Autopsy Results Reveal Natural Causes
Thai and Chinese experts have determined that the giant panda Lin Hui passed away last month due to old age, according to Chiang Mai Zoo director Wuthichai Muangman. The 21-year-old panda had been living at the zoo for the past 20 years and was under proper care, as confirmed by the experts.
Tissue Samples Examined
During the autopsy, about 50 tissue samples were collected from Lin Hui’s body and examined by the specialists. They concluded that the blood vessels had deteriorated due to her age, leading to clogged vessels in the organs. Lin Hui had developed a nosebleed the day before her death, which was later found to be caused by a nasal tumor.
Overall Good Health Prior to Death
Veterinarians at the Chiang Mai Zoo reported that Lin Hui was in good health and eating normally despite entering old age. Apart from the nosebleed, she showed no signs of illness before her death. Giant pandas generally survive 15-20 years in the wild, but can live up to 30 years in captivity.
Care at Chiang Mai Zoo
The China Wildlife Conservation Association’s experts confirmed that Lin Hui had been well cared for at the Chiang Mai Zoo over the past two decades. Thai and Chinese experts conducted joint research related to giant pandas during her time at the zoo.
Lin Hui’s Life and Legacy
Lin Hui was born on September 28, 2001, at a conservation center in China. She arrived at the Chiang Mai Zoo in October 2003 as a goodwill ambassador and quickly became a star attraction alongside the male giant panda Xuang Xuang, who died in 2019. Lin Hui gave birth to Lin Ping in 2009 after artificial insemination, sparking widespread interest in pandas across Thailand. From 2009 to 2012, Thai animal lovers closely followed Lin Ping’s life through a 24-hour live Panda Channel broadcast.
Future of the Chiang Mai Zoo
With the passing of Lin Hui and Xuang Xuang, it remains to be seen how the Chiang Mai Zoo will continue its panda conservation efforts. However, the zoo’s dedication to providing proper care for its pandas and contributing to joint research efforts between Thai and Chinese experts highlights its commitment to wildlife conservation.
