We’ve been in China for about a month now. How has time flown by so quickly yet at the same time, it feels as if we’ve been here for ages? I would like to believe that we’ve gotten the hang of things. The first couple of weeks were a little overwhelming, as we had to intensively learn the ropes of a panda researcher as well as adjust to a completely different culture and country, but things are running smoothly now!

I wanted to write an update on Zhen Zhen because she really sticks out to me out of all the pandas. I first noticed her because she was constantly climbing up the tree in her enclosure. What a sight to see a panda high up in a tree! They are really adapted to be great climbers and watching her go up the tree so quickly always amazes me.

Zhen Zhen climbing a tree in her enclosure

Zhen Zhen, like myself, was born in San Diego. She also successfully gave birth to a set a twins back in August 2015. Today, we believe her cubs are located at the panda kindergarten in Gengda. We wish they were still here at Bifengxia!

Zhen Zhen – she’s just such a beautiful bear!

When we’re not scoring stereotypical behavior, collecting and preparing fecal samples, or analyzing lead levels in the pandas’ blood, we get free time to explore our city of Ya’an. We’ve recently conquered Mount Jinfeng, a 1,000 step hike up a mountain to a Buddhist temple, and Mengding Mountain, a giant tea center and producer.

Overall, we are having an unforgettable experience. This is truly a dream job.

-Gigi