National Zoo's Baby Panda Named Bei Bei

US First Lady Michelle Obama and Chinese First Lady Peng Liyuan announced the name of the National Zoo’s baby panda on September 25. With the help of children, the two ladies unfurled a sign that stated the panda’s name is Bei Bei. The two women picked the name from suggestions made by the staff. The name means precious, treasure.

The announcement is part of the state visit by Chinese Leader Xi Jinping.

The baby panda was born on August 22 as part of twins to giant panda Mei Xiang at the zoo. The smaller of the cubs died days after it was born. The surviving panda continues to grow and has started scooting, though he hasn’t started walking. Credit: Smithsonian’s National Zoo