World’s oldest giant panda in captivity passes away in Hong Kong

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Jia Jia, the oldest giant panda in captivity, passed away in Hong Kong on Sunday at the age of 38, announced Ocean Park Hong Kong, the theme park where it had been living.

Born in southwest China’s Sichuan Province in 1978, Jia Jia, a female, was gifted to Hong Kong by the central government in 1999, and lived at Ocean Park for 17 years.

The average life expectancy of giant pandas in the wild is below 20 years, while those in captivity can live for just over 20 years.

According to the park’s official Facebook page, staff had noticed that Jia Jia’s condition had rapidly deteriorated over the past two weeks, with her food consumption greatly declining from over 10 kilograms to less than 3 kilograms each day. Consequently, she quickly lost 4 kilograms in weight, falling to just 67 kilograms.

The park found Jia Jia’s condition worsening, and veterinarians from the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region reached an agreement with the park to put Jia Jia to sleep on Sunday evening, to prevent further suffering.

The decision was reportedly approved by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and was in line with the park’s policy.

The profile picture and cover photo of the park’s Facebook page have been turned monochrome in memory of the deceased giant panda, and the administrators plan to post a video of Jia Jia’s life later. The park also announced that a memorial corner will be set up to remember one its favorite residents.

Jia Jia has been an ambassador for her species since she came to Hong Kong. She played a popular role in educational programs about pandas, helping raise awareness about protecting endangered species and natural habitats.

After the announcement of Jia Jia’s death, thousands of people paid tribute on Facebook.

“Thanks to Ocean Park for the care which made Jia Jia happy in Hong Kong. Every life has an end. It is the process that matters. Thanks to Jia Jia for bringing pleasure to Hong Kong people,” commented @Sewin Tang.

“Thanks for the pleasure you gave us. Remember you forever! R.I.P,” said @Clara Choi.

“When people talk about Ocean Park, they always think of Jia Jia and An An [another panda that was sent to Hong Kong in 1999 with Jia Jia.),” posted @Man Ching Chau.

(Written by Sun Xiao)

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