Giant pandas are set to return to the National Zoo in Washington, D.C., this year, officials announced Wednesday. In a partnership with the China Wildlife Conservation Association, two 2-year-old pandas, Bao Li and Qing Bao, will arrive at the Smithsonian National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute by the end of the year. This announcement brings immense joy to panda enthusiasts across the country, eagerly anticipating the arrival of these adorable and rare animals.

The return of the pandas is highly anticipated. Qing Bao, a female giant panda, was recently photographed in her habitat at Dujiangyan Base in Sichuan, China, on May 17, 2024, by Roshan Patel of the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute. The arrival of Bao Li and Qing Bao signifies a significant milestone in the ongoing collaboration between the National Zoo and Chinese wildlife authorities.

First Lady Jill Biden, along with National Zoo director Brandie Smith and Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie G. Bunch III, announced the exciting news in a video on Wednesday. They humorously mentioned preparing for two special guests at the White House, adding a light-hearted touch to the announcement. “We can’t wait to celebrate this historic moment here in our nation’s capital. Join us. It’s official! The pandas are coming back to D.C.!” said the First Lady.

Bao Li, whose name means “treasure” and “energetic” in Mandarin Chinese, and Qing Bao, whose name means “green” and “treasure,” were born at the China Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Panda in Sichuan. Bao Li’s mother, Bao Bao, was born at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo in 2013, and his grandparents, Tian Tian and Mei Xiang, lived there from 2000 to 2023, becoming iconic figures during their tenure.

Visitors will be able to see Bao Li and Qing Bao for free at the zoo or watch their playful antics on the panda cam, which will be relaunched when the pandas make their public debut. Brandie Smith described the announcement as a "historic moment." She emphasized that through this partnership, they have increased the panda population, advanced their understanding of panda care, and learned essential strategies for protecting wild pandas and preserving their natural habitats.

The announcement follows the return of Tian Tian, Mei Xiang, and their cub, Xiao Qi Ji, to China last year after the panda loan agreement expired amidst tense U.S.-China relations. Their departure prompted a wave of fans visiting the National Zoo to bid farewell to these cherished animals, who had been major attractions.

The new loan agreement for Bao Li and Qing Bao will last for ten years, underscoring the commitment to panda conservation and international cooperation. The National Zoo and other U.S. zoos are part of a broader breeding and conservation program that has successfully increased the panda population. According to the World Wildlife Fund, the panda population in China has grown from an estimated 1,100 pandas in the 1980s to about 2,000 pandas living in the wild today, with hundreds more in zoos. This progress has reclassified the species from endangered to vulnerable.

San Diego’s zoo is also set to receive two pandas later this year, and San Francisco expects pandas, although no specific timeline has been provided. Meanwhile, Atlanta must return its

four pandas to China this year, reflecting the dynamic nature of these international conservation efforts. The exchange and cooperation between the zoos and wildlife conservation associations underline the global commitment to preserving this vulnerable species. These efforts are crucial for maintaining genetic diversity, studying panda behavior and biology, and raising public awareness about the importance of conservation.

The Smithsonian National Zoo's dedication to panda conservation has a long history. The institution has been at the forefront of breeding programs, veterinary care, and research that have significantly contributed to the understanding and preservation of giant pandas. The arrival of Bao Li and Qing Bao continues this tradition, providing new opportunities for scientific study and public education.

First Lady Jill Biden’s involvement highlights the national significance of this event. By bringing attention to the pandas' arrival, the First Lady helps foster a sense of excitement and community involvement in conservation efforts. Her partnership with National Zoo director Brandie Smith and Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie G. Bunch III demonstrates a united front in promoting wildlife preservation and environmental stewardship.

As the public eagerly awaits the pandas' arrival, the National Zoo is preparing to offer an enriching experience for visitors. The reactivation of the panda cam will allow people worldwide to observe Bao Li and Qing Bao's daily activities, fostering a global connection to these beloved animals. This initiative not only enhances visitor engagement but also serves as an educational tool to promote awareness about the plight of pandas and the efforts needed to ensure their survival.

In summary, the return of giant pandas Bao Li and Qing Bao to the National Zoo in Washington, D.C., marks a significant milestone in international conservation efforts. This partnership with the China Wildlife Conservation Association exemplifies the collaborative spirit necessary to protect and preserve endangered species. The pandas’ arrival is set to captivate and educate the public, reinforcing the importance of conservation initiatives and the ongoing commitment to saving these remarkable creatures from extinction.