"Our caregivers regularly check Yuan Yuan's teeth for any leftover food and even brush her teeth. We also monitor her cardiovascular health through blood-pressure measurements and ultrasound," said Taipei Zoo spokesperson Eric Tsao.

Over the past decade, the zoo has continuously refined its care for Yuan Yuan in terms of environment, techniques, medical care and diet, he said.

Yuan Yuan, along with "Tuan Tuan" who passed away in 2022, came to Taiwan in 2008, as goodwill gifts from the Chinese mainland. They had their first cub, "Yuan Zai," in 2013, and their second cub, "Yuan Bao," in 2020. After 16 years on the island, Yuan Yuan has garnered a large fan base in Taiwan.

Gao Shi-zheng, a loyal fan, traveled to Taipei from his residence in Hsinchu a day before the birthday.