Panda Diplomacy: Bao Li and Qing Bao Arrive at Washington Zoo on 'Panda Express'
October 15, 2024Currently, the pandas are in quarantine to help them acclimate to their new environment, a process expected to last at least 30 days.
The arrival of Bao Li and Qing Bao, two giant pandas from China, at the Washington Zoo marks a significant moment in panda diplomacy between the USA and China.
Traveling on a FedEx Boeing 777 cargo jet, famously dubbed the 'Panda Express,' the pandas were accompanied by their favorite foods and care supplies.
This event echoes the original panda arrival in 1972, which followed President Richard Nixon's landmark visit to China.
During this quarantine period, zoo staff will conduct health checks and learn about the pandas' personalities.
Visitors will have the opportunity to see the pandas starting next Wednesday, with viewing hours set for one hour daily.
The pandas are on a 10-year lease costing $10 million, with funds directed to the China Wildlife and Conservation Association for panda research.
Despite the excitement surrounding their arrival, ethical concerns have been raised about artificial breeding programs and the welfare of individual pandas.
Annalisa Meyer from the National Zoo defended the program, emphasizing that pandas serve as 'insurance against extinction' and that animal welfare remains a priority.
A live camera, known as Panda Cam, has been launched for fans to observe the pandas' activities from anywhere.
Their relocation is part of a broader conservation and research initiative aimed at protecting this endangered species.
The pandas have distinct personalities; Bao Li is energetic and has a large appetite, while Qing Bao is more reserved and often found resting in trees.
Summary based on 32 sources
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Sources
The Guardian • Oct 15, 2024
New pair of pandas arrives from China to Washington after 11-month hiatusTime • Oct 15, 2024
Pandas Arrive in the U.S. Next Stop Is the National ZooCNN • Oct 15, 2024
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China’s newest panda diplomats are being transported to the US | CNN