Now that the government shutdown is over, Americans can get back to important tasks like watching the panda cub at the Smithsonian National Zoo.
The National Zoo's IT staff has been working to get the panda cam back up and running on Thursday. The zoo's 15 cameras were turned off because it required federal resources to operate and was deemed nonessential during the shutdown. The zoo will open to the public on Friday, according to a statement on its website.
While government workers were away, the still unnamed 8-week-old cub, has been staying very busy.
Here is what she's been up to since the cameras went dark:
- She now weighs five pounds, up from 3.07 pounds.
- Her right eye started to open on Oct. 4 and by Oct. 11, both eyes had partially opened.
- Her ears are fully opened and she now reacts to noises she hears.
The cub is now strong enough to push herself up on her front two legs and right herself if she is lying on her back. #cubwatch — National Zoo (@NationalZoo) October 17, 2013
U.S. & World
While Mei is out, the cub scoots around the den, though she doesn't get very far. She won't be able to walk until ~4 mos. old #cubwatch — National Zoo (@NationalZoo) October 17, 2013
She has also partially opened her eyes. Her right eye started to open 10/4. By 10/11, both eyes were partially open. #cubwatch — National Zoo (@NationalZoo) October 17, 2013
The cub has grown & passed some milestones! She weighs 5lbs, up from 3.07lbs at her veterinary exam 9/26. http://t.co/i5R5jCb0ZZ #cubwatch — National Zoo (@NationalZoo) October 17, 2013