Giant Panda Menglan Charms Internet with Adorable Encounter with Miniature Plush Toy
In a recent viral story from Beijing Zoo, there has been a heartwarming encounter between the famous giant panda, 8-year-old Menglan, and a 5-month-old plush toy replica of herself. The moment was captured on video and shared on Weibo, China's popular social media platform, garnering a lot of attention from netizens.
14 February 2024
Upon seeing the miniature version of herself, Menglan appeared to be both embarrassed and delighted as she lowered her head, seemingly unable to bear the cuteness. The video, shared by the Agricultural Channel's Weibo account, quickly went viral, with many users expressing their love and amusement for the scene.
Other users commented on the plush toy's resemblance to Menglan, remarking on its adorable charm. A post from the Beichao Shop read, "What a cute little panda! I can't help but feel both affectionate and sympathetic towards the little one."
Some users even joked about the possibility of adopting the plush Menglan themselves, despite the legal restrictions surrounding giant panda ownership. One Weibo user humorously stated, "I want to take the little panda home and keep it for a couple of days! But alas, one cannot simply own a giant panda in real life."
Many commented on the giant panda's popularity, with one user mentioning that Menglan was once again making headlines. "Menglan is so popular; she's trending again! I wonder if the zoo has returned the toy yet, little fatty, I can't help but feel love and concern when I see this."
The giant panda's celebrity status continues to shine brightly, as evident from another Weibo user's excitement about visiting the zoo. "I'm so excited to see Menglan again! Remember to stay healthy and happy as you grow up, little one!"
In addition to the Menglan-themed excitement, another series of posts related to the upcoming Spring Festival, or Chinese New Year, which falls on January 22nd this year, the Year of the Tiger. Weibo users shared beautiful photographs of the Jinding Mountain, or Golden Mountain, an iconic site in Chengdu, Sichuan province. The photographs depicted the mountain bathed in the warm glow of sunset, symbolizing a prosperous Year of the Tiger ahead.
Contributing to the festive atmosphere, photographer Fan Xiaohu captured stunning images of the Jinding Mountain covered in snow, with its snow-capped peaks shimmering under the clear blue sky. Fan's photographs were shared by the China National Geographic Channel's Weibo account, inspiring a sense of hope and good fortune for the year to come.
In a lighter moment, Weibo users also shared a video of Menglan, seemingly donning a "bottom cushion" for her chair, which had been set up to keep her from feeling the heat of a warm summer day or the chill of a frigid winter. The humorous post, shared by the Zhang Store's Weibo account, drew laughter from netizens and demonstrated the affection and care people have for one of China's most beloved creatures.
Overall, these heartwarming encounters and scenes from the lives of the giant pandas at the Beijing Zoo continue to captivate and delight the hearts of millions of Weibo users across China. As the country celebrates the upcoming Spring Festival, the news and images of these adorable creatures serve as a reminder that sometimes, it's the simple moments and endearing stories that truly bring joy to our lives.