Source: CCTV.com

12-21-2006 08:24

After years of methodical research, scientists say there's a baby boom among one of the world's most beloved species - the giant panda. This year is indeed one for the record books - with 31 pandas born in captivity.

Nine new cubs now live at the Chengdu Panda Breeding Center.

The number of successful births has more than doubled the 12 of 2005, and tripled the year 2000 total of only nine.

This year 14 came the natural way, while artificial insemination helped produce the rest. The newest arrivals were born in August and September.

The Chengdu Breeding Center is one of just two places in the world where visitors can be guaranteed a look at baby pandas.