Cuddly cubs are hope for future of giant panda

cctv.com 03-18-2004 11:12

During the latest shoot in Sichuan, our "Chopsticks" team paid a visit to Chengdu's Giant Panda Breeding Research Base. Notorious for their lack of libido, the shy animals don't breed well, especially in captivity.

Last year, however, an impressive 16 giant pandas were born in captivity in China, bringing the total number of giant pandas in captivity to 160 worldwide. And our "Chopsticks" girl and her cameraman were granted the very rare privilege of getting up close and personal with three of the cute cubs.

The three cheeky cubs are just six months old, but they already weigh about 10 kilos and have thick oily fur, and sharp little teeth and claws. Difficult to imagine that at birth, they were hairless and could fit in the palm of the hand!

Curious and naughty, the cubs make cute little chirping noises as they play - proof that they're enjoying the rough games designed to help improve their coordination and strength.

Editor:Chen Jie  Source:CCTV.com