Giant pandas, renowned symbols of conservation efforts globally, have made their grand return to Washington, D.C. Excitement buzzed through the air when Bao Li and Qing Bao arrived at the Smithsonian National Zoo on October 15, marking the end of nearly a year devoid of panda sightings after the departure of beloved bears Tian Tian, Mei Xiang, and Xiao Qi Ji.
The much-anticipated delivery was carried out by FedEx using a specially-decaled "Panda Express" Boeing 777F, optimized for the delicate cargo. The two pandas—whose names translate to "precious vigor" and "green treasure"—embarked on their transpacific flight from China on October 14, arriving at Dulles International Airport just under 20 hours later.
After the arrival, they were swiftly transferred via police escort to their new home at the National Zoo, enclosed safely within custom-designed crates. This new introduction to D.C. is pivotal, especially following the previous pandas’ return last year due to unsuccessful negotiations with the Chinese government over their continued loan.
The excitement surrounding the pandas is palpable among zoo officials and the community alike. "Our team has worked tirelessly to prepare for the pandas’ arrival, and we’re thrilled to welcome Bao Li and Qing Bao to Washington, D.C.—the only place you can see giant pandas for free in this nation," expressed Brandie Smith, the John and Adrienne Mars Director of the National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute (NZCBI).
While the public awaited the return of these gentle giants, the zoo has informed visitors of the necessary acclimation period. Bao Li and Qing Bao will undergo 30 days of quarantine before the zoo opens its gates for public viewing. Members of the Smithsonian will get the first glimpse, with access beginning January 10, 2025, followed by the grand public reveal on January 24.
Adding to the excitement, the National Zoo has announced the return of its beloved Giant Panda Cam, thrilling panda enthusiasts everywhere. Although the camera's return is anticipated soon, visitors can currently engage with the zoo’s “Prepping for Pandas” series, offering behind-the-scenes glimpses of the pandas’ transition and preparation for their public debut.
Pandas have long held a special place within the hearts of people around the world, serving not merely as animals on display but as ambassadors for their endangered species. Their presence symbolizes the zoo's efforts to engage the public with conservation initiatives aimed at protecting these magnificent creatures, along with other wildlife.
Overall, the enthusiastic reintroduction of Bao Li and Qing Bao to the Smithsonian National Zoo embodies more than just their arrival; it heralds renewed opportunities for education, awareness, and connection with one of the world's most cherished animals. The National Zoo continues to be recognized as one of the premier venues for viewing giant pandas, free of charge, making it accessible for all to witness these extraordinary bears up close.
With anticipation building, both locals and visitors alike are lining up to catch sight of these iconic bears once again. Bao Li and Qing Bao are poised to captivate the hearts of many, as they settle back in their new environment and prepare for their long-awaited debut at the zoo.
