Yes, Xi Lan is really a male
Xi Lan @ Zoo Atlanta
Zoo Atlanta Carnivore Keeper Heather wrote an update on Xi Lan:
In case anyone continues to worry that Xi Lan may not be a male – rest assured! His testicles are now visible to the naked eye. During his most recent physical, we were able to palpate them, but they were not visible externally. It has just been in the last day or so that we have been able to see them. This is normal for giant panda males and one of the reasons it can be challenging to correctly identify their sex when they are young. So, even though Xi Lan is not a baby anymore, he still has hit another milestone in his development.
Further news about Xi Lan is that he received a diagnostic exam this week because he has been lethargic, not eating well, and has had some nasal discharge. The exam revealed that his nasal cavity is irritated. We don’t know what caused this, but he is receiving medication and has responded well to the treatment. He’s eating well now and acting more like his fun-loving usual self.
Source: Zoo Atlanta
