Giant panda cub and mum cuddle at National Zoo

A newborn panda baby in a Washington DC zoo had a sucessful first night, according to keepers at the Smithsonian's National Zoo.

In footage released by the zoo, the mother, giant panda Mei Xiang, can be seen cradling her cub.

Mei Xiang appeared to nurse the baby and was very attentive to its vocalisations.

The pair are being watched via Panda Cam, allowing the two time to bond but staff are ready to step in if necessary.

Mei Xiang has already successfully reared three cubs to adulthood and gave birth to her new offspring at around 6.35pm on Friday evening.

The baby's gender is currently unknown and it is around the size of a stick of butter.

In accordance with tradition it will not be named for 100 days.