Hong Kong’s giant panda twins celebrate second birthday with bamboo and fanfare

Hong Kong's first locally born giant panda twins, Jia Jia and De De, celebrated their second birthday on Saturday (August 15) with special bamboo treats and enthusiastic cheers from fans at Ocean Park Hong Kong.

Keepers prepared a special bamboo display spelling out "Happy Birthday" for the twins, while visitors gathered to watch the pair enjoy the festive feast. The celebrations also featured an ice birthday cake and drew crowds eager to capture photos and videos of the popular siblings.

The twins were joined by their mother, Ying Ying, who made history in 2024 as the world's oldest first-time giant panda mother at the age of 19. The rare family reunion delighted visitors, as giant panda cubs typically begin living independently from their mothers at around three years old, making scenes of the trio together increasingly special.

Fans said they felt proud watching Hong Kong's home-grown panda stars grow up. Many brought handmade souvenirs and gifts to mark the occasion, expressing hopes that Jia Jia and De De will continue to thrive as they remain among the city's most beloved animal residents.

Camera & Editing & Production & Writing: Joyce Zhou/Reuters