Giant pandas Bao Li and Qing Bao depart from the Dujiangyan base of the China Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Panda to Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport, Oct 14, 2024. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]
Giant pandas Bao Li and Qing Bao embarked on a special flight to the National Zoo in Washington, D.C. on Tuesday, marking the beginning of their 10-year stay. Chinese keepers and veterinarians will accompany them to help them acclimatize to their new environment, according to the China Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Panda.
On Monday evening, Bao Li and Qing Bao departed from the Dujiangyan base of the China Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Panda to Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport.
Giant panda Bao Li
Bao Li, a male giant panda, was born in August 2021, while Qing Bao, a female, was born in September 2021. Both pandas have recently turned three years old, displaying lively characteristics and a fondness for climbing, according to the giant panda center.
Earlier this month, the National Zoo in Washington dispatched four keepers and veterinarians to China to participate in the care and disease prevention work for the two giant pandas, in preparation for their journey to the US.
Giant panda Qing Bao
Chinese experts have also conducted multiple assessments in the US on aspects such as the giant pandas' living environment, care management, food supply and health care, as confirmed by the giant panda center.
In anticipation of their arrival, the National Zoo in Washington, under the guidance of Chinese experts, has established a dedicated care team, ensured an abundant food supply and enhanced the living quarters of the giant pandas.
