Giant Pandas Settle into New Home

Ella Bradshaw

Staff Writer

Two new giant pandas made their debut at the National Zoo on Friday, Jan. 24. The pair, Qing Bao and Bao Li come from China, where a previous set of pandas was returned over a year ago after their 10-year loan came to an end. According to USA Today, Qing Bao is a 3-year-old adult female whose name translates to “preciousness and treasure,” describing her value and adoration from the public. Bao Li is a 3-year-old adult male whose name means “vitality and strength,” highlighting his power and activity. The pair arrived in the U.S. in October and are now available for observation to the public.

Qing Bao and Bao Li are currently living at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute in the nation’s capital. The National Zoo commits to the conservation and welfare of global species and shares its company vision of “Humankind unites in support of a biodiverse planet where wildlife and nature thrive.” Their mission is to “save species by using cutting-edge science, sharing knowledge and providing inspirational experiences for our guests,” according to their website.

The zoo was founded in 1889 and is the world’s leading museum and research complex. Entry passes to the zoo are always free. Hours and events for the panda exhibit vary, and since their debut, the pair of pandas have experienced plenty of involvement in exciting events. Just recently, a Kung Fu Panda Film Fest, a Lunar New Year celebration, a District of Panda Day, Panda Fitness with November Project D.C, and a Panda Celebration with the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China took place.

Not only are these pandas being seen as adorable by visitors, but they also serve as an important connection of diplomacy between the U.S. and China. Giant pandas were originally given as a gift from China to the U.S. in 1972, and the tradition has continued since. According to USA Today, this panda exchange is extremely beneficial to the species, as it “encourages reproduction and helps save the giant pandas from extinction.”

Giant pandas have long been at risk of extinction. However, with help from the National Zoo, the species has recovered from the status of “endangered of extinction” to “vulnerable of extinction” over the last fifty years.

There are expected to be less than 2,000 pandas in the wild today, highlighting their vulnerability to extinction, according to USA Today. They can live between 15-20 years and grow four to five feet in height. Pandas typically weigh between 220 and 330 pounds and eat 70 to 100 pounds of bamboo every day. They spend most of their day eating, on average between 10 and 16 hours enjoying a snack. Their natural habitat is in south-central China, but they can thrive happily in the zoo environment if cared for properly.

If you are interested in learning more about giant panda conservation or the efforts of the National Zoo, visit https://nationalzoo.si.com to explore more about the species. While you’re there, check out the Panda Cam and say hello to Qing Bao and Bao Li!