Video: Giant panda turns 2 at San Diego Zoo

The zoo keepers presented the cub with a cake and gifts

Xiao Liwu enjoys his birthday cake (ITN)

There was plenty of excitement at San Diego Zoo for one male giant panda cub, who turned two on Tuesday.

The cub named Xiao Liwu, which means "little gift" celebrated his second birthday in grand style with zoo keepers throwing him a party.

Xiao Liwu, who is affectionately called Mr Wu for short, was given a huge 4ft tall blue cake to mark his special day, topped off with a big number two.

The cake was made from some of the cub’s favourite treats, including carrots, apples, yams and honey. Along with the cake keepers made present boxes and sea creature decorations for him.

Zoo Keeper Jennifer Becerra said, “He’s a very smart cub, very independent and he’s very brave.”

The special birthday bash also serves as a form of simulation for Xiao Liwu to keep the young panda active and allow him to demonstrate natural behaviour.