Mexico's oldest giant panda Xin Xin turns 36

Chapultepec Zoo buzzed with excitement as it celebrated the 36th birthday of Xin Xin, Mexico's beloved giant panda. This milestone makes her one of the longest-living pandas under professional care worldwide. Born on July 1, 1990, Xin Xin is the offspring of the iconic Tohuí and Chia Chia, continuing a legacy of the giant panda breeding program in Mexico.

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Many people knew her as children and today they return with their children or grandchildren to share the excitement of meeting her. Few animals manage to touch so many hearts and become a symbol of hope, respect for nature, and conservation.

The celebration also marked the 103rd anniversary of the Chapultepec Wildlife Conservation Center. Officials from the Secretariat of Environment (Sedema) emphasized Xin Xin's role as a symbol of wildlife conservation and the fruitful cooperation between Mexico and China. Her presence is a testament to decades of scientific effort and specialized care.

"Few animals manage to touch so many hearts and become a symbol of hope, respect for nature, and conservation," Sedema officials noted, highlighting how generations have grown up with Xin Xin. Her longevity is presented as a direct reflection of the zoo staff's commitment to animal welfare and the specialized attention she has received throughout her life.

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We are the only country, besides China, that can enjoy a giant panda without having to travel to another continent. It also reflects the good relationship between Mexico and China.

During the festivities, dozens of visitors sang "Las Mañanitas" to Xin Xin, explored an exhibition of illustrations inspired by her, and watched as she enjoyed a special cake and bamboo. Attendees like Jade expressed pride in Mexico being one of the few countries outside China to host a giant panda, viewing it as a privilege and a symbol of strong bilateral relations. The panda's long life, they added, underscores the importance of responsible animal care and conservation efforts for endangered species.

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The message is that we must greatly respect nature. We know the planet faces many problems and we must become aware of our actions to preserve species like the giant panda.