VIDEO: GLIMPSE OF THE SMITHSONIAN’S NATIONAL ZOO’S PANDA CUB

2012-09-20 — /travelprnews.com/ — Smithsonian’s National Zoo staff and Panda Cam watchers have gotten several quick glimpses of female giant panda Mei Xiang’s cub since its birth Sept. 16 at 10:46 p.m. In this video from Sept. 17. at about 8:35 p.m. EST, Mei Xiang cradles the newborn and picks it up in her mouth as she shifts position. This is normal behavior; By using her mouth, Mei Xiang can very gently and dexterously position the cub on her body so that she is able to nurse and groom it. The cub actively squirms and vocalizes loudly in response—two good signs that the cub is healthy. Keepers report that Mei Xiang continues to exhibit excellent maternal behaviors. She is prompt to cradle and groom the cub, and there is evidence that it is successfully nursing. The Zoo will continue to diligently monitor both bears over the Panda Cam and minimize disturbances around their den.

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To download images, visit the Smithsonian National Zoo’s Flickr page.