The little ones grow up so fast, even giant pandas.

In March 2013, two giant pandas — Er Shun and Da Mao — arrived at the Toronto Zoo as part of a global giant panda conservation breeding program.

On Oct 13, 2015, the Toronto Zoo announced that Er Shun had given birth to the first giant panda cubs ever born in Canada. The twins were named Jia Panpan (Canadian Hope) and Jia Yueyue (Canadian Joy).

On Thursday, the zoo threw a first birthday bash for the young stars.

"The Toronto Zoo is thrilled to be hosting this one-year birthday celebration for our giant panda cubs," said John Tracogna, CEO of the Toronto Zoo. "We are grateful to all of the partners who continue to support the ongoing success of our giant panda program, including the Chinese Association of Zoological Gardens, Chengdu Research Base of Giant Pandas, Chongqing Zoo, State Forestry Administration of China and the Canadian Embassy in Beijing."

When the gifts that represented the traditional Chinese fortunes of "Prosperity", "Happiness", "Wealth" and "Lots of Bamboo" were presented to the two cubs, Jia Yueyue was quick to pick the gift of "Wealth", while Jia Panpan listened to his tummy and chose the gift of "Lots of Bamboo".

Toronto zoo keepers have had the unique opportunity to witness the growth and development of these rare cubs over the past year, and there have been challenges among the moments of joy.

"Watching them grow and surpass the many milestones throughout their first year has been unlike anything else I have experienced in my career," said Karyn Tunwell, the senior panda keeper who has been caring for the cubs since their first day.

"The Toronto Zoo is honoured to be part of this ongoing success story for the giant pandas, and will continue tirelessly supporting and leading the many other species survival programs within the animal kingdom for generations to come," said Robin Hale, the zoo's chief operating officer.

Zoo staff and guests from the Chinese Association of Zoological Gardens were on hand to help celebrate this milestone for the giant panda cubs.

renali@chinadailyusa.com