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World’s Oldest Panda In Captivity Dies Aged 38 And Four Months

World’s Oldest Panda In Captivity Dies Aged 38 And Four Months

Xin Xing has 153 descendants and is credited with helping save her species

Simon Fearn

Simon Fearn

The world's oldest panda in captivity has died aged 38 and four months.

She was credited with helping save her species after having 36 cubs of her own, leading to 153 descendants.

Giant panda Xin Xing was born in 1982, and came to Chongqing Zoo, China, one year later, where she spent the rest of her life.

Sharing the sad news, the zoo said she died of multiple organ failure on 8 December.

It wrote in a statement: "On 21 October 21 2020, the giant panda Xin Xing was lethargic and unwilling to eat. Difficulty breathing, coughing, and unsteady standing occurred the next day.

"Abdominal distension began to appear on the 23rd, and bowel movements were difficult. During the period, our park invited experts from medical units such as the China Giant Panda Conservation and Research Centre and the First Affiliated Hospital of the Heavy Medical School for consultations.

PA

"After all-out treatment failed, she died at 1.25pm on 8 December.

"Recently, our garden has organised multiple experts to conduct anatomical and pathological sections of Xin Xing. Comprehensive analysis concluded that: due to advanced age and multiple organ failure, the giant panda Xin Xing experienced digestive dysfunction, hypoproteinemia, and secondary digestive tract. Respiratory tract infection eventually led to death.

"The departure of the giant panda Xin Xing makes us feel heartache, and we hereby inform friends from all walks of life who care about Xin Xing."

Xin Xing lived for 38 years and four months. The average lifespan for giant pandas is 20 years in the wild and about 30 years in captivity, so it's fair to say she had a good innings.

PA

Speaking when Xin Xing turned 38 earlier this year, the zoo's giant panda expert Yin Yanqiang said: "At 38, Xin Xing has reached the equivalent of about 110 to 130 in human years.

"There are less than 30 giant pandas in the world that have lived longer than the age of 30."

Rest in peace, Xin Xing.

Featured Image Credit: PA

Topics: World News, Animals, China