Katyusha, the first giant panda born in Russia, celebrated her second birthday at Moscow Zoo with a week-long gala. The festivities included a bamboo-and-fruit “cake,” an ice sculpture with her favorite treats, a custom bamboo hut gift, and Chinese-style decorations with dragon and lion dances, tea ceremonies, and handicraft workshops.
Katyusha symbolizes Russia-China friendship and scientific collaboration on giant panda conservation. Her parents, Ru Yi and Ding Ding, arrived in Moscow in 2019 as part of the joint program, and Katyusha’s birth in 2023 drew wide public interest, including over 380,000 votes to choose her name. The celebration attracted visitors of all ages and also recognition from the Chinese Embassy, highlighting her status as a beloved cultural and conservation figure.
Credit: CGTN
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