Two Giant Pandas Return to National Zoo in Washington, D.C. After a Year Absence

Washington, D.C. Welcomes pandas Back to National Zoo

Washington, D.C. is buzzing with excitement as two giant pandas begin their journey back to the National Zoo. According to reports from the China Wildlife Conservation Society and Chinese state-owned media, Bao Li and Qing Bao, both three years old, are set to arrive almost a year after the last group of pandas left for China. This departure marked the first time in over two decades that Washington, D.C. was home to no giant pandas.

A Long-Awaited Return

When the last pandas left, there was uncertainty regarding when or if pandas would return to D.C. However, in May, zoo officials announced the good news that China would send a pair of young pandas. Bao Li is a male, while Qing Bao is female, but their exact arrival date was not disclosed until now.

On Sunday night, Bao Li and Qing Bao began their trip, leaving the China Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Panda in a special vehicle. They were transported to Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport to board a flight to the D.C. area. A spokesperson for the National Zoo didn’t comment immediately about their arrival but later confirmed via social media: “Something giant is coming to Washington, D.C. via the @FedEx Panda Express! The Zoo will be closed to the public tomorrow, Oct. 15.”

Celebrating Conservation and Heritage

The pandas will be housed in D.C. under a new ten-year breeding and research agreement between the U.S. and China. This means they are not just adorable attractions; they are also part of important conservation efforts. Interestingly, Bao Li has D.C. roots—he is the son of Bao Bao, who was born at the National Zoo in 2013.

The director of the National Zoo, Brandie Smith, said the arrival of these pandas showcases the success of the zoo’s giant panda program. Bao Li, which means “treasure” and “energetic” in Mandarin, hails from a lineage that includes grandparent pandas Mei Xiang and Tian Tian, who lived at the zoo for approximately 23 years until they were sent back to China last fall.

Qing Bao’s name translates to “green” and “treasure.” She became the ambassador for the ninth World Wildlife Day at just a year old, underscoring her special status.

Exciting Plans Ahead

FedEx is handling the pandas’ transportation via its “Panda Express” service. After their arrival, the pandas will be quarantined for at least 30 days before they can settle into their new home and make their public debut. The National Zoo has promised to announce the public viewing date once the animal care team believes the pandas are ready.

The zoo’s commitment to panda conservation includes a yearly payment of $1 million to the China Wildlife Conservation Association to support research and conservation initiatives. This funding is entirely separate from federal funds. The National Zoo aims to raise $25 million to renovate the panda exhibit, including maintaining the Giant Panda Cam, along with other expenses related to the pandas’ care.

Renovation and Preparations

The zoo is also working on a variety of improvements to the panda habitat, including new climbing structures, water features, and enhanced air quality and temperature control systems. Although the pandas in D.C. have departed before, new arrivals signal the return of panda diplomacy—the longstanding friendship between China and the U.S.

Pandas as American Icons

Pandas first came to the National Zoo in the 1970s and have since become symbols of the city. From appearing on Metro fare cards to being celebrated in various forms, their cultural impact is undeniable. Tian Tian and Mei Xiang were popular figures, producing offspring that captured the hearts of many.

The pandas are more than just animals; they are bridges between cultures. As one official noted, many adults who cherished pandas as children now look forward to sharing the experience with their little ones. The hope is that the new arrivals will create another generation of memories centered around these beloved creatures.

A Homecoming

With Bao Li and Qing Bao’s arrival, the National Zoo is set to renew its legacy as an important conservation center. These charming creatures will not just enchant visitors but also play a crucial role in panda conservation efforts across the globe. Their journey back to D.C. has rekindled the excitement for pandas and reinforced the bond between cultures.