Young panda growing steadily as zoo officials prepare to open her to public in July

CHIANGMAI, 12 June 2009 (NNT)-Reports from Chiang Mai Zoo have indicated that the now popular panda cub has gained considerable weight and strength, making it possible that the unnamed cub will be open for public observation in July.

Chiang Mai Zoo remained abuzz today as zoo veterinarians continued to report steady growth from the panda cub of Lin Hui now at 17 days of age. Lin Hui’s veterinarian Dr. Kanikarn Nimtrakul and Panda Specialist Wai Ming spent 10 minutes this morning rehearsing physical check up procedures on the young panda. Members of Chiang Mai Zoo received training from Chinese specialists so that monitoring could continue throughout the day.

The cub has gained 130 grams of weight in the past 2 days and now weighs a healthy 630 grams and is 22 centimeters in length. Her permanent hair has also begun to grow showing positive signs for her maturity. Zoo officials will soon conclude a competition to name the young panda and have made plans to allow the public to view her in July.