tuántuán

Tuan Tuan was a female giant panda born in Sichuan, China, in 2004. She was part of the panda conservation program between China and Taiwan. Tuan Tuan arrived in Taiwan in 2008 along with a male panda named Yuan Yuan as a gift from Beijing. Their arrival was a significant event, symbolizing goodwill and fostering cross-strait relations.

The pandas resided at the Taipei Zoo, where they became immensely popular with visitors. Tuan Tuan and Yuan Yuan were a symbol of the enduring cultural and biological ties between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait. Their exhibit was a major attraction, drawing crowds eager to see the beloved animals.

Tuan Tuan, along with Yuan Yuan, were key to ongoing panda breeding research and efforts to increase the giant panda population. Their offspring, Yuan Zai and Yuan Bao, were born in Taiwan, further strengthening the pandas' presence and the conservation efforts. Tuan Tuan was known for her calm demeanor.

Sadly, Tuan Tuan was diagnosed with a neurological condition in late 2022. Despite intensive care and treatment, her health continued to decline. She passed away on November 28, 2022, at the age of 18. Her death was mourned by many in Taiwan and mainland China, highlighting her cultural significance and the deep affection people held for her.