Ya-ya's face is so round that you don't recognise it at first sight
Beijing Zoo Weibo video sparks heated debate over panda care
28 July 2023
A new video from Beijing Zoo's Weibo has reignited a passionate discussion among netizens about the wellbeing of pandas, specifically Yaya, who was brought back to China from Memphis after concerns over her health and living conditions. The video shows Yaya enjoying "dry rice," a term often used in Chinese social media to describe a meal where food is served without sauce or seasonings, sparking heated discussions among netizens about the merits of different feeding methods.
The video also showcases Yaya's apparent weight gain and improved health, as her face appears rounder and teeth look healthier than in previous photos. Netizens have taken notice of this improvement, with many expressing joy at her better condition. Some even likened Yaya to a bear of fat beauty, praising the panda's transformation and encouraging more dry rice for continued progress.
However, not all reactions were positive, as some netizens expressed dissatisfaction with previous feeding methods and raised questions about the quality of care provided by Pretty Country, where Yaya was previously housed. Some users wondered how those who claimed Pretty Country's feeding methods were scientific and healthy could explain Yaya's current state compared to her condition in Memphis.
The video also led to speculation about the potential reunion of Yaya with another panda, Moonglan Mamoru, sparking excitement among some netizens. Others expressed relief at Yaya's improved demeanor and appearance, noting that she looks healthier and more relaxed at home than in Memphis.
Apart from the discussions surrounding Yaya, a separate Weibo video from Tan, featuring his pet Flora who was smeared with talcum powder to appear white for an event, also garnered attention. This led some netizens to express their hope for better care of all national treasures and express appreciation for Yaya's progress towards improved health.
Overall, the Beijing Zoo Weibo video has sparked a lively debate among Chinese social media users about panda care and health, with many celebrating Yaya's improvements and hoping for continued wellbeing for all pandas. The discussion also highlights the importance of proper nutrition and care in maintaining the health and happiness of these national treasures.