Russian-born panda "Katyusha" celebrates birthday with avid fans

Moscow: Katyusha, the first giant panda ever born in Russia, celebrated her second birthday on Sunday at Moscow Zoo, where a week long gala greeted...

Moscow: "Katyusha," the first giant panda ever born in Russia, celebrated her second birthday on Sunday at Moscow Zoo, where a week-long gala greeted visitors pouring in to honor the "popular star."

To mark the special day, the zoo crafted a bespoke "cake" using bamboo and fresh fruits, paired with an ice sculpture shaped like the number "2." Frozen within the ice were carrots, one of the cub's favorite treats.

On her birthday, zookeepers went the extra mile to build a tiny bamboo hut as a special gift. Amid visitors' cheers, "Katyusha" was instantly captivated by the hut she sniffed out the biscuits hidden inside by her keepers, then quickly tore into the bamboo structure, munching away with obvious delight.

Moscow Zoo was decked out in Chinese-style decor throughout the week. Red lanterns, an iconic symbol of joy and festivity in Chinese culture, lined the path from the zoo's entrance all the way to the Giant panda Pavilion. Visitors enjoyed traditional dragon and lion dances, elegant tea ceremonies, handicraft workshops, and a documentary on the growth journey of "Katyusha."