10 Most Memorable Animals of 2012

Photo by: Courtesy of the San Diego Zoo

Xiao Liwu

Xiao Liwu captivated the nation when he was born in July at the San Diego Zoo to 20-year-old mother Bai Yun. In fact, we are compelled to admit that we follow the giant panda cub's weekly health examinations more closely than we do our favorite primetime shows.

Thankfully, the zoo keeps us updated when Xiao Liwu (which means "little gift") reaches a new developmental stage, like opening

... more 

Photo by: Courtesy of the San Diego Zoo

Xiao Liwu

Xiao Liwu captivated the nation when he was born in July at the San Diego Zoo to 20-year-old mother Bai Yun. In fact, we are compelled to admit that we follow the giant panda cub's weekly health examinations more closely than we do our favorite primetime shows.

Thankfully, the zoo keeps us updated when Xiao Liwu (which means "little gift") reaches a new developmental stage, like opening his eyes, learning to walk or playing with a ball. So what do his fans have to look forward to in 2013? Finally seeing the little guy in the zoo's panda exhibit, of course.

Beth Bicknese, the zoo's senior veterinarian, says, "He needs two things to go on exhibit: The ability to climb - and he's not quite there yet - and he also has to have the behavior of following his mom out and back into the de

less