On October 16, Brandy Smith, the director of the Smithsonian National Zoo in Washington, D.C., shared an update on the recently arrived giant pandas “Baoli” and “Qingbao.” They arrived at the zoo just a day earlier and are “doing very well,” having already begun to explore their new surroundings.
After a lengthy 19-hour flight from Chengdu, China, the pandas have embarked on a 10-year stay in the United States. Smith remarked in an interview, “I visited Baoli and Qingbao this morning. Despite their long journey, they are in great shape. Baoli was playing on the climbing structures, while Qingbao was enjoying some bamboo.”
Panda keeper Laurie Thompson provided further insights, explaining that the zoo has prepared a diet comprised of plenty of bamboo, apples, carrots, and specially crafted “panda cakes” made according to the recipe provided by their Chinese caretakers, ensuring it’s similar to what they ate in China. Both pandas are currently eating and sleeping well as they acclimate to their new environment.
Staff noted that the two pandas have very distinct personalities; Baoli is quite lively and enjoys climbing around, while Qingbao is more cautious and takes a careful approach to exploring its new home.
Baoli and Qingbao were born in August and September of 2021, respectively. Baoli’s mother, Bao Bao, was born at the Smithsonian National Zoo, and his grandparents, Tian Tian and Mei Xiang, spent over 20 years at the zoo.
The zoo has announced that Baoli and Qingbao will be officially introduced to the public on January 24, 2024. Before that, the pandas will undergo a minimum 30-day quarantine and will participate in small-scale presentations for volunteers and zoo members beginning in mid-December. Veterinarian James Steeil emphasized that this arrangement is solely for the pandas’ benefit, ensuring they can properly adjust to their new environment.
Smith expressed excitement regarding the arrival of the pandas after nearly a year without them. She noted that pandas hold a “profound significance” for the entire city of Washington, for the National Zoo, and personally for her. Their arrival has brought her “so much joy,” and she can’t wait to learn more about them.
Additionally, Smith highlighted that the conservation and research collaboration between the U.S. and China regarding giant pandas has spanned over 50 years, yielding many accomplishments and enhancing cultural exchange—serving as a “model of success through cooperation.”
