National Zoo: New Panda Cub Is A Growing Boy

WMAL News

WASHINGTON — The Smithsonian National Zoo has confirmed that its 6-week-old giant panda cub is a growing boy.

According to a release from the zoo, the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute’s Center for Conservation Genomics analyzed the giant panda cub’s DNA and determined it is a male.

The genetic test was necessary because male and female panda cubs appear physically identical to exterior examination.

The zoo also offered an update on the baby panda’s growth. Officials said the unnamed panda seemed to have experienced a sudden growth spurt since its last exam.

According to the release, the panda weighed 4.5 pounds and measured 15 inches from its nose to the tip of its tail.

Zoo officials said they’re happy to see that the cub is growing and making good gains.

For now, the Panda-cam is still the only way for panda-maniacs to get their fix. The zoo reopened on a limited basis July 24 with visitors needing timed passes to keep the crowds down. But the indoor panda house remains closed and the Asia Trail, where Tian Tian can still be viewed, is temporarily closed to visitors for a scheduled repaving of walkways.

You can read the zoo’s official press release here.