BANGKOK, Jan. 18 (Xinhuanet) -- Chinese pandas Chuang Chuang and Lin Hui have made their first mating in northern Chiang Mai city where they have dwelled for more than two years, local press reported Wednesday.

    The couple, who just got married on Nov. 9 last year, began to engage in mock wrestling bouts Sunday, a sign to get ready for mate.

    Heeding the delightful changes, a special observation team was set up immediately to follow up the movements of the pandas, said zoo director Tanapat Pongpamorn.

    We mobilized both veterinarians and experts to keep a round-the-clock vigil, and about 2 p.m. Tuesday we saw Chuang Chuang and Lin Hui mate for the first time, he was quoted by Bangkok Post as saying.

    From Tuesday morning, the pair began to take turns sniffing each other, an act believed by expects as clear signs of the impending mating.

    Lin Hui, the female, kept walking by Chuang Chuang and turned her rear toward him, but only was pushed away by the male with his paws.

    As zoo officials were frustrated by the lack of developments in their contact for hours, Chuang Chuang seemed to understand what he was supposed to do. He discarded his resistance, sat and leaned backward while spreading his legs. Lin Hui then moved backward and sat on top of him.

    There was some movement and after a while Lin Hui let out a humming noise, but Chuang Chuang showed little reaction. A few minutes later, the two parted, wounding up their first romantic encounter.

    The mating scenario was expected to continue for the next two or three days after which the two pandas will be under close observation for signs of reproductive success. said Tanapat.

    A pregnant giant panda usually has a gestation period of about four or five months. Mating takes place only once a year, according to experts.

    Chuang Chuang and Lin Hui arrived at Chiang Mai Zoo on Oct. 12,2003 on a 10-year loan from China. Since their arrival, the giant pandas have attracted 1.5 million visitors and brought in a revenue of 1.58 million U.S. dollars for the zoo. Now, Chuang Chuang is five years and three months old, and Lin Hui, four years and five months. Enditem