Washington's National Zoo is set to welcome two giant pandas, Bao Li and Qing Bao, from China by the end of the year. This announcement comes after the return of three pandas to China earlier this year due to the expiration of loan agreements amid diplomatic tensions between the U.S. and China.
The Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute has been at the forefront of giant panda conservation efforts for over five decades, contributing to the species' shift from 'endangered' to 'vulnerable' on the global list of at-risk species.
The zoo's director expressed excitement about the new pandas, highlighting the positive impact of the collaboration with Chinese colleagues on panda conservation and habitat preservation.
Chinese President Xi Jinping had previously indicated China's intention to send new pandas to the United States as symbols of friendship between the two nations.
The pandas, Bao Li and Qing Bao, are both 2 years old and are descendants of the National Zoo's previous panda family. They will undergo a minimum 30-day quarantine upon arrival before making their public debut.
The research and breeding agreement with China extends through April 2034, with any cubs born at the zoo slated to return to China by age 4. The zoo will also contribute a $1 million annual fee to support conservation efforts in China.
Overall, the arrival of these new pandas marks a significant milestone in the ongoing partnership between the U.S. and China in giant panda conservation.
