12 giant panda cubs make public debut in SW China's Chengdu ahead of Chinese New Year

Photo shows giant panda cubs at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding in Chengdu, capital of southwest China's Sichuan Province. (Photo/Sichuan Daily)

12 giant panda cubs made their first collective public appearance in Chengdu, capital of southwest China's Sichuan Province, on Feb. 11, delighting visitors with playful antics and heart-melting charm.

The cubs, all born between May and July 2025, were presented to the public at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding in Chengdu.

The venue was adorned with a wide variety of festive decorations, including red lanterns, Chinese knots, and Chinese zodiac-themed paper cuttings, creating a festive atmosphere.

Keepers carefully carry giant panda cubs to a specially arranged venue for their first public appearance at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding in Chengdu, capital of southwest China's Sichuan Province. (Photo/Sichuan Daily)

Keepers also arranged toys and enrichment facilities to ensure the cubs' comfort and safety during their first public showcase.

Weighing between 10 and 15 kilograms, the cubs have passed their critical early growth stage and are reported to be in stable, healthy condition.

With glossy fur and increasingly steady steps, they appeared energetic and curious as they explored their specially prepared outdoor playground.

After keepers carefully carried the cubs into the activity area at around 9 a.m., some peered around inquisitively, others tried to clamber over their companions, while a few stayed close to their keepers. The scene drew enthusiastic reactions from visitors and photographers alike.

"I've been photographing giant pandas for more than 30 years, and I came specifically to capture these newborn cubs today," said veteran giant panda photographer Zhou Mengqi. "I can never get bored of capturing them. I just can't get enough of them."

Giant panda cubs are presented to the public at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding in Chengdu, capital of southwest China's Sichuan Province. (Photo/Sichuan Daily)

A giant panda cub is carried by its keeper to pose for photos at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding in Chengdu, capital of southwest China's Sichuan Province. (Photo/Sichuan Daily)

Giant panda cubs climb trees at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding in Chengdu, capital of southwest China's Sichuan Province. (Photo/Sichuan Daily)