 Lun Lun cradles her first cub, named Mei Lan, born on Sept. 6, 2006. |
Zoo Atlanta Panda Confirmed Pregnant
Posted: 6:21 pm EDT August 28, 2008Updated: 10:24 am EDT August 29, 2008
ATLANTA -- Another baby is expected at Zoo Atlanta!Zoo Atlanta’s Animal Management and Veterinary Teams confirmed 11-year old giant panda, Lun Lun’s pregnancy at approximately 4:00 pm Thursday. “During today’s ultrasound, we confirmed a fully formed fetus with a very strong heart beat,” said Dr. Sam Rivera, Interim Director of Veterinary Services.SLIDESHOW: Zoo Atlanta's Pandas & Other Animals
SLIDESHOW: Mei Lan's Baby Pics
In late July, Lun Lun began demonstrating a sharp decrease in appetite, followed by lethargy, somnolence and withdrawn behavior – all normal and expected patterns for a female giant panda experiencing either pregnancy or pseudopregnancy. The change in Lun Lun’s habits prompted the Animal Management Team to begin 24-hour birth watch on August 9, initiating round the clock observation of Lun Lun’s den.The confirmation of today’s ultrasound is a confirmed indication that birth is eminent, zoo officials said.LIVESTREAM: Zoo Atlanta's Panda Cam (From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST) Lun Lun's first cub named Mei Lan was born on Sept. 6, 2006. Zoo Atlanta is one of only four zoos in the U.S. exhibiting the endangered species.
In late July, Lun Lun began demonstrating a sharp decrease in appetite, followed by lethargy, somnolence and withdrawn behavior – all normal and expected patterns for a female giant panda experiencing either pregnancy or pseudopregnancy. The change in Lun Lun’s habits prompted the Animal Management Team to begin 24-hour birth watch on August 9, initiating round the clock observation of Lun Lun’s den.The confirmation of today’s ultrasound is a confirmed indication that birth is eminent, zoo officials said.
Previous Stories:
- August 12, 2008: Giant Panda Birth Watch Begins At Zoo Atlanta
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