Help name the baby panda something else besides Butterstick, unfortunately…the National Zoo has posted a contest on their web site that anybody can participate in: a naming contest for the zoo’s newest addition. Unfortunately the moniker Butterstick, a nickname that was popularized in these very pages and promoted throughout the blogosphere, is not an option. Surprisingly. What you can choose from follows:

Hua Sheng (hwah-SHUNG), means China Washington, magnificent
Sheng Hua (SHUNG-hwah), means Washington China, magnificent
Tai Shan (tie-SHON), means peaceful mountain
Long Shan (lone-SHON), means dragon mountain
Qiang Qiang (chee-ONG chee-ONG), means strong, powerful

Hmm. What’s the deal with “China Washington” or “Washington China”? And why isn’t there an option for “Adorable Roly Poly One”? Anyways, voting will continue until September 30, with the winning name announced in October. Additionally, one participant will be chosen for an all-expenses paid trip to Washington D.C. – which may not seem so exciting to readers of this site, but, BUT: you also get a “private, up-close” visit with the pandas. Sign us up.

UPDATE: Those who love democracy can vote for a list of options, including Butterstick, right here. We’re not sure exactly how it works, but it’s nifty indeed. Let freedom reign!

Image courtesy of the National Zoo