Finland's Ahtari Zoo, home to two giant pandas named Lumi and Pyry, will return the beloved animals to China more than eight years earlier than planned. The pandas were originally brought over on a 15-year loan agreement signed during Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to Finland back in 2017. Now, due to mounting financial pressures exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, the zoo has announced their return will take place this November.
Ahtari Zoo, located in central Finland, had envisioned the pandas as major attractions to draw visitors. Unfortunately, the realities of soaring operational costs and dwindling attendance following pandemic restrictions have made it increasingly difficult to support their care. “The cost for the panda house was 8.5 million euros (around $9.5 million), and the annual cost for keeping the pandas is around 1.5 million euros,” revealed Risto Sivonen, chair of the zoo's board.
While both pandas are currently reported to be in good health, they will undergo a month-long quarantine before their departure, ensuring safe transport back to their native habitat. This situation highlights the broader challenges facing zoological institutions, especially as they're tasked with the dual goals of education and conservation.
The decision to return the pandas marks a significant shift for the zoo, which has experienced difficulties adapting financially since the pandemic. Throughout 2020 and 2021, visitor numbers dropped drastically, with revenues plummeting as travel restrictions stymied tourism. The zoo had hoped the pandas would invigorate local tourism but has instead incurred increasing debts. “We were very confident this was the right decision,” Sivonen explained, reflecting on when the agreement was first made. “But our economic situation does not permit us to keep the pandas any longer.”
Panda diplomacy, a term often used to describe China's practice of sending giant pandas overseas as gestures of goodwill, has long been used to strengthen diplomatic ties with nations worldwide. Following their arrival, Lumi and Pyry were heralded as symbols of this delicate relationship between Finland and China. Now, their return serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of such agreements amid changing economic circumstances.
Experts and animal lovers alike have reacted to the unfortunate news with mixed feelings. Many agree the decision seems inevitable under the current circumstances, acknowledging the zoo's financial burdens. Others are saddened by the reality of losing these charming animals, often symbols of conservation efforts. Until their departure, Ahtari Zoo will continue fostering the care and wellbeing of both pandas, presenting one last opportunity for visitors to enjoy their playful interactions.
Global panda populations remain endangered, with estimates of around 1,860 individuals remaining in the wild. Conservation efforts across the globe strive to protect their habitats and promote breeding programs, with countries often collaborating to share knowledge and resources. Ahtari Zoo will work closely with their partners in China to finalize the details of Lumi and Pyry’s return, ensuring their environmentally safe transport.
This move not only raises questions about the sustainability of panda programs globally but also serves as a cautionary tale for similar initiatives. The challenges of maintaining such high-profile animals like pandas can predominate over the initial goodwill and excitement they bring. Finland’s experience may prompt other zoos holding foreign animals to re-evaluate their agreements and operational strategies as they too grapple with changes stemming from the global pandemic.
While the return of Lumi and Pyry is sad for many, it sheds light on the economic pressures wildlife institutions face now more than ever. The situation can act as fuel for discussions surrounding financial planning for zoos, protection efforts for endangered species, and the viability of international partnerships focused on wildlife conservation.
Despite the closure of this chapter for the Ahtari Zoo, the hope remains strong for the future of panda conservation both locally and abroad. With effective planning and collaboration, it's possible to support healthier ecosystems without compromising on animal welfare. The zoo acknowledges the love and support of their community as they prepare for the painful farewell, reminding everyone of the unique bond forged during Lumi and Pyry’s time at Ahtari.
For now, all attention turns toward the final weeks before the pandas are scheduled to leave Finland, offering their caretakers one last opportunity to engage the public and create lasting memories.
