Washington, D.C. Welcomes pandas Back to National Zoo
Washington, D.C. is buzzing with excitement as two giant pandas begin their journey back to the National Zoo. According to reports from the China Wildlife Conservation Society and Chinese state-owned media, Bao Li and Qing Bao, both three years old, are set to arrive almost a year after the last group of pandas left for China. This departure marked the first time in over two decades that Washington, D.C. was home to no giant pandas.
A Long-Awaited Return
When the last pandas left, there was uncertainty regarding when or if pandas would return to D.C. However, in May, zoo officials announced the good news that China would send a pair of young pandas. Bao Li is a male, while Qing Bao is female, but their exact arrival date was not disclosed until now.
On Sunday night, Bao Li and Qing Bao began their trip, leaving the China Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Panda in a special vehicle. They were transported to Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport to board a flight to the D.C. area. A spokesperson for the National Zoo didn’t comment immediately about their arrival but later confirmed via social media: “Something giant is coming to Washington, D.C. via the @FedEx Panda Express! The Zoo will be closed to the public tomorrow, Oct. 15.”
Celebrating Conservation and Heritage
The pandas will be housed in D.C. under a new ten-year breeding and research agreement between the U.S. and China. This means they are not just adorable attractions; they are also part of important conservation efforts. Interestingly, Bao Li has D.C. roots—he is the son of Bao Bao, who was born at the National Zoo in 2013.
The director of the National Zoo, Brandie Smith, said the arrival of these pandas showcases the success of the zoo’s giant panda program. Bao Li, which means “treasure” and “energetic” in Mandarin, hails from a lineage that includes grandparent pandas Mei Xiang and Tian Tian, who lived at the zoo for approximately 23 years until they were sent back to China last fall.
Qing Bao’s name translates to “green” and “treasure.” She became the ambassador for the ninth World Wildlife Day at just a year old, underscoring her special status.
Exciting Plans Ahead
FedEx is handling the pandas’ transportation via its “Panda Express” service. After their arrival, the pandas will be quarantined for at least 30 days before they can settle into their new home and make their public debut. The National Zoo has promised to announce the public viewing date once the animal care team believes the pandas are ready.
The zoo’s commitment to panda conservation includes a yearly payment of $1 million to the China Wildlife Conservation Association to support research and conservation initiatives. This funding is entirely separate from federal funds. The National Zoo aims to raise $25 million to renovate the panda exhibit, including maintaining the Giant Panda Cam, along with other expenses related to the pandas’ care.
Renovation and Preparations
The zoo is also working on a variety of improvements to the panda habitat, including new climbing structures, water features, and enhanced air quality and temperature control systems. Although the pandas in D.C. have departed before, new arrivals signal the return of panda diplomacy—the longstanding friendship between China and the U.S.
Pandas as American Icons
Pandas first came to the National Zoo in the 1970s and have since become symbols of the city. From appearing on Metro fare cards to being celebrated in various forms, their cultural impact is undeniable. Tian Tian and Mei Xiang were popular figures, producing offspring that captured the hearts of many.
The pandas are more than just animals; they are bridges between cultures. As one official noted, many adults who cherished pandas as children now look forward to sharing the experience with their little ones. The hope is that the new arrivals will create another generation of memories centered around these beloved creatures.
A Homecoming
With Bao Li and Qing Bao’s arrival, the National Zoo is set to renew its legacy as an important conservation center. These charming creatures will not just enchant visitors but also play a crucial role in panda conservation efforts across the globe. Their journey back to D.C. has rekindled the excitement for pandas and reinforced the bond between cultures.
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
