By Jazz Bullock
One day after Zoo Atlanta celebrated the first birthday of Mei Lan, reports are circling that the baby panda did not have a good time.
"I saw her moping around a lot," said Jack Andrews, a frequent zoo patron. "She kinda hid behind those trees and pouted."
While zoo officials insist Mei Lan had a great first birthday, others disagree.
"Mei Lan didn't play like she normally does. In fact, she seemed more aggressive and was swatting at some of us," said Jana McDonald. "I think she was throwing a temper tantrum."
One zoo keeper, who wished to remain anonymous, said Mei Lan was upset because she didn't get the presents she wanted.
"All she really got was a unicycle and skirt," said the zoo keeper. "She wanted all sorts of things. I heard she asked for a pony and even an iPhone. She didn't even get the Bamboo Barbie she wanted."
Mei Lan, who went to her cage and locked the door, was unavailable for comment.
Bruce Chan, a panda expert, suspects Mei Lan's depression is caused by her father, Yang Yang, who has refused to acknowledge he has a daughter.
"Mei Lan was artificially inseminated, so Yang Yang feels a bit cheated. The thought he was just releasing some pressure and the next thing he knows he has a daughter. He has to feel a bit used," said Chan. "Unfortunately, Mei Lan has to suffer for that."
When reached for comment Yang Yang, who did not attend any of Mei Lan's birthday party, turned his back and started chewing on bamboo.