes at the zoo: Panda cubs are thriving
The recently born twin pandas at Berlin Zoo are thriving. Due to their mother's rich milk diet, they've managed to surpass their birthweight and add a bit extra, according to a representative. "The older one tips the scales at 180 grams, while the younger one weighs 145 grams," the rep shared.
Doting Mother Meng Meng
Meng Meng is providing tender care to her youngsters: "Every hour, these two bundles of joy alternate between feeding and snuggling with their caring mother bear." A collaborative team of German and Chinese panda experts is also assisting the family.
Elevated mortality risk in the initial weeks
The weight gain is instilling a hopeful outlook, as the initial period is a critical one. "The first month, particularly the first two weeks, carries an elevated mortality rate for cubs, approximately 25% higher than other stages," explains biologist and panda specialist Florian Sicks.
Newborn pandas lack a functioning immune system and are highly susceptible in their first days. At birth, they weighed 169 and 136 grams. Like other mammals, panda cubs initially lose weight post-delivery.
Born around 14 cm long
Last Thursday, Meng Meng delivered the two mini pandas, measuring roughly 14 cm. This is the second time pandas have been born in Germany. Like their parents, these cute critters hail from China, being lent out as part of 'panda diplomacy'.
Meng Meng's care extends beyond the collaboration of experts, as she also provides other unique methods of nourishment. "She often licks the fur of her cubs to stimulate their digestive systems, a behavior not commonly seen in other pandas," the panda expert observed.
To ensure the survival of the twin pandas, it's crucial to address and mitigate potential risks in their early days. "Proper monitoring of their health, especially in terms of other diseases or complications, becomes particularly important during this vulnerable phase," Sicks emphasizes.
