Pandas are often regarded as China’s unofficial national symbol due to their unique nature and their limited habitat in the country’s southwest, which is under threat from urban development. The Chinese government actively engages in breeding pandas as part of a nationwide conservation effort, and also loans these beloved creatures to zoos worldwide as part of a soft-power diplomacy initiative.
This festive season, two five-year-old pandas named An An and Ke Ke marked their first Christmas celebration early at a park in Hong Kong. The adorable pair delighted both visitors and photographers as they enjoyed specially crafted treats.
During a special event before the park opened to the public, An An, the male panda, received an ice slab that featured the message “Merry Christmas,” crafted from sweet potatoes and carrots. Meanwhile, his female counterpart, Ke Ke, was treated to a snowman made with slices of carrots and apples, showcasing their playful personalities.
These two pandas were sent to Hong Kong by China in late September, part of an effort to enhance tourism in the bustling city. After a two-month quarantine period, they made their official debut at the Ocean Park theme park and joined four other pandas, much to the excitement of their visitors.
An An is characterized as intelligent and playful, while Ke Ke is recognized for her gentle nature and impressive climbing abilities. Ocean Park has been home to pandas since 1999, starting with the first pair, An An and Jia Jia, who arrived shortly after Hong Kong’s return to Chinese sovereignty.
These endearing creatures continue to play a significant role in conservation efforts and act as ambassadors for their species, drawing visitors from around the world to witness their charm and habitat.
