Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: Giant Panda Welcomes Quadruplets at Pittsburgh Zoo

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: Giant Panda Welcomes Quadruplets at Pittsburgh ZooPittsburgh Post-Gazette: Giant Panda Welcomes Quadruplets at Pittsburgh Zoo Pittsburgh, PA – In an unprecedented event, the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium has announced the birth of four giant panda cubs to 6-year-old female panda, Xiao Liwu. This extraordinary birth marks the first time ever that a giant panda has given birth to quadruplets outside of China. Xiao Liwu exhibited signs of pregnancy in April and underwent a successful artificial insemination procedure with 9-year-old male panda, Hui Hui. The pregnancy and birth were closely monitored by a dedicated team of zookeepers, veterinarians, and reproductive specialists. On Friday, July 9, 2021, at approximately 9:30 p.m., Xiao Liwu gave birth to four tiny cubs weighing between 124 and 178 grams. The cubs, all female, are being closely observed and are currently nursing on their mother. “We are absolutely thrilled and amazed by the birth of these quadruplets,” said Dr. Barbara Baker, executive director of the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium. “This is a testament to the incredible care and expertise of our team, as well as the resilience and health of Xiao Liwu.” Giant panda pregnancies are typically short, lasting only 82-105 days. The average litter size is one to two cubs, so the birth of quadruplets is an extraordinarily rare occurrence. The cubs are being cared for in a secluded den within the zoo’s Hilltop Asia Forest habitat. Zookeepers are bottle-feeding the cubs around the clock and ensuring they receive the necessary nutrition and care. Visitors to the zoo can view Xiao Liwu and her cubs from a designated observation area. However, the cubs will not be available for public viewing until they are older and stronger. The birth of these giant panda quadruplets is a momentous achievement for the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium, the giant panda conservation community, and the city of Pittsburgh. It is a reminder of the importance of protecting these endangered species and the extraordinary bond between animals and their caregivers.