23rd December 2024 – (Hong Kong) Ocean Park is embracing the festive spirit this holiday season with a special celebration featuring its new giant pandas, An An and Ke Ke. The park’s diverse animal ambassadors are also participating in the festivities, thanks to a variety of Christmas-themed enrichments prepared by their caretakers.
An An and Ke Ke are joyfully marking their first Christmas in Hong Kong. Their caretakers have created a custom-designed Christmas tree made from their favourite bamboo, topped with a wowotou as a sparkling star. Additionally, intricate ice sculptures decorated with carrots and purple potatoes, along with charming snowmen sculpted from ice, contribute to the celebratory atmosphere.
The animal care team reports that both pandas have adapted well to their new surroundings, enjoying interactive enrichment items such as climbing structures and puzzle feeders of various shapes and sizes. A specialised husbandry training programme has been developed for the pandas, centred on target and desensitisation training. This initiative aims to encourage voluntary participation in medical examinations, including blood pressure measurements and ultrasounds, without the need for anaesthesia.
In addition to An An and Ke Ke, the animal care team has prepared delightful ice sculptures and an ice Christmas tree featuring carrots for another giant panda, Le Le. Meanwhile, Ying Ying and her twin cubs are enjoying their own unique celebration, with Ying Ying indulging in ice sculptures filled with her favourite treats, while the twins delight in Christmas packs filled with plush toys.
The cubs are growing rapidly; the elder sister loves exploring her surroundings and plays with toys as soon as she wakes up, while the younger brother is gentle with his toys and enjoys interacting with his caretakers.
Across the park, various animal ambassadors are joining in the holiday cheer. In the Panda Village, playful otters are enchanted by a beautifully decorated ice Christmas tree. At The Grand Aquarium, a festive wreath has been added to the home of a curious pufferfish named ‘Fat Ball’. The penguin family at the South Pole Spectacular engages joyfully with a colourful snowman, while Arctic foxes play in a newly crafted ice igloo.
At the Little Meerkat and Giant Tortoise Adventure, meerkats are surrounded by holiday decorations, including a mailbox to Santa and festive presents. The Rainforest team has also crafted a veggie Christmas tree for May the capybara, adding a cheerful touch to her habitat. Meanwhile, lively red-handed tamarins are enjoying a wooden Christmas tree adorned with colourful ornaments, showcasing their playful nature.
From now until 1st January 2025, visitors can immerse themselves in the Ocean Park Wondrous Winter Gala and Giant Panda Celebration, featuring a range of panda-themed experiences, festive foods, beverages, and merchandise, alongside numerous Instagrammable photo spots.
