Ying Ying, a panda at a Hong Kong theme park, has given birth to twins that were conceived naturally, a cause for celebration for conservationists rooting for the survival of this vulnerable and low-libido species.

       Ying Ying delivered the cubs one day before turning 19, making her the oldest giant panda on record to give birth for the first time, according to Ocean Park, the animal theme park where she lives. The cubs are also the first to be born in the city.

       Paulo Pong, the chairman of Ocean Park Corporation, said that the births were “thrilling news” and a rarity, given Ying Ying’s advanced age. (Pandas in captivity can live to around 30, but 14 to 20 is more typical in the wild.)

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