You’ve probably heard the big news – two new pandas have arrived at the National Zoo from China, causing what can only be described as pandamonium. The pair will be on loan to the zoo for a decade, with a yearly fee of $1 million that will support Chinese panda conservation efforts.
Who Are the Newbies?
The two pandas are Bao Li and Qing Bao, both 3 years old and from a preserve in Chengdu, China. Bao Li is a local boy at heart though. His mom is Bao Bao, who was born at the National Zoo in 2013 before she returned to China. Bao Li and Qing Bao were also picked because they're a good genetic match, a.k.a we might have some panda babies in our future 🫢
Giant pandas Bao Li and Qing Bao, inside the FedEx Panda Express, arrive at Dulles International Airport on Oct. 15, 2024. (Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute)
How Can I See Them?
Bao Li and Qing Bao are expected to make their first public appearance in their new and improved enclosure on Jan. 24, 2025. The zoo is celebrating the occasion with free special events and programs from Jan. 29 to Feb. 9. After that, you can get free zoo tickets via the normal reservation process.
⭐ If you’re a zoo member, you can sign up for a sneak peek from Jan. 10 - 19!
Why The Long Wait?
I know, I know, I want to pinch their cheeks too! The zoo must quarantine the pandas for at least 30 days to lower the risk of them spreading disease. They also need time to adjust to the noise and smells that come with crowds. But don’t worry, the zoo is keeping its socials packed with photos.
Giant panda Bao Li in his habitat at the National Zoo. (Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute)
The Bigger Picture:
The giant pandas are a huge draw for locals and tourists alike. Experts expect an influx of visitors, especially families, to D.C. in the coming months. This means more zoo visitors, but also increased foot traffic for local restaurants, bars, shops, and lodging. Businesses are already adorning their storefronts with panda decor, hoping to cash in on the panda-economy.
