A pair of five-year-old pandas named An An and Ke Ke recently celebrated an early Christmas at Hong Kong’s Ocean Park, delighting visitors with their charm. An An, the male panda, received a special ice treat engraved with “Merry Christmas” made from sweet potato and carrots. Meanwhile, Ke Ke, his female counterpart, enjoyed a snowman-shaped snack decorated with slices of carrot and apple.
These pandas were sent from China to Hong Kong in late September as part of an initiative to boost tourism in the city. After a two-month quarantine period, they finally made their public debut, joining four other pandas at the park. An An is known for being lively and smart, while Ke Ke is recognized for her gentle nature and climbing skills.
Pandas hold a significant place in China’s culture, often seen as the country’s unofficial mascot. They are native to the southwestern region of China and face threats due to habitat loss. In response, the Chinese government actively breeds these creatures to help maintain their population and engages in “panda diplomacy” by loaning them to zoos around the world.
Ocean Park has been home to pandas since 1999, welcoming the first pair, An An and Jia Jia, shortly after Hong Kong’s return to Chinese sovereignty. This tradition continues to capture the hearts of both locals and tourists, emphasizing the bond between wildlife conservation and cultural exchange.
