Zoo Atlanta's off-exhibit yard
Use of the off-exhibit habitat is now in full swing! Lun Lun had a chance to spend the day in the off-exhibit yard on Saturday, and keepers told me she had a great time running, playing, and eating the bamboo that naturally grows in the yard. On Sunday, the twins got their opportunity to experience this habitat for the very first time. Both girls were very cautious while shifting through the tunnel that leads from Habitat 2 to Habitat 3. It was really interesting to watch how each panda explored her new surroundings. Mei Huan took off and made a quick lap around the yard before she settled in at a small stand of Arrow bamboo (Pseudosasa japonica). I was amazed to see Mei Huan’s natural instincts kick in as she easily plucked her chosen stalks of bamboo from the ground to eat. Mei Lun, on the other hand, hung out with the keepers near the shift door for a few minutes before venturing off to explore. She even had her first Idgie sighting since one side of the habitat is across the path from the red panda exhibit. Mei Lun seemed intrigued but moved on quickly. Idgie wasn’t as thrilled with her new neighbors and gave Mei Lun the stink eye before heading back into her tree. The girls spent most of the morning exploring and eating, and although they had access to Habitat 2, they didn’t venture back over until it was time for their mid-afternoon feeding. They really seemed to enjoy their time out in Habitat 3!
Jennifer A.
Keeper II, Mammals
