The National Zoo in Washington, D.C., is set to welcome two new giant pandas, Bao Li and Qing Bao, from China by the end of the year. This announcement comes after the departure of Washington’s three pandas last November. The zoo’s director, Brandie Smith, described the arrival of the new pandas as the next chapter in their breeding and conservation partnership with China. Giant pandas are highly prized in the United States, and their presence at American zoos has diminished due to diplomatic tensions between the U.S. and China.
The Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute has been a key player in giant panda conservation efforts for over fifty years, helping move the species from “endangered” to “vulnerable” on the global list of endangered species. Chinese President Xi Jinping had previously indicated that China would send new pandas to the United States as a symbol of friendship between the Chinese and American people. These pandas are seen as envoys of peace and cooperation between the two nations.
The departure of Washington’s previous panda family, including Tian Tian, Mei Xiang, and their cub Xiao Qi Ji, last year sparked an emotional farewell from panda fans all over the United States. Only one panda family remains in American zoos, at Zoo Atlanta, and they are also scheduled to return to China later this year. However, the San Diego Zoo recently announced their plans to welcome a new panda pair, Yun Chuan and Xin Bao, from China this summer. A separate agreement has also been made to send a breeding pair of pandas to San Francisco.
Pandas have long been a symbol of friendship between the U.S. and China, dating back to Beijing’s gift of a pair of pandas to the National Zoo in 1972. Despite recent tensions between the two countries, efforts to preserve and protect these iconic animals remain a priority for both nations. The National Zoo has shared details about the two pandas coming to Washington, including their names, ages, and family history. The zoo will also pay an annual fee to the China Wildlife Conservation Association to support research and conservation efforts in China.
The arrival of Bao Li and Qing Bao in Washington is expected to reignite panda-mania among visitors and panda enthusiasts across the nation. This new chapter in the conservation partnership between the United States and China represents a positive step towards cooperation and collaboration in preserving endangered species like the giant panda. The zoo’s ongoing efforts to promote conservation and research will continue with the presence of these new pandas, ensuring a bright future for these beloved animals.
