Memphis Zoo Giant Panda “Le Le” dies

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — One of the Memphis Zoo’s Giant Pandas has died, zoo officials announced on Friday, February 3, 2023.

The Zoo said Le Le died at the age of 25. A spokesperson for the Memphis Zoo said the Giant Panda died “unexpectedly” on February 1, 2023.

“Memphis Zoo is devasted to announce the passing of Giant panda “Le Le”, the zoo said, in part, in a press release.

The zoo said that there were no signs that Le Le was sick, though he appeared to not be eating well for a couple of hours during a single day due to a stomach upset.

He appeared to be eating well after that day though, a Memphis Zoo veterinarian said.

“We intend to find a reason for his passing,” the veterinarian said. “We want the final examination to be absolutely as thorough as possible,” a Memphis Zoo spokesperson added. “But, we are thankful that it was peaceful and all indications are that case. In fact, he was thought to be sleeping. And, for that, we are thankful.”

Le Le, whose name translates to “happy happy” had been with the zoo since 2003 and the Memphis Zoo said his name fit his personality.

“Le Le was a happy bear that enjoyed apples, engaging with enrichment and relaxing while covering himself with freshly shredded bamboo. He had an easy-going personality and was a favorite of all who met and worked with him over the years,” the zoo said.

The Memphis Zoo said that Giant Pandas typically live 20 years in the wild and live for some years past that when being cared for by a veterinarian.

RELATED: Memphis Zoo pandas, Ya Ya and Le Le, returning to China after decades in the Bluff City

Le Le was one of two of Memphis’ Giant Pandas, leaving behind his partner Ya Ya.

After 20 years in Memphis, the pair was set to return to China just a few months after Le Le died.

An independent evaluation will be conducted by both international professionals and professionals from the United States.

Chinese Embassy Spokesperson issued a statement:

We are saddened by the passing of giant panda Le Le. The Chinese Embassy in the US will assist relevant parties in handling the aftermath. It is understood that the China Association of Zoological Gardens(CAZG) has been in close contact with the Memphis Zoo and will send an expert group quickly as possible. The experts will work with their US counterparts to find out the cause of the death.

Le Le arrived at the Memphis Zoo 20 years ago. Over the years, it has brought a lot of joy to the American people and played a unique role in promoting China-US cooperation in giant panda conservation and friendly exchanges between the Chinese and American peoples. Giant pandas have become an icon of mutual appreciation and friendship between the two peoples. We will cherish the fond memories Le Le left to us during its stay in the United States.

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