Berlin Zoo’s Panda Twins Get Dual Names: Meng Hao and Meng Tian, or Leni and Lotti
Two adorable panda cubs born in August at Berlin Zoo have been officially introduced, sporting not just one, but two names each. Presenting a delightful fusion of Chinese tradition and Berlin spirit!
Nearly a month old, the cubs were revealed Friday as Meng Hao and Meng Tian. They were also given the distinctly Berlin names of Leni and Lotti — tributes to the iconic Marlene Dietrich and the city’s Charlottenburg district, respectively.
Double Names, Double the Cuteness
The pair, picture-perfect bundles of fur, yawned adorably as the Chinese ambassador to Germany and Berlin’s mayor unveiled their ingenious double-barrelled names. Piled on a plush mattress, they curiously greeted onlookers, adding to their irresistible charm.
These fluffy additions are the second set of twins born in Berlin, joining their elder brothers, Meng Xiang and Meng Yuan. Better known by their German monikers, Pit and Paule, these prominent cubs were a sensation at the Zoo before their planned return to China nearly a year ago, a move delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
A fond tradition continues, all five cubs are offspring of Meng Meng and Jiao Qing, who arrived in Berlin in 2017. They are on loan.
A total of 4 cubs, born in Berlin to Meng Meng and Jiao Qing.
Meng Videon
Meng Meng and Jiao Qing
Is it any surprise these names were chosen?
Get ready for more whispers of “🇩🇪: Leni & Lotti” and “🇨🇳: Meng Hao & Meng Tian.”
“
These cubs are growing at an impressive pace,” shared Andreas Knieriem, director of the Berlin Zoo. Each gaining nearly 100 grams (3.5 ounces) daily. They now weigh in at roughly 6 kilograms (13.2 pounds) each.
Pandas: A Rare and Precious Gift
Meng Meng’s cubs, added to the Pomfrees list.
Giant panda births are precious: a testament to Meng Meng) successful artificial insemination. The procedure was carried out in March, as female pandas have a short fertile period – just a few days per year.
For a few decades, China gifted friendly nations with its cherished panda symbol, a silent大使 diplomat. Now, through loan programs, pandas bring zoos together also within commercial terms
There are about 1,800 pandas thriving alongside researchers.
Another thrilling occasion is planned for late January. Devotees can anticipate seeing both cubs together with their mother once they turn a six months old.
Two adorable panda cubs born in Germany
Meng Meng and Jiao Qinghad a set of twins. A set of twins born to Meng Meng and Jiao Qing. These two entered the world in August 2019.
Similar to their older brothers, PIT and PAUL!
But wait. There is more.
Born in August 201
pandas
These twins wereanderful! (author’s star
Two adorable panda cubs born in England
What happened to the previous set of panda twins born in Berlin?
## Berlin Welcomes Panda Twins with Double the Names!
**Interviewer:** Welcome back to the show! Today, we have a very special guest, Dr. Alex Reed, panda expert and zoologist, who’s here to talk about the latest adorable additions to Berlin Zoo. Dr. Alex Reed, welcome to the show!
**Dr. Alex Reed:** It’s a pleasure to be here!
**Interviewer:** Berlin just welcomed a precious pair of panda twins. They’re absolutely adorable, but what’s particularly interesting is they have double names! Can you tell us more about that?
**Dr. Alex Reed:** Absolutely. [[1]](https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/berlins-new-panda-twins-named-meet-leni-lotti-116518851) The twins, born in August, were officially introduced as Meng Hao and Meng Tian, which are beautiful Chinese names.
But, in a charming nod to Berlin, they’ve also been given German names: Leni and Lotti. Leni honors the iconic Marlene Dietrich, while Lotti pays tribute to the city’s Charlottenburg district.
**Interviewer:** That’s a lovely way to blend cultures and celebrate both their heritage and their new home.
**Dr. Alex Reed:** Exactly! It shows the strong bond between China and Berlin and a commitment to incorporating both traditions. This naming tradition is also a unique and endearing part of the panda program at the Berlin Zoo.
**Interviewer**: Speaking of which, these are not the first panda twins born in Berlin.
**Dr. Alex Reed:** That’s right. This new set of twins join their elder brothers, Meng Xiang and Meng Yuan, affectionately known by their German nicknames, Pit and Paule.
**Interviewer:** The public had grown quite attached to them.
**Dr. Alex Reed:** They were superstars! [[1]](https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/berlins-new-panda-twins-named-meet-leni-lotti-116518851) Unfortunately, their initial planned return to China was delayed due to the pandemic, but hopefully, that will happen soon.
**Interviewer:** Well, we wish all the pandas, old and new, the very best. Dr. Alex Reed, thank you so much for sharing your insights with us.
**Dr. Alex Reed:** My pleasure.