Kai Kai

Basic Profile

Kai Kai (Chinese: 开开, studbook number 717), originally named Shu Xiang (蜀祥), is a male giant panda born on August 5, 2008 at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.

His mother is Shu Qing (蜀庆). He has large, straight ears (大直耳) and a dark nose bridge, earning him the nickname “Mickey Mouse” (米老鼠) for his resemblance to the cartoon character.

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Gift to Macau

Selection

In 2009, to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Macau’s return to China, President Hu Jintao announced that the central government would gift a pair of giant pandas to Macau. After a rigorous selection process, Shu Xiang (蜀祥) and female Qi Miao (奇妙, renamed Xin Xin/心心) were chosen.

Naming

Macau held a public naming contest with 5 candidate pairs. “开开” (Kai Kai) won with 44% of the vote — symbolizing joy and good fortune. His partner was named “心心” (Xin Xin) — together forming “开心” (Kai Xin), meaning happiness.

Life in Macau

Kai Kai arrived in Macau on December 19, 2009 and lived at the Macau Giant Panda Pavilion in Seac Pai Van Park. He became a beloved figure, known for his Mickey Mouse-like ears and gentle demeanor.

In 2014, his companion Xin Xin passed away from acute kidney failure, leaving Kai Kai alone. The central government subsequently decided to gift a new pair — Ya Lin (娅林) and Shu Rong (蜀蓉) — who would also inherit the names Kai Kai and Xin Xin.

Return to Chengdu

On November 29, 2015, after nearly 6 years in Macau, Kai Kai returned to the Chengdu Research Base to participate in the National Giant Panda Breeding Program. Macau held a warm farewell ceremony.

He currently resides at the Chengdu Base.