Hong Kong’s beloved giant pandas, Le Le and Ying Ying, are marking their 20th birthdays this month, equivalent to 60 to 80 years in human age. To celebrate, Ocean Park’s animal care team has partnered with Häagen-Dazs to create two unique, colorful ice cakes as birthday gifts for the panda parents. Additionally, their twin cubs, Jia Jia (the elder sister) and De De (the younger brother), will turn one on August 15, with a series of panda-themed activities and surprises planned throughout the month across Hong Kong.
The specially designed ice cakes for Le Le and Ying Ying are vibrant and tailored to their tastes. Le Le’s cake features a pink “20” design, while Ying Ying’s is adorned with an orange “20.” Made with their favorite ingredients—purple sweet potato, carrots, apples, and fresh bamboo leaves—the cakes are topped with giant bamboo shoots symbolizing vitality, prosperity, and righteousness. According to Ocean Park, both pandas were delighted with their treats, showing great enthusiasm for the icy creations.
On Le Le’s birthday today, August 8, and Ying Ying’s birthday on August 16, park visitors can join the celebrations by signing birthday cards and offering their heartfelt wishes. Guests may also have the chance to witness Le Le and Ying Ying enjoying their birthday feasts and engaging with enrichment items, showcasing their playful and endearing behaviors. The park emphasized that the longevity and vitality of Ying Ying and Le Le are a testament to the team’s dedicated care and exceptional veterinary expertise.
According to research, a panda’s age of one year is equivalent to three to four human years, making 20-year-old pandas comparable to humans in their 60s to 80s, entering their senior years. While wild pandas typically live 18 to 20 years, those in captivity can reach 25 to 30 years with proper care.
In addition to the parental celebrations, the twin cubs Jia Jia and De De will mark their first birthday on August 15. Ocean Park has planned a month-long series of panda-themed experiences, extending from the park to various locations across Hong Kong, inviting everyone to join in the festive spirit.
Visitors on the pandas’ birthday days are encouraged to participate in the celebrations, sign birthday cards, and catch a glimpse of these cherished animals savoring their special treats, making for a memorable experience at Ocean Park.