Pandas, typically known for their gentle demeanour and lovable appearance, can display unexpected aggression when they feel threatened or provoked. A recent incident at Chongqing Zoo in China underscored this rarely seen side of pandas when a giant panda attacked its zookeeper, tossing her around the enclosure, leaving onlookers stunned.

The Unexpected Attack

The incident involved a nine-year-old panda named Ding Ding, who became visibly agitated and charged at the zookeeper during routine maintenance in the enclosure. As captured in now-viral videos, the altercation began when the zookeeper attempted to shut a metal door inside the panda’s habitat to prevent Ding Ding from accessing a restricted passageway. The panda, however, was persistent, and despite the zookeeper’s repeated efforts to keep the door closed, it reopened several times, frustrating the animal.

Ding Ding’s frustration soon turned to aggression as the panda charged towards the zookeeper, chasing her around the enclosure before throwing her to the ground. The dramatic footage shows the zookeeper struggling to fend off the panda as it climbed on top of her and attempted to bite. Despite the panda’s powerful size and strength, the zookeeper managed to push Ding Ding away with a few well-placed kicks, eventually freeing herself and escaping the enclosure unharmed.

Onlookers Left in Shock

The unexpected aggression left onlookers in shock, as pandas are often perceived as docile creatures. The video of the incident quickly spread across social media, with viewers expressing both concern and surprise at the panda’s behaviour. Many users commented on the zookeeper’s bravery in the face of such a formidable animal, while others pointed out the inherent dangers of working closely with wild animals, even those that seem as gentle as pandas.

Zoo’s Response and Investigation

Following the attack, Chongqing Zoo released a statement saying that both the panda and the zookeeper were receiving the necessary care and attention. The zoo assured the public that Ding Ding was not injured during the incident and that the zookeeper did not sustain any serious harm. However, the zoo is closely monitoring Ding Ding for any signs of stress that may have contributed to the attack.

A spokesperson for Chongqing Zoo told TMZ that the incident is under investigation to determine what led to the sudden aggression and to assess safety measures to prevent future occurrences. They emphasised that while pandas are generally calm, they are still wild animals capable of unpredictable behaviour, especially when they feel threatened or frustrated.

Not the First Incident

This incident is not isolated; similar attacks have been reported in other zoos across China. In April 2024, a zookeeper at another zoo was attacked by two pandas during a feeding session. Video footage from that incident shows the pandas bounding towards the handler, who initially appeared to offer snacks but was quickly overpowered as the pandas began to attack. The zookeeper was pinned down by the animals and had to struggle for several minutes before managing to escape with only minor injuries.

These incidents highlight the complexities of working with animals that, while appearing tame and friendly, retain their wild instincts. Zoo officials and animal experts stress the importance of rigorous safety protocols and ongoing staff training to minimise risks.

The Gentle Giants with a Wild Side

Pandas are often adored worldwide for their gentle appearance, and many forget that beneath the fluffy exterior lies a powerful wild animal with natural defensive instincts. While pandas generally avoid confrontation, they can become aggressive when provoked, especially when they feel their territory is being encroached upon or when they are protecting their young.

This incident serves as a reminder that, despite their lovable nature, pandas are not immune to the unpredictable behaviour typical of wild animals. For zookeepers and wildlife handlers, maintaining respect and caution when dealing with these gentle giants is paramount to ensuring the safety of both the animals and the humans who care for them.

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