top of page
Writer's picturemeowdini
May 303 min read

New Giant Pandas Set to Arrive at Washington’s National Zoo by Year-End

Exciting news for panda enthusiasts: Two new giant pandas are slated to arrive at Washington’s National Zoo from China by the end of this year. The announcement, made on Wednesday, comes half a year after the zoo sent its three pandas back to China amid diplomatic tensions.


Giant Pandas National Zoo Smithsonian Zoo Panda Conservation Bao Li Qing Bao US-China Relations Wildlife Preservation Panda Breeding Program Endangered Species Panda Fans Diplomatic Relations Conservation Efforts Washington DC Pandas

The new pandas, named Bao Li (pronounced BOW'-lee) and Qing Bao (ching-BOW’), are expected to be a major attraction. Giant pandas have been iconic in Washington, D.C., and beloved worldwide, with the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute playing a pivotal role in panda conservation. This program has been instrumental in moving the species from "endangered" to "vulnerable" on the global list of at-risk species.


“We’re thrilled to announce the next chapter of our breeding and conservation partnership begins by welcoming two new bears, including a descendant of our beloved panda family, to Washington, D.C.,” said Brandie Smith, the zoo’s director. “This historic moment is proof positive our collaboration with Chinese colleagues has made an irrefutable impact. Through this partnership, we have grown the panda population, advanced our shared understanding of how to care for this beloved bear, and learned what’s needed to protect wild pandas and preserve native habitats.”


Diplomatic Significance

The return of giant pandas to the National Zoo marks a significant step in U.S.-China relations. During a trip in late 2023, Chinese President Xi Jinping signaled that new pandas would be sent to the United States, referring to them as “envoys of friendship between the Chinese and American peoples.” Xi emphasized China's commitment to continuing cooperation on panda conservation with the U.S., aiming to strengthen the ties between the two nations.

Two weeks ago, the Chinese Embassy in Washington held an event showcasing a video series about the friendship between the people of China and the U.S. During the event, Brandie Smith gave an emotional speech recounting her experiences with giant pandas, highlighting the deep bond and shared commitment to conservation.


A New Beginning for Panda Conservation

The zoo accompanied the announcement with a light-hearted video featuring Smith, Smithsonian Institution Secretary Lonnie G. Bunch III, and First Lady Jill Biden. The trio humorously discussed protocol for a reception to welcome the pandas, noting their preference for a vegetarian diet and their distinctive black and white appearance.

The arrival of Bao Li and Qing Bao marks a new chapter in the Smithsonian’s long-standing panda conservation efforts. The program has been crucial in understanding panda care and preservation, making significant strides in growing the panda population and protecting their native habitats.


Farewell to Previous Pandas

Last November, the zoo bid farewell to giant pandas Tian Tian, Mei Xiang, and their cub Xiao Qi Ji, who returned to China. This departure was met with a nationwide outpouring of farewell messages from millions of U.S. panda fans. With their return, the only remaining panda family in the U.S. resides at Zoo Atlanta, scheduled to return to China later this year.



Looking Forward

As Washington prepares to welcome Bao Li and Qing Bao, there is renewed excitement and optimism for the future of panda conservation. The new arrivals are not only a testament to the enduring partnership between the U.S. and China but also a symbol of hope for the continued success of global wildlife preservation efforts.


Two new giant pandas are arriving at Washington’s National Zoo from China by the end of the year, marking a significant step in U.S.-China relations and panda conservation efforts.



댓글

bottom of page