Giant pandas have made their highly anticipated return to the Smithsonian's National Zoo, marking the start of new conservation efforts aimed at nurturing these beloved creatures. The two three-year-old pandas, Bao Li and Qing Bao, were introduced to enthusiastic crowds on January 24, 2025, after their arrival from China on October 15, 2024.
These adorable pandas, now the ninth and tenth to reside at the National Zoo, come with distinct personalities. According to zookeepers, Bao Li, the male, is playful and curious, often enjoying interactions with visitors, whereas Qing Bao, the female, tends to be more cautious and takes comfort among the treetops.
This joyous return follows the notable exit of pandas Mei Xiang, Tian Tian, and their cub Xiao Qi Ji who were sent back to China after 23 years of residence. Their departure left Washington without giant pandas for the first time since 1971, making the arrival of Bao Li and Qing Bao even more significant.
The Smithsonian signed a new ten-year agreement with the China Wildlife Conservation Association. This deal allows the two pandas to stay at the zoo for $1 million annually, which demonstrates the zoo's commitment to giant panda conservation efforts.
To commemorate their arrival, the National Zoo is gearing up for their two-week-long 'District of Panda Party,' from January 29 to February 9, 2025. The event will feature musical performances, dance parties, panda trivia games, and even classes for yoga with the pandas!
Meanwhile, around 600 miles south at Zoo Atlanta, there’s concern for their own giant pandas Lun Lun and Yang Yang, who have captivated visitors for over a decade. Zoo officials announced they need $500,000 to secure new five-year leases for these charismatic bears, whose agreement with China is set to expire this year.
The president and CEO of Zoo Atlanta, Dennis Kelly, emphasized the importance of community involvement by stating, "We wanted everybody to participate in a decision to keep them or not keep them." This approach not only involves fundraising but also seeks to engage the public's emotional connection to these endangered species.
The new agreement will require Zoo Atlanta to cover substantial loan fees totaling $2.5 million, most of which have already been raised. Lun Lun and Yang Yang have produced two cubs, making Zoo Atlanta notable for being one of just four U.S. zoos to house giant pandas, and the only zoo to see successful births. The older cub, Mei Lan, is set to return to China early next year as part of the breeding program, leaving behind the youngest cub, Xi Lan, who is only ten months old.
Despite challenging economic times, Kelly assured attendees at the press conference, "We would have done this anyway," reitereting the zoo's dedication to keeping Lun Lun and Yang Yang at Zoo Atlanta. Local resident Nell Mayer expressed her heartfelt sentiments toward the pandas, sharing, "It would break my heart...because it doesn't get any cuter than this.”
These contrasting tales of panda conservation efforts at both Smithsonian and Zoo Atlanta not only highlight the complexity involved with managing these adorable animals but also reflect broader conservation initiatives. With communities rallying to fundraise and support their beloved pandas, the future of these gentle giants continues to be hopeful. Their presence not only serves as joy for the public but also plays integral roles in conservation education and awareness efforts.